U.S. News
The Most Expensive Places To Live In Each State
By CM Chaney · April 25, 2024
Understanding a city's affordability within the context of its state is crucial for both current residents and those considering relocation.
By analyzing median home prices, cost of living, income-to-home price ratios, and the priciest zip codes, we've identified the most expensive cities in each U.S. state. Ярослав Алексеенко on Unsplash
Alabama - Gulf Shores
Gulf Shores, a picturesque beach town with crystal sand shores and clear Gulf of Mexico waters, tops the list of Alabama's most expensive cities.As a desirable destination for both residents and tourists, it's no surprise that Gulf Shores commands high real estate prices. The combination of natural beauty and strong demand contributes to the city's status as one of the priciest places to live within the state of Alabama. Wikimedia
Alaska - Anchorage
Anchorage, Alaska's largest city, ranks as one of the most expensive places to live in the state.As of January 2021, Alaska's average cost of living surpassed the national average by more than 24%, with Anchorage being a significant contributor to this trend.
The city's high living costs can be attributed to factors such as its remote location, limited housing supply, and the increased expenses associated with importing goods and services. Wikimedia/Frank K.
Arizona - Paradise Valley
Paradise Valley, a luxurious suburb of Phoenix, not only ranks as Arizona's priciest city but also secures a spot on the nationwide top 50 list for 2022.Along with other cities in the Mountain Region, Paradise Valley has witnessed record-high median home prices this year.
The city's upscale amenities, exclusive neighborhoods, and proximity to Phoenix contribute to its status as one of the most expensive places to live in Arizona. Wikimedia/sean horan
Arkansas - Fayetteville
Fayetteville, home to the University of Arkansas, ranks as one of the most expensive cities in the state. Despite this, the cost of living in Fayetteville remains 11% below the national average, making it relatively affordable compared to other U.S. cities.The presence of the university, coupled with a growing economy and a vibrant downtown area, has contributed to Fayetteville's higher living costs compared to other Arkansas cities. Wikimedia/Brandonrush
California - Beverly Hills
Beverly Hills, the iconic Los Angeles suburb, exemplifies California's staggering real estate prices.With over 70% of the top 100 most expensive U.S. zip codes located in the Golden State, Beverly Hills consistently ranks among the priciest. T
he city's glamorous reputation, coupled with its proximity to Hollywood and luxurious amenities, has created a massive gap between average home prices and median household salaries, a trend that persists throughout California. Wikimedia/TobiasStage
Colorado - Aspen
Aspen, a world-renowned ski resort town in Colorado's Rocky Mountains, boasts some of the highest home prices in the state.The breathtaking mountain scenery and ski slopes attract affluent residents and tourists alike, driving up real estate values.
Aspen's desirability as a luxury destination, combined with its limited housing supply, has solidified its position as one of Colorado's most expensive cities, with home prices that reflect its exclusivity and appeal. Wikimedia/Wolfgang Moroder
Connecticut - Greenwich
Greenwich, a wealthy suburb located in southwestern Connecticut, consistently ranks among the state's most expensive cities. Its proximity to New York City and its status as a hedge fund capital have contributed to its high real estate prices, with several of its zip codes ranking among the top 100 priciest in the country.Greenwich's luxurious homes, top-rated schools, and picturesque setting along Long Island Sound have made it a sought-after destination for affluent buyers. Wikimedia/Carol M. Highsmith
Delaware - Bethany Beach
Bethany Beach, a charming coastal town in southern Delaware, ranks among the state's most expensive cities.While Delaware cities are often more affordable than other East Coast locations of similar size and amenities, Bethany Beach stands out for its high average home prices.
The town's pristine beaches, quaint boardwalk, and family-friendly atmosphere have made it a popular vacation spot and a desirable location for second homes, driving up real estate values. Wikimedia/Doug Olson
Florida - Palm Beach
Palm Beach, an affluent town on Florida's Atlantic coast, ranks among the state's most expensive cities.Known for its luxurious estates, high-end shopping, and pristine beaches, Palm Beach attracts wealthy residents and visitors from around the world.
While Miami Beach is home to one of the country's most expensive zip codes, Palm Beach and other renowned areas in Florida command comparable costs for their natural beauty and warm climate. Wikimedia/Vadim Sazanovich
Georgia - Milton
Milton, a rural and equestrian refuge located 30 miles north of Atlanta, tops Georgia's real estate market in 2022.The city's spacious estates, excellent schools, and proximity to Atlanta's amenities have made it a desirable location for affluent buyers seeking a peaceful suburban lifestyle.
