Where you live can make or break your budget. According to the Council for Community and Economic Research, everyday costs like housing, groceries, and utilities vary wildly across the U.S.—and in some states, prices are downright brutal. Hawaii tops the charts, with living costs nearly double the national average, while the fifteenth-most expensive state still sits more than 11% above normal. From energy costs to real estate, location has never mattered more when it comes to your wallet.
15. Arizona | Cost of Living Score: 111.5 – 11.5% Higher Than National Average
- Overall Cost of Living Score: 111.5 (11.5% higher than national average)
- Groceries: 101.1 (1.1% higher than national average)
- Housing: 131.9 (31.9% higher than national average)
- Utilities: 105.3 (5.3% higher than national average)
- Transportation: 104.4 (4.4% higher than national average)
- Health: 92.7 (7.3% lower than national average)
- Miscellaneous: 105.2 (5.2% higher than national average)
Arizona’s overall index of 111.5 means living here costs about 11.5% more than the U.S. average. Housing is by far the biggest factor—31.9% above national norms—while health care runs below average. Groceries, utilities, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses all sit a few points higher than the norm.
Arizona – Sun Belt Growth and Urban‑Desert Blend
Arizona is home to roughly 7.28 million people, with a median household income of $76,872, according to the U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts. This income helps offset higher living costs but still leaves many families stretching budgets in hot markets like Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Flagstaff. Per capita income of $40,736 places Arizona near the midpoint nationally, while rapid population growth continues to fuel demand for housing and services.
The typical Arizona home is valued at $430,710, per the Zillow Home Value Index, down 2.7% over the past year yet still 31.9% above the national average. Sky‑high demand along the I‑10 corridor and in retirement hotspots keeps prices elevated, even as outlying areas offer more affordable options. Arizona’s economy blends high‑tech firms, copper mining, health care, tourism, and government jobs—sectors outlined in the Economy of Arizona—providing both stability and pockets of rapid growth.
14. Oregon | Cost of Living Score: 112.0 – 12.0% Higher Than National Average
- Overall Cost of Living Score: 112.0 (12.0% higher than national average)
- Groceries: 106.2 (6.2% higher than national average)
- Housing: 133.3 (33.3% higher than national average)
- Utilities: 89.7 (10.3% lower than national average)
- Transportation: 118.6 (18.6% higher than national average)
- Health: 109.7 (9.7% higher than national average)
- Miscellaneous: 101.1 (1.1% higher than national average)
Oregon’s overall living costs sit about 12 percent above the U.S. average, driven largely by high housing prices in urban centers like Portland. Grocery bills run modestly above average, reflecting the state’s reliance on shipped‐in goods outside major farm regions. Meanwhile, utility costs remain around 10 percent below average thanks to abundant hydroelectric power and energy efficiency programs.
Oregon – Outdoor Lifestyle and Tech Growth
The median household income in Oregon is $80,426, according to the U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts. This income helps many cover the state’s high home values, which Zillow pegs at $507,256 in its Home Value Index. Rising demand near tech hubs like Hillsboro and Beaverton has pushed prices sharply upward over the past decade.
Oregon is one of only five states with no sales tax, though personal income tax rates top out at 9.9 percent, offsetting lost revenue. Shoppers save at the register, but higher payroll withholding balances state budgets. A booming tech sector—Intel employs over 20,000 people in the “Silicon Forest”—and outdoor recreation both shape where and how people live in Oregon.
13. Maine | Cost of Living Score: 112.1 – 12.1% Higher Than National Average
- Overall Cost of Living Score: 112.1 (12.1% higher than national average)
- Groceries: 101.5 (1.5% higher than national average)
- Housing: 128.7 (28.7% higher than national average)
- Utilities: 111.0 (11.0% higher than national average)
- Transportation: 107.5 (7.5% higher than national average)
- Health: 113.7 (13.7% higher than national average)
- Miscellaneous: 104.5 (4.5% higher than national average)
Maine’s index shows housing costs nearly 29 percent above average, making shelter the biggest budget item for most households. Health care expenses also exceed the national norm, in part due to a dispersed rural population. Groceries and transportation track only slightly above average, reflecting local agricultural output and well‑maintained road systems.
