The quest for the perfect place to call home in the USA often leads to a rude awakening about the cost of living. From the eye-watering price of a modest home to the gulp-inducing total at the grocery store checkout, let’s dive into the reality of the 15 most unaffordable states in the US. Buckle up; it’s going to be an expensive ride.
1. California – The Golden (State) Gouge
Image Credit: Shutterstock / TierneyMJ
In California, a median home price floats around $800,000, but in places like San Francisco, that number skyrockets to over $1.3 million. Rent? About $2,800 for a one-bedroom in the city. High taxes, gas at $4+ a gallon, and a cost of living 50% above the national average make it a tough state for savers. But hey, you’ve got beaches, tech jobs, and avocados.
2. Hawaii – Paradise at a Premium
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Theodore Trimmer
Hawaii isn’t just geographically isolated; it’s on another planet financially. Median home prices are above $1 million, with Honolulu rents averaging $2,300. Groceries can be 30-60% more than the mainland, thanks to shipping costs. Salaries are higher, but they’re swallowed by costs, from gas at $3.50+ to healthcare that’s pricier due to the remote location.
3. New York – The Empire Spends Back
Image Credit: Shutterstock / pisaphotography
New York’s allure comes with a hefty price tag. A median NYC home costs over $1 million, with rents for a tiny apartment at $3,000+. Upstate offers relief, but not much. Taxes are high, gas is around $2.80/gallon, and getting into the city (if you’re not already there) adds to daily expenses. But the diversity, culture, and opportunities? Unmatched.
4. Massachusetts – Revolutionary Prices
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sean Pavone
In Massachusetts, the median home price hits $530,000, with Boston’s rents around $2,500. Healthcare and education are top-notch but costly. High state income taxes and gas at $2.70/gallon don’t help. You’re paying for access to history, academia, and clam chowder.
5. Oregon – Green but Expensive
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sean Pavone
Oregon’s median home price stands at $470,000, with Portland rents at $1,500. No sales tax, but high state income taxes and gas at $3/gallon balance that out. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and foodies, but your wallet will feel the hike.
6. Washington – Tech Wealth and High Costs
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sean Pavone
Seattle’s tech boom means jobs but also a median home price near $800,000 and rents at $2,100. No state income tax, but sales tax near 10% and gas at $3.50/gallon. Great coffee and mountain views come at a cost.
7. Colorado – Rocky Mountain High Prices
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sean Pavone
Denver’s median home price is around $600,000, with rents at $1,700. High state income taxes, gas at $2.80/gallon, and a cost of living 12% above the national average. The outdoors is your playground, if you can afford it.
8. Alaska – The Last Frontier for Your Wallet
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Rex Lisman
Despite no sales or state income tax, Alaska’s remote location means high costs for groceries and healthcare. Median home prices are around $310,000, with rents at $1,200. Gas is pricey at $3.20/gallon, but the natural beauty is unparalleled.
9. New Jersey – Garden State, Wallet Wilt
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Mihai_Andritoiu
With some of the highest property taxes in the nation, a median home price of $400,000, and gas at $3/gallon, New Jersey makes sure you pay for its proximity to NYC and Philly. The shore’s nice, if you can afford the property taxes.
10. Maryland – High Income, High Costs
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Felix Lipov
A median home in Maryland costs $360,000, with rents around $1,700. High state income taxes, gas at $2.90/gallon, and a cost of living 20% above the national average. You’re paying for access to D.C., good schools, and crab cakes.
11. Connecticut – New England’s Pricey Corner
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sean Pavone
Expect to pay a median price of $320,000 for a home, with rents at $1,400. High taxes, gas at $3/gallon, and living costs 21% above the national average. The charm of small towns and access to NYC come at a high cost.
12. Rhode Island – Small State, Big Expenses
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sean Pavone
With a median home price of $380,000 and average rents at $1,500, Rhode Island’s charm is costly. High taxes and healthcare costs, plus gas at $2.80/gallon, make this small state a big spender’s game. Its coastal beauty and seafood are top-notch, if your wallet can handle it.
13. Vermont – The Green Mountain Spend
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sean Pavone
Vermont, with its lush landscapes and artisanal everything, has a median home price around $330,000 and rent at $1,400. High healthcare costs, state taxes, and a cost of living that’s 20% above the national average mean you’re paying a premium for that serene lifestyle. Gas here hits $2.90/gallon, making those scenic drives a bit less sweet.
14. Virginia – Historical High Costs
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sean Pavone
Virginia’s rich history comes with equally rich living costs. The median home price is around $350,000, with Northern Virginia closer to $600,000 due to its proximity to D.C. Average rent is $1,700, with high healthcare costs and state income tax. Gas averages $2.70/gallon, but at least you’re close to the nation’s capital and a wealth of historical sites.
15. Illinois – The Windy (Pricey) City
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sean Pavone
Illinois, and especially Chicago, can blow your budget away. A median home price in the state is around $230,000, but in Chicago, it jumps to $350,000+, with rents averaging $2,000. High property taxes, state income tax, and living costs 20% above the national average in the city make it a tough financial nut to crack. Gas at $3.30/gallon doesn’t help, but the city’s vibrant culture, food scene, and sports might just make it worth it.
Brace Your Wallets
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Yuliya Padina
Each of these states offers its own version of the American dream, served with a side of steep costs. Before you pack your bags for paradise, make sure your wallet is as ready for the adventure as you are. Dream big, spend wisely!
More From The Green Voyage
Top 10 Trending Travel Destinations 2024
6 Essential Banking Apps for International Travel – Managing Your Finances on the Go
Traveling With Kids – 10 Tips to Create Memorable Family Holidays
The post 15 Most Unaffordable States to Live first appeared on The Green Voyage.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Andy Dean Photography.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
Tips for Trip Success
Book Your Flight
Find an inexpensive flight by using Kayak, a favorite of ours because it regularly returns less expensive flight options from a variety of airlines.
Book Your Hotel or Special Accommodation
We are big fans of Booking.com. We like their review system and photos. If we want to see more reviews and additional booking options, we go to Expedia.
You Need Travel Insurance!
Good travel insurance means having total peace of mind. Travel insurance protects you when your medical insurance often will not and better than what you get from your credit card. It will provide comprehensive coverage should you need medical treatment or return to the United States, compensation for trip interruption, baggage loss, and other situations.Find the Perfect Insurance Plan for Your Trip