Tybee Island, a popular vacation spot known for its sandy beaches and laid-back atmosphere, would rank fourth on the list of Georgia's most expensive cities. Facebook/City of Milton, Georgia - Government
Hawaii - Wailea
Wailea, a luxurious resort area on the island of Maui, exemplifies Hawaii's status as the most expensive state to live in within the United States.The islands boast some of the highest real estate and rental prices in the country, with Wailea's stunning beaches, world-class golf courses, and upscale amenities contributing to its position as one of Hawaii's most expensive cities.
The limited land available for development and the strong demand for vacation homes further drive up prices in this tropical paradise. Wikimedia/Ekrem Canli
Idaho - Sandpoint
Sandpoint, a picturesque town in northern Idaho, ranks as one of the state's most expensive cities. While most of Idaho remains affordable compared to the rest of the United States, Zillow reports that home prices in Sandpoint have increased by more than 28% in the past year.The town's stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and growing popularity among remote workers have contributed to its rising real estate values. Wikimedia/Alvin Feng
Illinois - Hinsdale
Hinsdale, an affluent suburb located just west of Chicago, ranks as one of Illinois' most expensive cities.The village's historic homes, top-rated schools, and proximity to downtown Chicago have made it a sought-after location for wealthy buyers.
Lake County, home to several upscale communities along the shores of Lake Michigan, is the most expensive county in Illinois, ranking 32nd nationwide, slightly ahead of Cook County, which includes Chicago and ranks 34th. Wikimedia/Dennisyerger84
Indiana - Zionsville
Zionsville, a charming suburb located just north of Indianapolis, ranks as one of Indiana's most expensive cities.The town's historic downtown, excellent schools, and family-friendly atmosphere have made it a desirable location for affluent buyers seeking a suburban lifestyle within the Indianapolis-Carmel-Anderson metro area.
This metro area, which includes Zionsville, is the most expensive in the state of Indiana, with home prices and living costs significantly higher than the state average. Wikimedia/Huw Williams
Iowa - Bettendorf
Bettendorf, a city located along the Mississippi River in eastern Iowa, ranks as one of the state's most expensive cities.Despite its relatively high housing costs compared to other Iowa cities, Bettendorf remains affordable when compared to the rest of the United States.
Iowa, as a whole, is considered one of the more reasonably priced states in terms of cost of living and real estate, making Bettendorf's prices seem more substantial within the state context. Facebook/City of Bettendorf, Iowa Government
Kansas - Leawood
Leawood, an upscale suburb located just south of Kansas City, ranks as one of the most expensive cities in Kansas.Despite this distinction, Kansas as a whole is ranked the fourth cheapest state in the country, with the average cost of living about 12 percent lower than the U.S. average.
Leawood's high-end housing, excellent schools, and proximity to Kansas City's amenities contribute to its status as one of the priciest locations within the state. Wikimedia/Michael Barera
Kentucky - Pikeville
Pikeville, a small city located in the Appalachian Mountains of eastern Kentucky, ranks as one of the state's most expensive cities.Despite its relatively high housing costs compared to other Kentucky cities, Pikeville remains more affordable than the average U.S. city.
The median home value in Pikeville is $226,200 in 2022, which is lower than the national median. Kentucky, as a whole, is still more affordable than the average U.S. state. Wikimedia/Nyttend
Louisiana - New Orleans
New Orleans, the vibrant and historic city located on the Mississippi River, ranks as Louisiana's most expensive city.The Pelican State's priciest metro areas are concentrated in the Southeast, surrounding Lake Pontchartrain, with New Orleans on the Southshore and Mandeville and Covington immediately to the north.
New Orleans' unique culture, world-famous cuisine, and thriving tourism industry contribute to its higher cost of living compared to other Louisiana cities. Wikimedia/thepipe26
Maine - Portland
Portland, the largest city in Maine and a popular coastal destination, ranks as the state's most expensive city. With a median home value of $302,700 in 2022, Portland's housing costs are significantly higher than the state average.The city's vibrant arts scene, diverse dining options, and proximity to stunning natural scenery have made it a desirable location for both residents and visitors, driving up real estate prices and the overall cost of living. Wikimedia
Maryland - Mount Rainier
Mount Rainier, a small city located just northeast of Washington, D.C., ranks as one of Maryland's most expensive cities. The city's proximity to the nation's capital, along with its historic homes and diverse community, have contributed to its high housing costs.Gibson Island, an exclusive enclave in the Chesapeake Bay, boasts a zip code (21056) that currently ranks among the top 100 most expensive in the U.S., further highlighting the high-end real estate found in some parts of Maryland. Wikimedia/Nonvirtual
Massachusetts - Cambridge
Cambridge, a vibrant city located just across the Charles River from Boston, ranks as one of Massachusetts' most expensive cities.Home to world-renowned institutions like Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge's intellectual atmosphere, diverse neighborhoods, and proximity to Boston contribute to its high cost of living.