Maine – Coastal Living and Retiree Magnet
The median home value in Maine stands at $266,400, while median household income is $71,773, per the U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts. That income level lags behind the U.S. median by nearly 9 percent, tightening affordability in hotspots like Portland and Midcoast seaside towns. Still, Maine’s small population density helps limit urban sprawl and keeps community character intact.
Tourism drives local economies, with visitor spending surpassing $8.4 billion in 2023, according to the Maine Office of Tourism’s annual report. That influx supports 131,000 jobs in lodging, dining, and guiding services. Meanwhile, Maine’s lobster catch reached 86.1 million pounds in 2024, anchoring coastal livelihoods despite shifting marine conditions reported by NOAA Fisheries.
12. Rhode Island | Cost of Living Score: 112.2 – 12.2% Higher Than National Average
- Overall Cost of Living Score: 112.2 (12.2% higher than national average)
- Groceries: 101.9 (1.9% higher than national average)
- Housing: 113.4 (13.4% higher than national average)
- Utilities: 140.0 (40.0% higher than national average)
- Transportation: 96.3 (3.7% lower than national average)
- Health: 104.6 (4.6% higher than national average)
- Miscellaneous: 114.2 (14.2% higher than national average)
Rhode Island’s small footprint belies significant cost pressures: utilities top out at 40 percent above the national average, driven by infrastructure upgrades in aging urban grids. Housing and miscellaneous expenses also run high, though daily travel costs remain below average thanks to compact city layouts and transit options. Grocery bills climb modestly, reflecting both local farms and imported produce prices.
Rhode Island – Small Size, Big Costs
With just 400 miles of coastline, Rhode Island packs a median home value of $368,800 alongside a median household income of $86,372, per the U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts. That income level cushions some costs but leaves little slack in markets like Newport and Providence. High utility rates—among the nation’s steepest—stem from ongoing grid modernization and winter heating demands.
Tourism injects $5.6 billion into the state economy, supporting over 86,000 jobs, according to the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation’s 2023 visitor report. Historic mansions in Newport attract nearly half a million visitors annually, boosting seasonal rentals and local services. Steady event calendars—from jazz festivals to coastal regattas—keep smaller towns busy year‑round.
11. Connecticut | Cost of Living Score: 112.3 – 12.3% Higher Than National Average
- Overall Cost of Living Score: 112.3 (12.3% higher than national average)
- Groceries: 102.6 (2.6% higher than national average)
- Housing: 117.2 (17.2% higher than national average)
- Utilities: 135.9 (35.9% higher than national average)
- Transportation: 104.8 (4.8% higher than national average)
- Health: 109.9 (9.9% higher than national average)
- Miscellaneous: 109.0 (9.0% higher than national average)
Connecticut residents pay nearly 36 percent more for utilities than the national average, driven by older housing stock and cold winters. Housing costs add another 17 percent premium, especially in Fairfield County suburbs. Groceries and transport also contribute to an overall living cost about 12 percent above average.
Connecticut – Suburban Hub and Affluent Pockets
The median home value in Connecticut is $435,982, and median household income is $93,760, per the U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts. That leaves many families stretching budgets in towns like Westport and New Canaan, where limited inventory pushes prices higher. The state’s strong job market in finance and insurance—16.4 percent of GDP—also attracts high earners seeking suburban comfort.
Real estate and professional services combined make up nearly one‑third of Connecticut’s economy, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. Income inequality is among the nation’s highest, with wealthy coastal towns contrasting sharply with urban centers like Hartford. Investment in transit-oriented development around New Haven and Stamford may ease pressure but has yet to significantly lower home prices.
10. New Hampshire | Cost of Living Score: 112.6 – 12.6% Higher Than National Average
- Overall Cost of Living Score: 112.6 (12.6% higher than national average)
- Groceries: 99.9 (0.1% lower than national average)
- Housing: 117.5 (17.5% higher than national average)
- Utilities: 112.4 (12.4% higher than national average)
- Transportation: 105.6 (5.6% higher than national average)
- Health: 104.1 (4.1% higher than national average)
- Miscellaneous: 117.1 (17.1% higher than national average)
New Hampshire’s living costs exceed the U.S. average by about 12.6 percent, with housing and miscellaneous expenses leading the way. Groceries remain almost exactly at the national norm, helping offset some higher bills in other categories. Transportation costs edge up modestly, reflecting both rural routes and commuter traffic into Boston suburbs.
