If you’ve ever imagined yourself living in a city like Manhattan or Los Angeles, you’re not alone. Making it big in the big city is one of the most enduring American dreams. While this may not be everyone’s American dream, the United States has some great cities with a lot to offer, from jobs to entertainment and overall quality of life. While millions of people hustle and grind for a great life in these cities, it often comes at a high price. The cost of living in some American cities are not only among some of the highest in the world but can be over 100% higher than the rest of the country. Just how high is high? We’ve broken down the most expensive American cities based on relevant statistics like housing, utilities and groceries.
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50.) St. Louis, Missouri
Population: 315,685
Median Home Price: $151,900
Median Annual Household Income: $52,343
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.20
St. Louis, located in east central Missouri on the Mississippi River, is the second-largest city in the state. The city’s most famous landmark is the 630-foot Gateway Arch, designed by Eero Saarinen and erected in 1965 to symbolize St. Louis as the gateway to the American West. The Municipal Theatre, the largest and oldest outdoor musical theatre in the US, is located in Forest Park. St. Louis has a thriving nightlife, helping ranked on the Forbes list of the Best Cities for Singles. With Anheuser-Busch based in the city, would you expect anything less? The historic Soulard neighborhood just south of Busch Stadium is the city’s best place to see live music, with many clubs within walking distance. Laclede’s Landing on the Mississippi River is a large area packed with restaurants, bars and nightclubs, and with easy access to riverboat gambling casinos.
The median home value is $151,900. The values have gone up 1.4% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will rise 3.5% within the next year. The median price of homes currently listed is $170,000 while the median price of homes that sold is $166,100. The median rent price is $995.
49.) Rochester, New York
Population: 208,880
Median Home Price: $140,500
Median Annual Household Income: $55,134
Price of a dozen eggs: $1.89
Rochester, New York received the All-American-City award, and it’s only one of ten communities to earn this recognition. There is always something to do in Rochester, from museums to antique shopping, sports to culture, scenic cruising to bargain hunting. The city is known as both the “Flour City” and the “Flower City” and is the third largest city in New York State. The city is the county seat for Monroe County. Rochester is part of a metropolitan area that includes sections of Genesee County, Livingston County, Ontario County, Orleans County, and Wayne County.
The median home value is $140,500. The home values have gone up 1.2% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will rise 0.9% within the next year. The median price of homes currently listed is $140,000 while the median price of homes that sold is $127,300. The median rent price is $1,250.
48.) Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Population: 595,047
Median Home Price: $114,900
Median Annual Household Income: $58,029
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.52
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is one of the 25 largest cities in the United States. It is also the largest city in Wisconsin as well as an international seaport. Milwaukee is located in southeast Wisconsin, on the western bank of Lake Michigan, and an hour and thirty minutes west of the state capital, Madison. Milwaukee is home to ten Fortune 1000 company headquarters, including such household names as Johnson Controls, Northwestern Mutual, and Harley-Davidson. Milwaukee experiences all four seasons and rapidly changing weather. July is the warmest month of the year with an average temperature of 76 degrees Fahrenheit. January is the coldest month, with average temperatures remaining below freezing at 26 degrees Fahrenheit. The “lake effect” of Lake Michigan makes for cooler summers, warmer winters (than surrounding areas further from the lake), and plenty of snow. Milwaukee is well known for its diverse cuisine, including American, English, German, Greek, Indian, Mexican, and more.
The median price of homes currently listed is $114,900 while the median price of homes that sold is $138,000. The median rent price is $1,025.
47.) Cincinnati, Ohio
Population: 298,800
Median Home Price: $156,800
Median Annual Household Income: $60,260
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.79
Today, Cincinnati is home to major corporations that include Procter & Gamble, Kroger and Federated Department Stores, the parent company of Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s. With a metro area that includes parts of Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky, Cincinnati has a unique personality that crosses midwestern industrial city with a southern country feel. Cincinnati has an energetic nightlife, with Main Street the main attraction, especially around the intersection of 12th Street. The Mount Adams neighborhood just east of downtown is a funky area, with upscale restaurants, bars and clubs. The Corryville district near the University of Cincinnati is another popular area to find diverse evening entertainment options. Riverboat casinos are available in Indiana just 20 minutes away.
The median home value is $156,800. Cincinnati home values have gone up 5.0% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will rise 2.8% within the next year. The median price of homes currently listed is $199,800 while the median price of homes that sold is $146,000. The median rent price is $1,250.
46.) Grand Rapids, Michigan
Population: 196,445
Median Home Price: $144,900
Median Annual Household Income: $48,357
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.64
Incorporated as a village around 1838, Grand Rapids is the second largest city in Michigan. Located on the Grand River in western Michigan, Grand Rapids lies 30 miles east of Lake Michigan. Grand Rapids experiences all four seasons. Summer and winter temperatures are moderated by Lake Michigan. However, the lake-effect contributes to an average annual snowfall of 64.4 inches. July average daily high and low temperatures are 82.3 and 60.5 degrees Fahrenheit. January average daily high and low temperatures are 29.3 and 15.6 degrees Fahrenheit. Three Fortune 500 companies are headquartered in Grand Rapids – Universal Forest Products, Spartan Stores, and Steelcase, the latter carrying on a tradition of quality furniture making. Another notable company is Bissel, Inc. Also within the county is Alticor, the parent of Amway. Approximately a dozen colleges and universities are located in the area.