Boston, the state capital, also has a zip code that currently ranks among the top 100 most expensive in the country. Wikimedia/Shinkuken
Michigan - Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, a lively city in southeastern Michigan, ranks as one of the state's most expensive places to live.Home to the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor's thriving cultural scene, excellent schools, and strong job market have made it a desirable location for both students and professionals.
Michigan's top three most expensive cities – Ann Arbor, East Lansing, and Kalamazoo – are also home to some of the state's most prominent universities, highlighting the impact of higher education on local housing markets. Wikimedia/Chriswaco
Minnesota - Hopkins
Hopkins, a suburb located just west of Minneapolis, ranks as one of Minnesota's most expensive cities. While the Land of 10,000 Lakes boasts some high real estate prices for lakefront properties, the overall cost of living is greatest in Hopkins and other metro areas surrounding the Twin Cities.Hopkins' proximity to Minneapolis and St. Paul, along with its strong job market and excellent schools, have contributed to its high housing costs and overall living expenses. Wikimedia/Tim Kiser
Mississippi - Starkville
Starkville, a city in eastern Mississippi and home to Mississippi State University, ranks as one of the state's most expensive places to live.Despite this distinction, Mississippi has the lowest cost of living out of all 50 U.S. states, making Starkville's relatively high prices less substantial when compared to cities in other states.
The presence of the university, along with a growing economy and a diverse population, has contributed to Starkville's higher cost of living compared to other Mississippi cities. Wikimedia/NatalieMaynor
Missouri - Sunset Hills
Sunset Hills, a suburb located just southwest of St. Louis, ranks as one of Missouri's most expensive cities. The cost of living in Sunset Hills has increased between 2021-2022, with the city's median home value reaching $416,300.Sunset Hills' picturesque neighborhoods, excellent schools, and proximity to St. Louis' amenities have made it a sought-after location for affluent buyers, driving up housing costs and overall living expenses. Facebook/sunsethillspd
Montana - Whitefish
Whitefish, a charming resort town located in the Rocky Mountains of northern Montana, ranks as one of the state's most expensive cities.Known for its stunning natural beauty, world-class ski resorts, and vibrant downtown, Whitefish attracts affluent residents and visitors from around the country.
Bozeman, another popular mountain town and home to Montana State University, is one of the fastest-growing and priciest metros in the state, further highlighting the impact of tourism and higher education on Montana's housing market. Wikimedia/WikiCapa
Nebraska - Omaha
Omaha, the largest city in Nebraska and a major economic hub for the region, ranks as one of the state's most expensive cities.Along with Lincoln, the state capital and home to the University of Nebraska, Omaha boasts some of the highest costs of living and real estate prices in the state.
The city's strong job market, excellent schools, and vibrant cultural scene have contributed to its popularity among residents and businesses alike, driving up housing costs and overall living expenses. Wikimedia/Tony Webster
Nevada - Reno
Reno, the "Biggest Little City in the World" and a popular tourist destination, ranks as one of Nevada's most expensive cities.Known for its casinos, outdoor recreation, and proximity to Lake Tahoe, Reno attracts visitors and residents alike with its unique blend of entertainment and natural beauty.
Nevada is also home to two of the 100 most expensive zip codes in the country: Glenbrook and Crystal Bay, both of which border Lake Tahoe and boast stunning views and luxurious properties. Wikimedia/Trevor Bexon
New Hampshire - Hanover
Hanover, a picturesque town located in the Connecticut River Valley of New Hampshire, ranks as one of the state's most expensive places to live.Home to Dartmouth College, an Ivy League institution, Hanover's intellectual atmosphere, stunning natural surroundings, and tight-knit community have made it a desirable location for both students and residents.
New Hampshire home prices have seen steep increases year over year due to high demand and low supply, with Hanover's housing market being no exception. Wikimedia/Ken_Gallager
New Jersey - Englewood Cliffs
Englewood Cliffs, an affluent suburb located just across the Hudson River from New York City, ranks as one of New Jersey's most expensive cities.The borough's luxurious homes, stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, and proximity to the city's amenities have made it a sought-after location for wealthy buyers.