New Hampshire – No Income Tax, High Housing Demand
The median home value in New Hampshire is $367,200, while the median household income is $95,628, per the U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts. This income level makes the state among the top five in household earnings, yet housing runs 17.5 percent above national average. Limited developable land in scenic areas keeps supply tight, driving up prices.
New Hampshire abolished its broad‑based income tax and state sales tax in 2025, according to the Tax Foundation. To fund schools and services, it relies heavily on property taxes, which rank among the highest in the country. High quality public schools and low crime rates continue to draw families despite steep housing costs.
9. Washington | Cost of Living Score: 114.2 – 14.2% Higher Than National Average
- Overall Cost of Living Score: 114.2 (14.2% higher than national average)
- Groceries: 105.6 (5.6% higher than national average)
- Housing: 126.9 (26.9% higher than national average)
- Utilities: 92.6 (7.4% lower than national average)
- Transportation: 123.7 (23.7% higher than national average)
- Health: 118.1 (18.1% higher than national average)
- Miscellaneous: 109.9 (9.9% higher than national average)
Washington’s overall living costs are about 14% above the U.S. average, with housing and transportation as the biggest drivers. Utilities remain notably cheaper than in most states, thanks to abundant hydropower. Everyday expenses like groceries and health care also run above the national norm.
Washington – Tech Hub and Outdoor Appeal
Washington’s median household income of $87,705 and median home value of $549,300 come from the U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts. Strong wages at tech giants like Microsoft and Amazon help many afford costly homes in the Seattle metro. Rural areas, by contrast, offer lower housing prices but fewer job options.
Outdoor tourism around Mount Rainier and Olympic National Park supports a large service sector, pushing up local costs seasonally. With no state income tax, revenue comes from sales and business taxes, which can drive higher retail prices. Steady growth along the I‑5 corridor continues to shape where people live and work.
8. Vermont | Cost of Living Score: 114.4 – 14.4% Higher Than National Average
- Overall Cost of Living Score: 114.4 (14.4% higher than national average)
- Groceries: 106.2 (6.2% higher than national average)
- Housing: 129.7 (29.7% higher than national average)
- Utilities: 112.6 (12.6% higher than national average)
- Transportation: 95.8 (4.2% lower than national average)
- Health: 111.4 (11.4% higher than national average)
- Miscellaneous: 111.1 (11.1% higher than national average)
Vermont’s living costs run about 14% above the U.S. average, largely due to high housing and utility expenses. Transportation is one bright spot at slightly below average costs, thanks to compact towns and well‑maintained roads. Groceries and health care also cost more than in most states.
Vermont – Rural Charm and Energy Upgrades
With a median household income of $68,905 and a median home value of $341,100, according to the U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts, Vermont faces affordability challenges. High prices in towns like Burlington contrast with cheaper mountain and valley communities. Limited land for new construction keeps home values elevated statewide.
Vermont generates over 99% of its electricity from renewable sources, per the Vermont Department of Public Service, but those infrastructure costs show up on bills. Winter recreation and fall foliage tourism bring seasonal income and higher local prices. Property taxes fund small‑town schools, adding to homeowner expenses.
7. New Jersey | Cost of Living Score: 114.6 – 14.6% Higher Than National Average
- Overall Cost of Living Score: 114.6 (14.6% higher than national average)
- Groceries: 104.2 (4.2% higher than national average)
- Housing: 136.9 (36.9% higher than national average)
- Utilities: 100.6 (0.6% higher than national average)
- Transportation: 105.6 (5.6% higher than national average)
- Health: 107.5 (7.5% higher than national average)
- Miscellaneous: 107.5 (7.5% higher than national average)
New Jersey’s cost index sits nearly 15% above the national average, driven chiefly by sky‑high housing costs. Groceries, transportation, and health care also exceed average rates. Utilities remain roughly in line with the national norm.
New Jersey – Dense Suburbs and High Property Taxes
The median household income in New Jersey is $85,751 and the median home value is $405,600, per the U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts. Proximity to New York City and Philadelphia fuels strong demand in commuter towns. Limited developable land in northern and central counties keeps prices elevated.