The median price of homes currently listed is $144,900 while the median price of homes that sold is $147,200. The median rent price in Grand Rapids is $1,300,
45.) Cleveland, Ohio
Population: 385,809
Median Home Price: $137,600
Median Household Income: $51,049
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.38
Cleveland, located in northeast Ohio on Lake Erie, was founded in 1796 by and named after Moses Cleaveland, and incorporated as a city in 1836. Recent re-investment in the downtown area (like new stadiums for its sports teams, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and shopping arcades) has revitalized the city. Though still a manufacturing town, Cleveland’s economy is now more diversified, with research firms, law firms and the healthcare industry among its leading employers. The city is a hub for two major airlines. Things are looking up in Cleveland. Once the butt of jokes, the city is now one of the most fun places in the country. Cleveland’s nightlife is centered in its downtown area. The Warehouse District is among the best places in the city to see live music.
The median home value is $137,600. The home values have gone up 5.1% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will rise 2.6% within the next year. The median price of homes currently listed is $149,900 while the median price of homes that sold is $130,900. The median rent price is $1,000.
44.) Houston, Texas
Population: 2,303,000
Median Home Price: $186,800
Median Household Income: $61,708
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.90
Houston is the fourth largest city in the United States with a population of approximately 2 million people. The population of the greater Houston metropolitan area is approximately 5 million people. Houston is located in eastern Texas, on Galveston Bay, near the Texas Gulf Coast. It is approximately two hours from the Texas/Louisiana border. It is unofficially nicknamed the “Bayou City” because of four bayous that run through the city. Houston’s official nickname is “Space City” since it is home to NASA’s Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center, where Mission Control is located. The port of Houston is one of the ten busiest ports in the world and one of the busiest ports in the United States. Houston is well known for its energy (oil) and aeronautics industries and is home to the world-renowned Texas Medical Center. Long famous as a home for Tex-Mex cuisine, Houston offers the cuisine of almost every ethnic group. Excellent restaurants for every taste can be found in just about every part of the city. For individuals whose nighttime interests turn to the nightclub, dancing, and music scene, few places offer as much as Houston. In Houston, an individual can enjoy just about every type of music, including: blues, classical, choral, country, jazz, and Zydeco. While scattered throughout the city, a great deal of Houston’s nightlife is concentrated in the Downtown and Uptown sections of the city.
The median home value is $186,800. The home values have gone up 6.6% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will rise 2.7% within the next year. The median price of homes currently listed is $293,990. The median rent price is $1,575.
43.) Tampa, Florida
Population: 377,165
Median Home Price: $198,200
Median Household Income: $51,115
Price of a dozen eggs: $3.17
Tampa, Florida has an enormous variety of attractions and perks for the people who live in and around the city. Waterside cafes, Busch Gardens, the Florida Aquarium, Channelside shopping and the Tampa Bay Bucaneers, Rays and Lightning are just few of the biggest attractions. Then there’s Ybor City, where visitors can find hand-rolled cigars and Cuban sandwiches. And don’t forget the ocean and the white sand beaches, which offer people the chance to participate in jet skiing, parasailing, sport fishing and boating. Tampa Bay is known for its nightlife scene and the variety that it offers. Any night of the week there will be music in bars such as rock, reggae, blues, country, punk, salsa and jazz. There are a few trendy spots with nightclub scenes tailored to sophisticated partygoers, such as Channelside and International Plaza’s Bay Street. The SoHo district offers the chance to mix and mingle with friends, while Ybor City is widely known as the place to be at night.
The median home value is $198,200. The home values have gone up 10.9% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will rise 3.9% within the next year. The median price of homes currently listed in Tampa is $285,000 while the median price of homes that sold is $194,000. The median rent price is $1,400.
42.) Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Population: 227,715
Median Home Price: $169,900
Median Household Income: $38,790
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.93
Sitting along the banks of the Mississippi River is the city of Baton Rouge, the capital of the state of Louisiana. Baton Rouge today presents an interesting mix of tradition, history, and commerce, with chemical companies and oil refineries operating against a background of earthen beauty and vibrant cultural influences. The city of Baton Rouge is alive with a large variety of activities that make it an ideal place to visit. Riverfront casinos, Cajun-Creole restaurants, and lively nightclubs combine with old plantation homes, historic governmental buildings, museums, and performing arts centers to give a visitor a wide choice of attractions to relish.
The median home value is $169,900. The home values have gone up 10.0% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will rise 3.1% within the next year. The median price of homes currently listed is $207,000. The median rent price is $1,300.
41.) Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Population: 638,367
Median Home Price: $149,500
Median Household Income: $47,004
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.31
Oklahoma City, located in central Oklahoma, is the state capital and its largest city. Today, Oklahoma City is the nucleus of the cattle industry and a major distribution center for the state. Seven miles southeast of downtown OKC, Tinker Air Force Base is Oklahoma’s largest employer and the world’s largest aircraft repair facility. There has been a billion dollar redevelopment program in recent years, seeing a major restoration of the Oklahoma City downtown area and other locations in the city. The Oklahoma City renovation has included the Bricktown Canal Landmark project, renovation of educational campuses, and many historical buildings.
The median price of homes currently listed is $215,999 while the median price of homes that sold is $149,500. The median rent price is $1,095.