New Jersey currently has three zip codes ranked among the 100 most expensive in the U.S., including those in Alpine, Sea Girt, and Avalon, further highlighting the state's high-end real estate market. Wikimedia/Ww2censor
New Mexico - Santa Fe
Santa Fe, the capital of New Mexico and a popular tourist destination, ranks as one of the state's most expensive cities.Known for its stunning adobe architecture, vibrant arts scene, and rich cultural heritage, Santa Fe attracts visitors and residents from around the world.
The city's unique blend of natural beauty, history, and modern amenities has driven up housing costs and overall living expenses, making it one of the priciest places to live in New Mexico. Wikimedia/Daniel Schwen
New York - Sagaponack
Sagaponack, a small village located in the Hamptons on Long Island, ranks as one of New York's most expensive places to live.Known for its luxurious beachfront properties, sprawling estates, and celebrity residents, Sagaponack exemplifies the high-end real estate market found in the Hamptons and other exclusive areas of New York.
The state has a staggering number of zip codes on the priciest 100 list, second only to California, highlighting the exorbitant cost of living in many parts of New York. Wikimedia
North Carolina - Boone
Boone, a charming mountain town located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, ranks as one of the state's most expensive places to live.Home to Appalachian State University, Boone's stunning natural scenery, vibrant downtown, and outdoor recreational opportunities have made it a popular destination for both students and residents.
The Tar Heel State has become an increasingly appealing option for those seeking better weather and quality of life, driving up living expenses and housing prices in desirable areas like Boone. Wikimedia/Jeremy Mikkola
North Dakota - Bismarck
Bismarck, the capital of North Dakota and the state's second-largest city, ranks as one of the most expensive places to live in the state.Despite this distinction, North Dakota's living costs remain below the U.S. average, making Bismarck relatively affordable compared to cities in other states.
However, when compared to Fargo, North Dakota's largest city, Bismarck is 5.6 percent more expensive overall, with a much larger gap of 21 percent in median home costs. Wikimedia/Andrew Filer
Ohio - Terrace Park
Terrace Park, an affluent village located just east of Cincinnati, ranks as one of Ohio's most expensive places to live.The village's historic homes, excellent schools, and tight-knit community have made it a sought-after location for wealthy buyers seeking a suburban lifestyle.
Despite having the most expensive zip code in the state, Ohio as a whole still boasts a lower cost of living than the U.S. average, making Terrace Park's high prices less substantial when compared to other states. Facebook/terraceparkohio
Oklahoma - Edmond
Edmond, a suburb located just north of Oklahoma City, ranks as one of the most expensive cities in Oklahoma.Known for its excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and strong sense of community, Edmond has become a popular choice for families and professionals seeking a high quality of life.
Real estate prices in Edmond and other Oklahoma cities like Stillwater and Jenks run far higher than in larger metros such as Oklahoma City and Tulsa. livinginok.com
Oregon - Lake Oswego
Lake Oswego, an affluent suburb located just south of Portland, ranks as one of Oregon's most expensive cities.The city's stunning lakefront properties, excellent schools, and proximity to Portland's amenities have made it a desirable location for wealthy buyers.
In addition to top-dollar real estate, Oregon also boasts higher-than-average utility costs, such as gasoline prices, which contribute to the state's overall high cost of living. Wikimedia/Another Believer
Pennsylvania - State College
State College, home to Pennsylvania State University, ranks as the most expensive city in the state. The borough's high home price to income ratio (8.7x) and income to rent ratio (35.2x) create a significant disparity, making it challenging for residents to afford housing.The presence of the university and its impact on the local economy contribute to the elevated cost of living in State College compared to other parts of Pennsylvania. Wikimedia
Rhode Island - Newport
Newport, a picturesque coastal town in Rhode Island, ranks as one of the state's most expensive cities.As a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches and historic mansions, Newport's real estate prices and overall cost of living are significantly higher than other parts of the state.
The city's desirability among both tourists and residents drives up housing costs, making it a more expensive place to call home. Wikimedia/Kenneth C. Zirkel
South Carolina - Kiawah Island
Kiawah Island, a barrier island located just south of Charleston, ranks as one of South Carolina's most expensive places to live.The island's pristine beaches, world-class golf resorts, and luxurious properties attract both tourists and affluent residents, driving up real estate prices and the cost of living.