Homeowners pay some of the nation’s highest property taxes—around $8,800 annually, according to the Tax Policy Center. Industries such as pharmaceuticals and finance offer top wages that help offset living costs. Coastal communities also draw vacationers and retirees, adding to local housing pressure.
6. Maryland | Cost of Living Score: 115.3 – 15.3% Higher Than National Average
- Overall Cost of Living Score: 115.3 (15.3% higher than national average)
- Groceries: 107.1 (7.1% higher than national average)
- Housing: 135.8 (35.8% higher than national average)
- Utilities: 110.3 (10.3% higher than national average)
- Transportation: 101.7 (1.7% higher than national average)
- Health: 100.9 (0.9% higher than national average)
- Miscellaneous: 108.9 (8.9% higher than national average)
Maryland’s living costs are roughly 15% above the national average, with housing and utilities as the main contributors. Groceries and miscellaneous expenses also run higher, while transportation stays close to average. Health care costs barely exceed the national norm.
Maryland – D.C. Suburbs and Naval Presence
Maryland’s median household income is $94,384 and median home value is $369,600, according to the U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts. Federal agencies and defense contractors in the D.C. suburbs drive strong wages and housing demand. In contrast, rural counties on the Eastern Shore remain more affordable.
The state hosts major employers like the National Institutes of Health and Lockheed Martin, anchoring jobs in biotech and aerospace. Chesapeake Bay tourism and seafood harvests support local economies along the coast. Proximity to multiple military bases also influences housing and retail costs.
5. New York | Cost of Living Score: 123.3 – 23.3% Higher Than National Average
- Overall Cost of Living Score: 123.3 (23.3% higher than national average)
- Groceries: 103.9 (3.9% higher than national average)
- Housing: 168.0 (68.0% higher than national average)
- Utilities: 99.7 (0.3% lower than national average)
- Transportation: 106.8 (6.8% higher than national average)
- Health: 108.9 (8.9% higher than national average)
- Miscellaneous: 106.9 (6.9% higher than national average)
New York’s overall cost index tops 123, meaning living here costs nearly a quarter more than the U.S. average. Housing is the largest driver, at 68% above average due to New York City’s market. Other categories like groceries and health add to the premium, while utilities remain close to the mean.
New York – City Center and Upstate Contrast
New York’s median household income is $72,108 and median home value is $375,400, per the U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts. In New York City, rents and home prices far exceed state averages, reflecting global demand. Upstate regions offer more affordable housing but also fewer high‑paying jobs.
Wall Street and the financial sector anchor New York City’s economy, pushing wages and local prices higher. Upstate areas rely more on manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism around the Finger Lakes and Adirondacks. State income and property taxes further contribute to living expenses in both urban and rural areas.
4. Alaska | Cost of Living Score: 123.8 – 23.8% Higher Than National Average
- Overall Cost of Living Score: 123.8 (23.8% higher than national average)
- Groceries: 127.1 (27.1% higher than national average)
- Housing: 118.0 (18.0% higher than national average)
- Utilities: 152.8 (52.8% higher than national average)
- Transportation: 114.3 (14.3% higher than national average)
- Health: 150.0 (50.0% higher than national average)
- Miscellaneous: 118.9 (18.9% higher than national average)
Alaska’s overall cost index of 123.8 places it nearly 24 percent above the national norm. Utility and health care expenses are the steepest burdens, each running about 50 percent above average. Groceries and transportation also cost significantly more, reflecting the state’s remote location and supply challenges.
Alaska – Remote Wilderness and Resource Wealth
The median household income in Alaska is $83,938, according to the U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts, which helps offset some of the higher living costs. The state’s median home value is $345,200, per the Zillow Home Value Index, reflecting limited housing stock and high construction costs in isolated areas. Hunting, fishing and tourism draw visitors and support local businesses, but also push up prices in towns where access is seasonal.
Alaska’s economy relies heavily on oil, gas and mining, with energy revenues funding state services that would otherwise require higher taxes. According to the Alaska Department of Revenue, royalties from the Trans-Alaska Pipeline provide billions annually to the state treasury. Yet shipping fuel and goods across vast distances remains costly, so utilities and groceries stay among the nation’s highest.