40.) Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Population: 303,625
Median Home Price: $190,000
Median Household Income: $50,489
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.86
Pittsburgh is located in southwestern Pennsylvania at the confluence of three rivers: the Allegheny, the Monongahela and the Ohio. Known as the Steel City, Pittsburgh emerged in the late 1800s as a world center for coal and steel. Despite setbacks to the steel industry and a population decline over the last few decades, Pittsburgh remains the state’s second-largest city and an important industrial center. Today, Pittsburgh is a city of 400,000, with a diversified economy that embraces high tech companies such as Rockwell Automation and financial services companies such as Mellon Financial and PNC Financial. Other top companies based in the area include Alcoa, US Steel, Heinz, US Airways and Westinghouse. Pittsburgh is one of America’s safest and most affordable cities, with a high quality of life. There are a great variety of nightlife attractions in the Steel City. Described on its website as Pittsburgh’s “24-hour neighborhood,” the Strip District is a one-half square mile area northeast of downtown that’s loaded with shops, restaurants, bars and clubs. For a quieter scene, Pittsburgh’s South Side has the city’s best restaurants, historic Victorian architecture, and shopping and entertainment options.
The median price of homes currently listed is $190,000. The median rent price in Pittsburgh is $1,349.
39.) Orlando, Florida
Population: 277,173
Median Home Price: $207,100
Median Household Income: $52,385
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.92
Orlando is home to numerous theme parks, including the world famous Walt Disney World Resort. Orlando is also only 45 minutes from Port Canaveral, a major cruise ship port that plays host to at least three major cruise lines and over ten different cruise ships, including the Disney Cruise Line’s two ships. Orlando has a hot, sub-tropical climate that is divided into two main seasons, the warm season (from late spring through early fall) and the cool season. The warm season is hot and very humid. The cool season is more temperate and comfortable. The cool season does occasionally see temperatures below freezing, typically overnight. On average, the temperature dips below freezing in Orlando about three times a year.
The median price of homes currently listed is $273,490 while the median price of homes that sold is $207,100. The median rent price is $1,475.
38.) Charlotte, North Carolina
Population: 842,051
Median Home Price: $200,700
Median Household Income: $53,274
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.87
Charlotte is one of the 25 largest cities in the United States and also the largest city in North Carolina. It is located in south/central North Carolina. It is home to over 10 Fortune 1000 companies, including household names such as Bank of America, Lowe’s, and Wachovia Corp. Charlotte has a humid sub-tropical climate that is characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers. The coldest month of the year is January with an average daily temperature of 51 degrees Fahrenheit. July is the hottest month of the year with an average daily temperature of 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
The median home value is $200,700. The home values have gone up 11.9% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will rise 4.4% within the next year. The median price of homes currently listed is $289,000. The median rent price is $1,400.
37.) Fort Worth, Texas
Population: 854,113
Median Home Price: $245,800
Median Household Income: $59,175
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.19
Fort Worth, located in north central Texas about 30 miles west of Dallas, is familiar to many as part of the Dallas – Fort Worth metroplex. Fort Worth is actually thriving city in its own right, with around 550,000 people and a bustling downtown area. It is the sixth-largest city in the state and one of the 30 most populous in the nation. Fort Worth’s own website claims the city is the museum capital of the Southwest, and it may be right. The city’s Culture District, located just south of 7th Street and west of University Drive, has more than a half dozen museums in a concentrated area. The Amon Carter Museum features 19th and 20th century western art, with works by Frederic Remington and Georgia O’Keeffe. The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth is the oldest art museum in Texas, with contemporary paintings, sculpture and photography.
The median price of homes currently is $320,000 while the median price of homes that sold is $245,800. The median rent price is $1,650.
36.) Richmond, Virginia
Population: 220,289
Median Home Price: $219,000
Median Household Income: $40,758
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.31
Richmond is the capital of Virginia. Richmond is located in eastern Virginia, 60 miles west of the Chesapeake Bay, and 100 miles south of Washington, DC. Precipitation is about 43.9 inches per year. Snowfalls average 12.5 inches annually. Temperatures reach 90 degrees an average of 34 days each summer. July average daily high and low temperatures are 87.5 and 68.3 degrees Fahrenheit. January average daily highs and lows are 45.3 and 27.6 degrees Fahrenheit. Fortune 500 companies headquartered in Richmond, and their lines of business are Dominion Resources, Genworth Financial, Performance Food Group, Circuit City Group, and CarMax.
The median price of homes currently listed is $220,000 while the median price of homes that sold is $219,100. The median rent price in Richmond is $1,200.
35.) New Orleans, Louisiana
Population: 391,495
Median Home Price: $235,000
Median Household Income: $48,804
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.87
New Orleans, located at the mouth of the Mississippi River in southern Louisiana, is the largest city in the state and one of the South’s commercial centers. It’s a city steeped in a dark history as rich as its famous gumbo and crawfish etouff. Known as “The Big Easy” for its easy-going lifestyle and morals that are anything but strict, New Orleans has traditionally been known for having a nightlife second to none, housing bars and drinking establishments many of which are located on the famous Bourbon Street in the French Quarter. Over the years, visitors to this area have grown accustomed to walking through the street with an alcoholic beverage in hand, sampling first rate jazz, blues and other types of music through all hours of the night.
The median price of homes currently listed is $235,000 while the median price of homes that sold is $186,500. The median rent price is $1,400.
