12 Most Expensive US Cities That Will Drain Your Wallet
People say the biggest obstacle to traveling is money, and it’s no secret that some cities in the US are notorious for their high prices. Daily necessities and travel expenses in these cities can add up so quickly that it makes it difficult for travelers to stick to a budget.
According to the cost of living indexes through mid-2024, if you plan on visiting any of these 12 most expensive US cities, be prepared to spend more than you might have anticipated. From hotel prices to dining out and entertainment, these cities are known for being some of the most costly destinations in the country and even the world.
12. Denver, CO
- Cost of Living Index: 76.6
According to Numbeo, Denver, the Mile High City, ranks 12th on this list because it is as expensive as it is beautiful. The city has beautiful mountain views and enough outdoor activities to keep you busy year-round.
Brace yourself for the accommodation prices here that can make your bank account weep. Craft beer lovers flock to Denver, but those IPAs come at a premium and it’s the same story withsame goes for it’s amazing food scene.
On the bright side, the sunsets over the Rockies are priceless.
11. Miami, FL
- Cost of Living Index: 77.0
The sun is hot, and the beaches are even hotter in Miami. This city is a melting pot of cultures with sophisticated nightlife and beautiful coastlines.
But be warned: The cost of that beachfront condo usually comes at a high price. The nightlife is legendary, but VIP bottle service can cost more than your monthly rent.
10. Tampa, FL
- Cost of Living Index: 78.0
The Tampa Bay area has exploded in recent years. The city is a hotspot for sports fans, with the Buccaneers, Rays, and Lightning calling it home. Known for its beautiful bay and bustling downtown, it’sits nice weather comes at a cost.
9. Portland, OR
- Cost of Living Index: 78.4
The City of Roses has a saying, “Keep Portland Weird.” With its greenery, beautiful parks, and hipster vibe, Portland has become a popular destination.
But with popularity comes higher prices. The city’s food scene may be top-notch but expect to pay a pretty penny for your farm-to-table meal. If you’re a coffee drinker, those artisanal lattes add up.
8. San Diego, CA
- Cost of Living Index: 79.8
San Diego may have perfect weather and beautiful beaches, but it also has a high cost of living. The city is home to many military bases and major universities, making it a desirable place to live for young professionals and families.
Surfing might be free, but living close to the beach isn’t. And forget about owning your own home, as the median home price in San Diego goes for just above a million dollars.
7. Chicago, IL
- Cost of Living Index: 80.2
The Windy City will blow your travel budget away. Chicago is a bustling metropolis famous for its deep-dish pizza and amazing architecture.
Accommodation in the city can be quite steep, particularly in prime areas like downtown or near the waterfront. Although public transportation is generally affordable, expenses can still surprise those unfamiliar with the city’s layout if you factor in ride-shares or taxis.
6. Los Angeles, CA
- Cost of Living Index: 80.9
After living in the City of Angels for a few years, it really is a sprawling playground of opportunity and expense.
Housing is notoriously high, with even cozy hostels costing over $50 a night. Traffic is legendary, so you’ll spend a lot on gas but will have to get a rental car. If you’re eyeing innovative health foods, expect them to be pricey.
At least the weather is consistently perfect.
5. Seattle, WA
- Cost of Living Index: 81.5
Seattle is known for its coffee culture, waterfront views, and the iconic Space Needle. It’s also home to some of the largest tech companies in the world, such as Amazon and Microsoft.
The city has seen rapid growth in recent years, leading to sky-high housing costs, especially in trendy neighborhoods. The coffee and food culture is strong, but definitely comes at a price.
4. Washington, DC
- Cost of Living Index: 82.5
Even though the Smithsonian Museums are free, traveling in the nation’s capital comes with a hefty cost. As the hub of history, politics, and expenses, residents and tourists alike must budget accordingly.
As with the other cities on this list, finding accommodations will be your biggest expense. Having experienced this myself, the parking is an absolute nightmare. You’ll have to budget parking fees or risk an expensive parking ticket.
3. Boston, MA
- Cost of Living Index: 85.8
Thanks to the university populations of Harvard, MIT, and Boston College, Boston offers a youthful atmosphere and your fix for history and sports. With a high concentration of students and young professionals, Boston’s housing costs are among the highest in the country.
Eating out or grabbing a beer after visiting the historic district can quickly add to your bill. You’llIf you want to save on transportation costs, you’ll have to budget for a lot of walking or taking public transportation.
2. San Francisco, CA
- Cost of Living Index: 90.5
San Francisco is famously known for the Golden Gate Bridge and Silicon Valley, but it’s also infamous for having one of the highest living costs in the United States.
A diverse tech industry with companies like Google, Facebook, and Twitter has driven up housing prices to staggering heights. Expect to pay over $3,000 a month for rent on average. This all translates to astronomical hotel prices, dining out, and entertainment in general.
1. New York, NY
- Cost of Living Index: 100.0
New York City consistently ranks as one of the most expensive cities in the world, let alone the US. With iconic landmarks like Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty, this city attracts millions of tourists each year.
Prices are inflated the moment you step foot in New York City, the ultimate wallet drainer with a perfect cost of living index of 100.0. This means you’re paying a premium for everything.
Rent is sky-high, especially in Manhattan, and parking garages charge a frightening per-day fee. Broadway shows will set you back an average of $150 per head, and unless you’re eating a slice of NY pizza, don’t expect your after-show meal to be cheap either.
Catherine, a seasoned travel writer, has lived in 4 different states and explored 36 states and 28 national parks. After spending two years embracing van life, she's now dedicated to sharing her vast knowledge of day trips across America. Catherine's other works has been referenced in major publications like MSN, Self, and TripSavvy.
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