3. California | Cost of Living Score: 144.8 – 44.8% Higher Than National Average
- Overall Cost of Living Score: 144.8 (44.8% higher than national average)
- Groceries: 111.7 (11.7% higher than national average)
- Housing: 208.7 (108.7% higher than national average)
- Utilities: 139.8 (39.8% higher than national average)
- Transportation: 136.7 (36.7% higher than national average)
- Health: 107.7 (7.7% higher than national average)
- Miscellaneous: 115.3 (15.3% higher than national average)
California’s living costs exceed the U.S. average by nearly 45 percent, with housing more than doubling typical prices. Transportation and utilities also contribute large premiums, while groceries and health care cost significantly more than in most states. Miscellaneous expenses—the catch‑all for entertainment and personal care—run about 15 percent above average.
California – Innovation Economy and Coastal Living
The state’s median household income is $84,097, according to the U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts, yet the median home value of $620,000, per the Zillow Home Value Index, makes ownership a challenge for many. Coastal metros like San Francisco and Los Angeles see the highest prices, driven by tech wealth and limited zoning. Inland regions offer somewhat lower costs but still run above national averages due to strong demand and development.
Silicon Valley remains the epicenter of innovation, with companies like Google and Apple paying top salaries that ripple through local economies. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, California has one of the highest concentrations of STEM jobs nationwide. High wildfire risk and water scarcity also raise insurance and infrastructure costs, adding to overall living expenses.
2. Massachusetts | Cost of Living Score: 145.9 – 45.9% Higher Than National Average
- Overall Cost of Living Score: 145.9 (45.9% higher than national average)
- Groceries: 104.4 (4.4% higher than national average)
- Housing: 218.8 (118.8% higher than national average)
- Utilities: 150.0 (50.0% higher than national average)
- Transportation: 109.5 (9.5% higher than national average)
- Health: 125.7 (25.7% higher than national average)
- Miscellaneous: 115.3 (15.3% higher than national average)
Massachusetts residents pay nearly 46 percent more than average for everyday living, buoyed by very high housing and utility costs. Health care—which includes some of the nation’s top hospitals—runs over 25 percent above average. Groceries and transportation add modestly to the overall premium.
Massachusetts – Education Hub and Biotech Center
The median household income is $93,029 and median home value is $576,700, according to the U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts. Cambridge and Boston drive much of the state’s high prices, with demand from universities like Harvard and MIT keeping rents elevated. Surrounding suburbs also face shortages, as graduates and professionals vie for limited housing.
Biotech and life sciences account for a large share of the economy, with clusters in Kendall Square and the Longwood Medical Area. According to the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center, the industry generated $25 billion in economic activity in 2023. Public investment in transit and renewable energy further raises infrastructure costs, reflected in higher utility rates.
1. Hawaii | Cost of Living Score: 186.9 – 86.9% Higher Than National Average
- Overall Cost of Living Score: 186.9 (86.9% higher than national average)
- Groceries: 130.4 (30.4% higher than national average)
- Housing: 310.0 (210.0% higher than national average)
- Utilities: 198.0 (98.0% higher than national average)
- Transportation: 133.3 (33.3% higher than national average)
- Health: 121.1 (21.1% higher than national average)
- Miscellaneous: 130.5 (30.5% higher than national average)
Hawaii’s overall living costs are the highest in the nation, at nearly 187 percent of the U.S. average. Housing is particularly extreme, more than triple the national norm, driven by scarce land and strong demand. Utilities, groceries and transportation also carry steep premiums due to import costs and island geography.
Hawaii – Island Life and Tourism Reliance
The median household income in Hawaii is $88,857, while the median home value is $788,300, according to the U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts and the Zillow Home Value Index. Limited developable land and strict building regulations keep housing scarce and expensive across all islands. Most residents rely on a mix of local wages and family networks to afford high rents and home prices.
Tourism drives two‑thirds of the state’s economy, with 9.5 million visitors spending $18 billion in 2023, per the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau. Shipping goods over the Pacific adds about $877 in extra costs per household each month, according to the Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism. This reliance on imports and tourism keeps everyday prices among the nation’s highest.