34.) Colorado Springs, Colorado
Population: 416,427
Median Home Price: $267,600
Median Annual Household Income: $54,228
Price of a dozen eggs: $3.45
Colorado Springs, located in the Rocky Mountains just east of Pikes Peak and 66 miles south of Denver, is the second-largest city in Colorado. A large student population and a growing economy contribute to the city’s hopping nightlife, with many bars and dance clubs clustered along North Academy Boulevard. With so much to see and do, Colorado Springs is one of America’s up-and-coming places for young people.
The median home value is $267,600. The home values have gone up 10.2% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will rise 3.4% within the next year. The median price of homes currently listed is $319,900 while the median price of homes that sold is $263,600. The median rent price is $1,495.
33.) Tacoma, Washington
Population: 211,277
Median Home Price: $273,400
Median Household Income: $51,269
Price of a dozen eggs: $3.20
Tacoma, Washington is the third largest city in Washington state. Tacoma is located in western Washington on Commencement Bay, off the southern tip of Puget Sound. It lies 25 miles northeast of Olympia and 26 miles south of Seattle. The peak of Mount Ranier is roughly 40 miles to the southeast and dominates the skyline. It’s known for the Museum of Glass, which has works by renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly among its exhibits. These include installations on the Chihuly Bridge of Glass. The Tacoma Art Museum has a strong Northwest regional focus. The Washington State History Museum features hands-on exhibits, plus a vast model railroad.
The median home value is $273,400. The home values have gone up 12.2% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will rise 4.8% within the next year. The median rent price in Tacoma is $1,595.
32.) San Antonio, Texas
Population: 1,493,000
Median Home Price: $230,995
Median Household Income: $56,105
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.48
One of Texas’ most famous cities is the City of San Antonio. Located in the south-central part of the state, San Antonio is Texas’ second-largest city and serves as an economic and cultural gateway to the American Southwest. Tourism thrives in San Antonio and has become one of the city’s leading industries. The famed RiverWalk (Paseo Del Rio) takes visitors along 3 miles of cool shady pathways lined with unique retail shops, cafes, restaurants, and nightclubs. During the Christmas and New Year holiday period, the RiverWalk undergoes a stunning transformation, becoming an impressive festival of lights. San Antonio’s most famous attraction is also Texas’ top tourist draw: The Alamo. Located on beautifully landscaped grounds in the heart of the city, the attraction includes a museum containing relics and mementos from the Republic of Texas and narration chronicling the fall of the Alamo.
The median price of homes currently listed is $230,995. The median rent price is $1,235.
31.) Burlington, Vermont
Population: 42,260
Median Home Price: $294,100
Median Household Income: $67,396
Price of a dozen eggs: $3.45
The city of Burlington, Vermont’s largest city, rests on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain. Burlington is home to the University of Vermont (UVM). With a richly deserved reputation as a college town, the city is also home to Burlington College, Champlain College, and a Community College of Vermont campus. Ice cream aficionados will recognize Burlington as the birthplace of the legendary Ben & Jerry’s, which was founded in 1978 in a renovated Burlington gas station. The company’s headquarters are now located in nearby South Burlington. Burlington is known for its lively arts culture. The Vermont Symphony Orchestra is the oldest state-supported orchestra in the United States. Visual arts are highlighted at public galleries such as the Pine Street Art Works and the Firehouse Gallery. The Shelburne Museum spans 45 acres and features 37 buildings showcasing New England’s proud pre-industrial traditions, such as the historic Lake Champlain Lighthouse, an old-fashioned covered bridge, furniture from the 18th and 19th centuries, and the remains of an old jail cell.
The median home value is $294,100. The home values have gone up 4.3% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will rise 2.1% within the next year. The median price of homes currently listed is $341,500.
30.) Salt Lake City, Utah
Population: 193,744
Median Home Price: $295,000
Median Household Income: $45,833
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.48
Salt Lake City is the capital of Utah and the largest city in Utah. It is located in central Utah, near the eastern shore of the Great Salt Lake. It is home to three Fortune 1000 companies. The world’s largest copper mine, the Bingham Canyon Mine, is located near Salt Lake City. It is the largest manmade excavation on earth. It is a half-hour drive southwest of Salt Lake City. Salt Lake City’s climate is characterized by four distinct seasons. January is the coldest month of the year with average daily temperatures of 39 degrees Fahrenheit. July is the warmest month with average annual daily temperatures of 89 degrees Fahrenheit. On average, Salt Lake City receives just over 15 inches of rain a year and 54 inches of snow. Nearby mountains can get as much as 500 inches of snow during winter. Salt Lake City has many nightlife entertainment options, including country western line dancing, jazz and blues, rock n’ roll, and more.
The median home value is $295,000. The home values have gone up 7.2% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will rise 3.4% within the next year. The median price of homes currently listed is $399,900. The median rent price in Salt Lake City is $1,450.
29.) Newark, New Jersey
Population: 281,764
Median Home Price: $243,300
Median Household Income: $31,100
Price of a dozen eggs: $3.01
Newark, located in northeastern New Jersey, just 8 miles west of New York City, is the largest city in the state. Today, Newark is home to leading corporations. Now an insurance center, with Prudential headquartered there, Newark sells more insurance than any city except Hartford. It remains a major transportation hub, with one of the country’s busiest airports (Newark International Airport) and seaports. Newark, once one of America’s great jazz cities, is still home to many clubs offering musical entertainment. Nightlife in Newark offers its own array of restaurants and bars (with more in Montclair and other neighboring towns), plus the added option of a short trek to the Big Apple.
