As the cost of living continues to climb, some states are becoming too expensive for many people to live in. Let’s explore the 18 most expensive states in America where living costs can take a considerable toll on your budget.
California
The state of California is well known for being crazy expensive. RentCafe tells us that the cost of living there is 38% higher than the national average. The state’s housing market, particularly in cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles, is among the priciest in the country, too.
New York
Rent and property prices in New York, especially New York City (and even more specifically Manhattan and Brooklyn) are among the highest in the United States. Moreover, costs for dining out, transportation, and entertainment can quickly add up, making it a challenging place for many to afford.
Hawaii
The remote location of Hawaii contributes to its high cost of living, as importing goods to the islands drives up prices on groceries and other essentials. Honolulu is a particularly expensive place to live right now. Sadly, the state’s natural beauty comes with a hefty price tag for its residents.
Massachusetts
The Boston area of Massachusetts is known for its high living costs because the housing market is competitive, and prices are steep. Additionally, healthcare and education expenses in this state are among the highest in the nation. These factors make Massachusetts a pricey place to call home.
Maryland
Maryland’s proximity to Washington, D.C., inflates its cost of living, so housing prices, especially in suburban areas like Bethesda and Silver Spring, are quite high. The costs for groceries, transportation, and healthcare are pretty high in this state as well.
Connecticut
Cities like Stamford and Greenwich in Connecticut have some of the priciest real estate in the country, namely because it’s a desirable place to live. You’ll also find that the cost of utilities and healthcare in Connecticut is notably high, adding to the financial burden on residents.
Alaska
Despite its remote location, Alaska has surprisingly high living costs. The need to import goods results in elevated prices for groceries and other essentials. Housing can also be expensive, particularly in cities like Anchorage, and healthcare costs are also affected by this remoteness.
New Jersey
The high property taxes in New Jersey are the main worry for residents who live there. Housing prices in areas close to New York City, such as Hoboken and Jersey City, are particularly steep for obvious reasons. Additionally, transportation, groceries, and healthcare costs are higher than the national average.
Washington
Washington state, especially the Seattle area, is recognized for its high cost of living. Housing prices have surged in recent years, making it one of the most expensive markets in the country. Along with housing, expenses for groceries, transportation, and healthcare also add up, making Washington a costly place to live.
Colorado
Healthcare and transportation costs in Colorado are higher than average, and this contributes to the state’s overall expensive nature. Plus, the housing market is competitive, driving prices up, so cities such as Denver and Boulder are expensive places to be now.
Oregon
The rise of living costs in Oregon, especially the Portland area, has been on the up for some time now. Housing prices have increased, making it one of the pricier markets on the West Coast. As well as that, the cost of groceries and transportation in Oregon is higher than the national average.
Vermont
Vermont’s rural nature means prices for goods and services are higher, causing some people to struggle. This, combined with the fact that property taxes in Vermont are among the highest in the country, contributes to the overall cost of living.
Rhode Island
Housing prices are steep in Rhode Island, and property taxes are significant, a deadly combo for the wallet. The cost of groceries and healthcare in Rhode Island is higher than the national average so that certainly doesn’t help people living there either.
New Hampshire
Housing and healthcare expenses are the two main factors contributing to New Hampshire’s expensive nature. Property prices in cities like Manchester and Nashua are among the highest in the region, and the cost of utilities and groceries adds to the overall expense of living in the state.
Illinois
Illinois, especially the Chicago area, has a high cost of living. Housing prices in the city and surrounding suburbs are very steep, making them unaffordable for people. Moreover, expenses for transportation, groceries, and healthcare in Illinois contribute to its overall high cost of living.
Virginia
Virginia’s proximity to Washington, D.C., drives up its cost of living, and as a result, many have been priced out. This is especially true in Northern Virginia, particularly in cities like Arlington and Alexandria, which are among the most expensive places to live in the country.
Pennsylvania
Expenses for transportation, groceries, and healthcare are key factors contributing to the overall expense of living in Pennsylvania. In addition, house prices are on the rise, so it’s a pricey place to live in now.
Minnesota
Minnesota’s cost of living is high, particularly in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. Housing prices have increased and the cost of healthcare and groceries is now higher than the national average. All of this together makes this state a lot more expensive than it used to be.
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