Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to make a purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. See my disclosure for more info.
How far a dollar goes depends on where you live. For example, if you live in Mississippi, you can expect to pay about $3.09 for a gallon of gas. But a gallon of gas may cost about $5.40 if you live in California. This is because some states have the highest living expenses, making everyday necessities significantly more expensive. So why do people choose to live in these costly states?
It could be because of job prospects or simply because of the beauty of a specific state. Many stay in the place where they grew up to remain near their families and friends. If you’re considering moving to another state, looking at the cost of living is important.
We’ve curated a list of some states with the highest cost of living to help you make a decision about where to move.
Hawaii
Hawaii is an island paradise with prices to match. You can expect to pay about $858,100 for a medium home, partly because of the high demand and limited options available. Even groceries are expensive as most have to be shipped in, and the consumer always pays more because of that.
California
Homes in the Golden State are almost as expensive as those in Hawaii, and you can expect to pay about $843,300 for a medium home. However, California is the largest and one of the most beautiful states, which is why so many people choose to call it home.
Alaska
Alaska has it all if you’re looking for natural beauty and wide open spaces. Alaska is the largest state in the U.S.; the average medium Alaskan home can cost about $354,560. However, because the population is very widespread, the cost of shipping groceries and other goods across the state is very high. Healthcare is also very high in Alaska. It’s the highest in the U.S.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts is one of the most expensive states to live in, partly because of the higher cost of housing because of the lack of single-family homes in the state. Of course, location is a factor, but you can expect to pay about $612,500 for a medium home. Massachusetts also has some of the highest energy rates in the U.S.
Oregon
Oregon has seen an economic and population boost over the last few decades as many people move there for jobs in the tech industry. However, the housing supply has struggled to keep up because of the growth, which means rent is high. If you plan on purchasing a home, you can expect to pay about $485,700.
New Hampshire
A wealthy New England state, New Hampshire boasts the 11th highest household income in the U.S. However, things cost more in affluent areas, and New Hampshire is no exception. You can expect to pay about $495,000 for a medium home and more for utilities than in many other states.
Vermont
Much of Vermont’s wealth comes from residents of more prosperous neighboring states like Connecticut, New York, and Massachusetts, who have a second home in Vermont or vacation there. However, this drives up the cost of services, goods, and property, and you can expect to pay around $339,000 for a medium-sized home.
Washington
Because of the large technology industry, mainly around Seattle, Washington has experienced substantial economic growth. However, the need for housing has created one of the country’s most expensive real estate markets. You can expect to pay about $550,000 for a medium home.
New York
New York is one of the most expensive states in the U.S. partly because of the number of people who live in and around New York City. The cost to purchase a home is about $460,800, but few single-family homes are available. Most people choose to rent, and rent is incredibly high. The average rent for a small, 700-square-foot apartment in Manhattan can cost up to $4,600 a month.
Connecticut
With many western counties considered suburbs of New York City, Connecticut is one of the wealthiest states in the U.S. Many residents commute to the city for work and then return to their quiet neighborhoods in the evening. However, high income means high prices, and the average price for a medium home in the state is around $393,800. Utility costs are also higher than in most other states.
Rhode Island
Even though it’s a small state, the cost of living in Rhode Island is relatively high. Housing costs are well above average, with a medium home costing about $451,850. Rent can also be high, especially in cities like Newport and Providence. Utility prices are also high in Rhode Island, and you can expect to pay over 20% above the national average in some places.
Maryland
Maryland is a beautiful Mid-Atlantic state with plenty of waterways and fishing opportunities. A medium home costs about $486,680, and many residents own their own homes. Rent can also be quite high, depending on the area. Utility costs are also high, with average utility bills costing about $450 a month in some areas.
10 Delightful Things Kids Naively Believe to Be True
Sometimes, society seems to force children to grow up too quickly. Some parents even say their children understand the world better than they do. But during that magical window of life, kids make hilariously naive assumptions that become beliefs over time. What kind of things did you take as fact as a child? Here are ten things kids still believe are true.
16 Coolest Small Towns in the U.S. You’ve Never Heard Of
One of my favorite things about this country is the differences in each state. A cross-country road trip can take you from the mountains to the desert, coast, and swampland, with each region representing its unique charm and culture. I’m an avid road tripper and have spent some time in these small towns. They left their mark on me in the best way possible.
Housing Price Drop Likely In these 20 Cities
The volatility of the real estate market can frustrate first-time home buyers and investors alike. However, signs lead many to believe 2024 could bring lower prices to previously hot housing markets. If you’re looking for an opportunity to own property, these cities could be a great place to look.