The median home value is $243,300. The home values have gone up 3.0% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will rise 2.5% within the next year. The median price of homes currently listed is $185,000. The median rent price is $1,475.
28.) Charleston, South Carolina
Population: 134,385
Median Home Price: $383,000
Median Household Income: $52,971
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.87
The second-largest city in the state of South Carolina is the city of Charleston, which serves as the county seat of Charleston County. Throughout its history, Charleston has served as a cultural capital of the South. Visual arts are well represented here with the Gibbes Museum of Art, Charleston’s premier art museum, in addition to numerous art galleries. Each spring, Charleston is host to Spoleto Festival U.S.A., a 17-day art festival featuring a variety of artistic performances. Other annual events include the Moja African-American Arts Festival, the Worldfest Charleston International Film Festival, the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition, the Charleston Food and Wine Festival, the Christmas Parade of Boats, and the Christmas in Charleston Celebration. As an early colonial city, Charleston is replete with museums and historical attractions. The Old Exchange and Customs House in downtown Charleston ranks with Boston’s Faneuil Hall and Philadelphia’s Independence Hall as one of the three most important Colonial buildings in the country. Charleston is also home to Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired, and Fort Moultrie, the site of a critical British defeat in the Revolutionary War. Patriot’s Point, located across the river in nearby Mount Pleasant, is home to the USS Yorktown and several other naval vessels.
The median price of homes currently listed is $383,000 while the median price of homes that sold is $284,400. The median rent price is $1,850.
27.) Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Population: 178,752
Median Home Price: $294,300
Median Household Income: $48,898
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.76
Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is a city located on the coast in southeast Florida. It is located a half an hour north of Miami. It is part of the South Florida metropolitan area. The city is known as the “Venice of America” because of its extensive canal system. The economy of Fort Lauderdale relies heavily on tourism. Even with its heavy reliance on tourism, Fort Lauderdale is also home to several Fortune 1000 company headquarters. Several more Fortune 1000 company headquarters are located in nearby Miami. Fort Lauderdale has a hot, sub-tropical climate. Average daily temperature ranges from a low of 76 in January to a high of 90 in July and August. Fort Lauderdale occasionally experiences brief periods of cold during the winter, but otherwise is warm or hot. Fort Lauderdale’s beach front is home to upscale shops, restaurants and nightclubs.
The median home value is $294,300. The home values have gone up 5.3% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will fall -0.4% within the next year. The median price of homes currently listed is $494,900 while the median price of homes that sold is $335,700. The median rent price is $1,975.
26.) Dallas, Texas
Population: 1,318,000
Median Home Price: $220,900
Median Household Income: $38,790
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.93
Dallas is one of the largest cities in the United States, and is located at the center of the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metropolitan area. It is located in northeast Texas, approximately an hour and a half south of the Texas/Oklahoma border. It is home to almost 10 Fortune 500 companies, including household names such as Halliburton, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. If interests turn more to the evening dining and nightclub scene, Dallas has plenty to offer. Good destinations for fine dining and nightclubs include: Deep Ellum – named after Elm Street (pronounced with a southern drawl), Greenville Avenue, Knox-Henderson, the West Village, and the West End.
The median home value is $220,900. The home values have gone up 9.2% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will rise 2.9% within the next year. The median price of homes currently listed in this area is $320,000 while the median price of homes that sold is $245,800. The median rent price is $1,650.
25.) Baltimore, Maryland
Population: 621,849
Median Home Price: $124,400
Median Household Income: $44,165
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.88
Baltimore, situated in northern Maryland on the Patapsco River estuary above Chesapeake Bay, is the largest city in the state. Northwest of downtown is Mount Vernon, home of Baltimore’s Washington Monument and the Walters Art Gallery. Nearby Annapolis, seat of the US Naval Academy, has an old-town feel, with many historic homes and buildings. Other historic sites and museums include the Baltimore Museum of Art, Maryland Historical Society, Baltimore Civil War Museum, Baltimore Public Works Museum, USS Constellation, Baltimore Maritime Museum, Baltimore Museum of Industry, Port Discovery, Contemporary Museum and Mount Clare. The Babe Ruth Museum reminds thousands of visitors annually that baseball’s greatest player was born in Baltimore. Baltimore has an energetic nightlife, the “SoWeBo” area, much like New York City’s SoHo, is a bohemian district popular with artists and free thinkers. Fells Point, one of the city’s oldest and ethnically-varied neighborhoods, is now a revitalized hotspot loaded with shops, restaurants, bars and clubs. And, of course, Baltimore has some of the best seafood (especially crabs and crab cakes) in the country.
The median home value is $124,400. The home values have gone up 4.5% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will rise 2.5% within the next year. The median rent price is $1,300.
24.) Las Vegas, Nevada
Population: 632,912
Median Home Price: $241,800
Median Household Income: $58,432
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.50
Las Vegas, located in southern Nevada near the Colorado River, is the largest city in the state. Though not known for its culture, Las Vegas is home to the Las Vegas Art Museum, a branch of the Guggenheim Museum and large collections of Picassos and other top artists on display in hotel lobbies. More in keeping with the city’s lowbrow reputation are the Elvis-a-Rama Museum, the Guinness World of Records Museum and the Liberace Museum. Musical entertainment is available nightly up and down the strip, and not just cheesy hotel-run extravaganzas. The biggest acts in rock and pop music make Las Vegas an important stop on their tours. Las Vegas is famous for its world-class nightlife, with some of the finest restaurants in the country, musical productions at every turn, a myriad of family-based and (ahem) adult-themed entertainment options, and (of course) gambling.