While the islands along South Carolina's Atlantic coast are major draws, they come with a significantly higher price tag compared to other parts of the state. Wikimedia/Ian Brown
South Dakota - Spearfish
Spearfish, a charming city located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, ranks as one of the state's most expensive places to live.Despite this distinction, South Dakota as a whole boasts a lower cost of living compared to most other states, making Spearfish relatively affordable in a national context.
The city's proximity to stunning natural attractions and its growing economy contribute to its higher housing costs and overall living expenses. Wikimedia/JERRYE AND ROY KLOTZ MD
Tennessee - Brentwood
Brentwood, an affluent suburb located just south of Nashville, ranks as one of Tennessee's most expensive cities.The primary cost factor in Brentwood and other pricey Tennessee cities is the high price of homes, coupled with steep homeowners association (HOA) fees.
While other cities like Nashville also have high costs of living, their real estate prices remain more reasonable compared to Brentwood's exclusive neighborhoods and luxurious properties. Wikimedia/Skye Marthaler
Texas - Southlake
Southlake, an upscale suburb located just northwest of Dallas, ranks as one of Texas' most expensive cities.The city's beautiful neighborhoods, top-rated schools, and proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex have driven up real estate costs, making it one of the priciest places to live in the state.
However, other major Texas cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston can also boast massive property and utility costs, depending on the specific zip code. Wikimedia
Utah - Park City
Park City, a picturesque mountain town located just east of Salt Lake City, ranks as one of Utah's most expensive cities.The town's stunning natural scenery, world-class ski resorts, and vibrant downtown attract visitors from around the globe, driving up real estate prices and the cost of living.
Park City's desirability as a tourist destination and its luxurious amenities contribute to its well-above-average prices for housing and other goods. Wikimedia/claralieu
Vermont - Burlington
Burlington, the largest city in Vermont and a popular college town, ranks as one of the state's most expensive places to live.Like many of its New England neighbors, Vermont as a whole is comparatively expensive, with Burlington leading the charge in terms of housing costs and overall living expenses.
Despite its relatively small population compared to other states, Vermont's high cost of living can be attributed to factors such as limited housing supply and higher taxes. Wikimedia/Kenneth C. Zirkel
Virginia - Blacksburg
Blacksburg, a charming town located in the heart of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, ranks as one of the state's most expensive places to live.Home to Virginia Tech University, Blacksburg's historic downtown, excellent schools, and proximity to outdoor recreational opportunities have made it a desirable location for both students and residents.
While the town strives to preserve its cultural integrity, it is not immune to the effects of inflation, which has driven up housing costs and overall living expenses. Wikimedia/Idawriter
Washington - Medina
Medina, an affluent suburb located just across Lake Washington from Seattle, ranks as one of Washington's most expensive cities.The city's luxurious waterfront properties, stunning views, and proximity to Seattle's thriving job market have made it a sought-after location for wealthy buyers.
Medina's zip code, 98039, ranks as the 10th most expensive in the country, highlighting the extraordinary cost of living in this exclusive enclave. Wikimedia/Atomic Taco
West Virginia - Morgantown
Morgantown, a vibrant city located in northern West Virginia and home to West Virginia University, ranks as the state's most expensive place to live.While the overall cost of living in Morgantown remains below the national average, the city's high home price to income ratio (5.1x) sets it apart from other parts of the state.
The presence of the university and its impact on the local economy contribute to the higher housing costs in Morgantown. Wikimedia/WeaponizingArchitecture
Wisconsin - Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva, a picturesque resort town located in southeastern Wisconsin, ranks as one of the state's most expensive places to live.While Wisconsin as a whole typically boasts well-below-average costs compared to the rest of the nation, the real estate prices in Lake Geneva and other popular lakeside destinations are strikingly higher than most other parts of the state.
The town's stunning lakefront properties, historic charm, and proximity to Chicago and Milwaukee drive up housing costs and overall living expenses. Wikimedia/Yinan Chen
Wyoming - Laramie
Laramie, a charming college town located in southeastern Wyoming and home to the University of Wyoming, ranks as one of the state's most expensive places to live.Despite having the smallest population of all 50 U.S. states, Wyoming's appeal to outdoor enthusiasts, including mountaineers and wildlife-seekers, has put a vacation-sized price tag on desirable homes in popular destinations like Laramie.
The town's proximity to stunning natural attractions, combined with its vibrant downtown and the presence of the university, contribute to its higher cost of living compared to other parts of the state.
(This content was created with the help of AI, and edited by a human.) Wikimedia/Nyttend