The median home value is $241,800. The home values have gone up 14.9% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will rise 5.4% within the next year. The median price of homes currently listed is $285,000 while the median price of homes that sold is $240,500. The median rent price is $1,350.
23.) Anchorage, Alaska
Population: 298,695
Median Home Price: $300,000
Median Household Income: $78,121
Price of a dozen eggs: $4.76
The city of Anchorage is located in the south-central part of Alaska at the base of the Chugach Mountains. The largest city in the state, Anchorage encompasses an area of nearly 2,000 square miles, about the size of the state of Delaware. Anchorage is a major port city, receiving the bulk of all freight entering Alaska. Major industries in the city include government (military), oil, and tourism (summer being a prime tourist season). Downtown Anchorage is home to the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts, a facility which hosts numerous performing arts events each year. As the host site of eight resident performing arts companies, the center is a thriving visitor attraction which also hosts the International Ice Carving Competition as part of February’s Fur Rendezvous Festival.
The median home value is $300,000. The home values have gone up 3.0% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will rise 5.3% within the next year. The median price of homes currently listed is $298,800. The median rent price is $1,685.
22.) Hartford, Connecticut
Population: 123,243
Median Home Price: $131,000
Median Household Income: $62,590
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.83
Hartford is Connecticut’s state capital and is a diverse city, where history, culture, architecture, business, education, and economic development combine to form a very livable place. Hartford has an active nightlife that offers something for everyone. Hartford ranks in the top six percent among North American cities for the arts. The city is home to more than 200 cultural, arts, and heritage organizations. The Antiquarian and Landmarks Society offers historical tours of 12 landmark homes in the Hartford area. The Connecticut Fire Museum offers visitors a collection of hundreds of early American firefighting memorabilia. Cinestudio offers a premier movie theater experience with new releases and classic cinema. The Greater Hartford Arts Council has a constantly updated calendar of arts, performance, and cultural events. The Hartford Advocate has a calendar of dining, arts, and film to liven up any nighttime outing. The city also has a wide variety of nightclubs, concerts, and comedy shows. Concerts, clubs, and parties are numerous on any given night in the city of Hartford.
The median price of homes currently listed is $131,000. The median rent price is $1,100.
21.) Jersey City, New Jersey
Population: 264,152
Median Home Price: $432,800
Median Household Income: $58,907
Price of a dozen eggs: $4.09
Considered part of the New York metropolitan area, Jersey City is a close neighbor to Manhattan, separated only be the Hudson River. A significant port of entry, the city serves as an important industrial and commercial center for the region and benefits from its close proximity to Manhattan due to the spillover effect from several of New York City’s large businesses. Jersey City still reflects the flavors and influences of the international populations that call the city home. An urban sophistication exists in the downtown area, from the waterfront landmark Colgate Clock through the Powerhouse Arts District, home to some of the city’s many talented artists. To sample just a few of the multicultural influences in Jersey City, one must start with the vast array of food options.
The median home value is $432,800. The home values have gone up 23.8% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will rise 8.1% within the next year. The median price of homes currently listed is $450,000. The median rent price is $2,085.
20.) Nashville, Tennessee
Population: 1,869,000
Median Home Price: $247,700
Median Annual Household Income: $61,577
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.45
Nashville is most notably known as the center of the music industry. It is the center of the healthcare, banking and transportation industries. The city has a vibrant music and entertainment scene spanning a variety of genres. There are numerous music clubs and honky-tonk bars that can be found downtown, which is referred to as the District. Nashville is benefiting from a growing population of young people ages 15 to 34. This group, mostly millennials and generation Z, is estimated to grow as much as four times the nation’s average over the next five years. Real estate investors see Nashville having a lot of colleges and universities as attractive component. The city is starting to benefit from the trend of more students staying upon graduating.
The median home value in Nashville is $247,700. Nashville home values have gone up 12.5% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will rise 4.1% within the next year. The median list price per square foot in Nashville is $196/ While the the median price of homes is currently listed at $335,000, the average price of homes that sold is $244,600. Most people pay around $1,600 in rent.
19.) Minneapolis, Minnesota
Population: 3,555,500
Median Home Price: $244,300
Median Household Income: $72,629
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.18
Minneapolis is a young city with modern skyscrapers compared to other large cities in the United States. It has been compared to an East Coast U.S. city or a European city because it is filled with quaint neighborhoods and a vast collection of well preserved late-Victorian architecture. Minneapolis is the capital for the arts of the Upper Midwest because it has cultural organizations and events that draw creative people and audiences to the city for theater, visual art, writing, and music. The city is abundantly rich in water with over twenty lakes and wetlands, the Mississippi river, creeks and waterfalls.
The median home value in Minneapolis is $244,300. Minneapolis home values have gone up 5.8% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will rise 3.9% within the next year
18.) Austin, Texas
Population: 2,0653,500
Median Home price: $335,700
Median Annual Household Income: $67,195
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.84
Austin is the state capital of Texas. The city has a heavy concentration of highly-educated millennials. Home to the University of Texas flagship campus, Austin is known for its eclectic live-music scene centered around country, blues and rock. One major event, South by Southwest, is one of the largest music festivals in the U.S., with more than 2,000 performers playing on more than 100 stages around Downtown Austin over four days every March. The event has grown into a 10-day festival celebrating film, music and digital media. Its many parks and lakes are popular for hiking, biking, swimming and boating. South of the city, Formula One’s Circuit of the Americas raceway has hosted the United States Grand Prix.
The median home value in Austin is $335,700. Austin home values have gone up 8.4% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will rise 2.0% within the next year.
17.) Chicago, Illinois
Population: 2,705,000
Median Home Price: $267,700
Median Household Income: $68,670
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.87
The third most populous city in the U.S., Chicago also has stunning architecture, an iconic art museum and baseball field, a Great Lake, and a startup scene. It’s said to have the most diversified economy in the U.S., with finance, retail, manufacturing, printing, food processing, and transportation all large industries here. The only mystery about Chicago is why it’s as (relatively) affordable as it is. The cost to live comfortably here is $68,670, more than $15,000 a year less than New York or LA, the other two of the three biggest cities in the nation.
The median home value in Chicago is $221,000. Chicago home values have gone up 1.8% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will rise 2.5% within the next year. The median list price per square foot is $192. With the the median price of homes currently listed at $285,000, the median price of homes that sold is $267,700. Most people place around $1,7000 a month in rent.
16.) Atlanta, Georgia
Population: 5,802,100
Median Home Price: $310,000
Median Household Income: $62,437
Price of a dozen eggs: $3.05
Atlanta is the fifth largest population in the U.S. with 5.8 million residents. It is considered to be a top business city and a primary transportation hub of the Southeastern U.S. The city contains the world headquarters of corporations such as Coca-Cola, Home Depot, UPS, Delta Air Lines and Turner Broadcasting. The unique cultural combination reveals itself at the High Museum of Art, the bohemian shops of Little Five Points, and the multi-cultural dining choices found along Buford Highway. Atlanta hosts a variety of history museums and attractions, including the Atlanta History Center and the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site.
The median home value in Atlanta is $220,900. Atlanta home values have gone up 8.8% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will rise 4.0% within the next year. The median price of homes currently listed is $310,000. The median rent price in Atlanta is $1,650.
15.) Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Population: 639,863
Median Home Price: $180,000
Median Household Income: $68,676
Price of a dozen eggs: $3.21
Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love, offers both colonial charm and modern attractions. As far as cost of living goes, Philadelphia isn’t as expensive as New York or San Francisco and there are still relative bargains to be had in the housing market. The cost of living on Philadelphia is about 25% greater than the national average cost of living. One of the main contributors to this difference in cost of living is the price of housing. Philadelphia boasts an impressive number of highly regarded restaurants in a range of price brackets. It has more chef-driven and high-end restaurants than you might expect given the size of the population, and new hot spots are opening up all the time.
People choose to live in Philadelphia for many reasons, including its historical character, employment opportunities, proximity to other areas, and the fact that the city lies on the Delaware River. Others move to the area to attend college. The median home value is $146,200. The home values have gone up 9.4% over the past year and Zillow predicts they will rise 4.9% within the next year.
14.) Portland, Oregon
Population: 639,863
Median Home Price: $411,200
Median Household Income: $68,676
Price of a dozen eggs: $3.21
Despite a large population, Portland is home to just one big publicly traded company with annual sales over $3 billion: Nike, based in Beaverton. But the limited big corporate presence has not stopped recent college grads from flocking to Portland for its outdoor recreational opportunities, as well as its progressive and environmentally friendly scene. The influx of educated young adults has been a boon to the $157 billion economy, with household incomes up 4% annually since 2011 and unemployment falling below 4% from a peak of 11.3% in 2009. Portland now has the ninth-highest concentration of highly educated millennials based on data from Experian.
13.) Denver, Colorado
Population: 2,857,700
Median Home Price: $407,700
Median Household Income: $73,250
Price of a dozen eggs: $3.42
Denver’s relatively central location makes it a natural location as a distribution hub for the American west, while also supporting a number of growing industries in technology and telecommunications. The location, just east of the mineral-rich Rocky Mountain range, encouraged mining and energy companies to spring up in the area, making the energy industry another staple of Denver’s economy. Colorado’s capital is home to many nationally recognized museums, the second largest performing arts center in the nation after Lincoln Center in New York City, and bustling neighborhoods such as LoDo (lower downtown), filled with art galleries, restaurants, bars and clubs. Denver has gained a reputation as being a very active, outdoor oriented city because of its proximity to the mountains and generally sunny weather.
Just two years ago, metro Denver’s annual rate of appreciation on the Zillow home price index was 15.5 percent, three times faster than the U.S. rate.
12.) Stamford, Connecticut
Population: 129,113
Median Home Price: $480,000
Median Household Income: $77,221
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.10
With its close proximity to New York City, Stamford has long been home to wealthy commuters. In fact, despite its relatively small population, the Connecticut city has one of the highest concentrations of millionaires in the country. But as expensive as Stamford’s living costs are, they are still less than the Big Apple. (More on the cost of living in New York City later.) If there’s another upside to be found, it’s in transportation costs. Extensive commuter rail links to New York and its position in the Northeast rail corridor help make getting around only 11% more expensive than the national average, according to the Cost of Living Index.
11.) Seattle, Washington
Population: 704,352
Median Home Price: $727,400
Median Household Income: $80,000
Price of a dozen eggs: $3.49
Coffee isn’t the only thing that’s strong in Seattle. The local economy is, too, and that’s putting upward pressure on prices. As one of the nation’s fastest growing cities, Seattle’s housing market is hot, driven in part by a booming tech scene. (Microsoft and Amazon are both based in the area, as are many smaller high-tech companies.) Housing-related costs for renters and homeowners are nearly 80% higher than the U.S. average, according to the Cost of Living Index, and they’re only going up. Real estate-tracker Zillow expects home prices in the Emerald City to rise another 5.6%.
Seattle has gained a lot of cachet in the last few years, and its booming economy, driven by Microsoft and Amazon hasn’t hurt. With a constant influx of new people arriving in the area it’s no wonder it costs $80,000 to live comfortably here.
10.) Miami, Florida
Population: 453,000
Median Home Price: $306,000
Median Annual Household Income: $51,362
Price of a dozen eggs: $3.61
South Florida: Famous for its art deco architecture, white sand beaches (particularly the South Beach stretch), and hot, sunny climate. It’s home to Art Basel, which attracts upwards of one hundred thousand art aficionados from across the world each year, and boasts an active nightlife scene. Unfortunately, it has also become one of the most expensive American cities, which doesn’t bode well with its ranking as the second most desired city by millennials
Miami is the only southern city that ranks in the top 10 most expensive American cities list. In the last decade, an influx of wealthy foreigners, international financial companies, and the cruise industry have driven up prices in Miami. The city’s average household income is approximately $51,362 (slightly below the national average), with the unemployment rate stands at 4.4% (slightly above the national average).
Home prices continue to rise, with buyers spending an average of 49% of their income on a home. Rent prices aren’t much better, and Miami ranks as the 9th most expensive city in the US for renters. A one-bedroom apartment costs an average of $1,800 and a two-bedroom apartment rents for an average of $2,500, according to Zumper. It is estimated that it takes an annual salary of $77,000 to live well in Miami. The cost of living in Miami is 14% higher than the national average, but there are some savings! Utilities are actually -2% to the national average.
9.) Los Angeles, California
Population: 4,000,000
Median Home Price: $470,000
Median Annual Household Income: $49,745
Price of a dozen eggs: $4.40
Los Angeles: famous for its glitzy Hollywood scene, notorious for its traffic, and unfortunately boasts a cost of living 43% higher than the national average… The second most populous city in the US after New York with a population of 4 million, the ‘city of angels’ isn’t just known for the film industry: in fact, it has a booming shipping industry, as the Port of Los Angeles is one of the busiest ports in the world. A bustling manufacturing sector and thriving start-up scene also contribute to the city’s high cost of living.
Los Angeles boasts some of the most expensive neighborhoods in the US, among them Beverly Hills, which had a median price of $3.85 million, and Brentwood, where Dr. Dre purchased an 8 bedroom ‘castle’ (complete with moat) from Tom Brady and Gisele for $40 million in 2014. These neighborhoods help drive up housing costs, which does not bode well for the 20% of the city’s residents who live in poverty. Rental prices aren’t much better, with the average one bedroom going for $2,200, and the average two-bedroom costing $3,200. It is estimated that it takes an annual salary of $74,000 to live well in Los Angeles.
8.) San Diego, California
Population: 1,406,622
Median Home Price: $601,200
Median Annual Household Income: $71,481
Price of a dozen eggs: $3.86
Situated on the coast of southern California, San Diego is paradise for beach lovers and called officially nicknamed ‘America’s Finest City.’ It boasts the benefits and excitement of a big city, contrasted with the chill vibes of a laid-back surf community. The city is home to the largest naval fleet in the world, several wireless manufacturers (Nokia amongst them), and – with 400+ biotech companies – is the second-largest biotech cluster in the country. it is the eighth largest city in the United States. There are over 100 languages spoken in San Diego due to an influx people coming in from all parts of the world.
Houses are expensive in San Diego, with the mean price over $600,000. Rental prices fare better than some of the other most expensive American cities, with one-bedrooms going for $1,888 and 2 bedrooms for $2,250. It is estimated that it takes an annual salary of $70,000 to live well in San Diego. The cost of living in San Diego is 44% higher than the national average; groceries are 12% higher, utilities 14% higher, and transportation 28% higher.
7.) San Jose, California
San Jose State University
Population: 1,025,000
Median Home Price: $805,000
Median Annual Household Income: $83,787
Price of a dozen eggs: $2.74
San Jose, considered the “Capital of Silicon Valley,” is the largest city in Northern California and the third most populated city in California, with a population north of 1 million. Located on the southern end of San Francisco’s Bay, t is one of the wealthiest cities in the US. Major companies located in San Jose include Cisco Systems, eBay, Adobe Systems, PayPal, and Samsung.
The cost of living is high in San Jose (48% higher than the national average), and, with a median home price of $1,085,000, the city has the most expensive housing market in the US. Compared to the national average, it’s 148% higher! Rental prices are high as well, with a one bedroom apartment going for $2,445 and a two bedroom for $2,850. Though the city’s median annual income is $83,787, it is still nearly $6,000 less than the amount needed to live comfortably. At least eggs are cheap at $2.74 per dozen.
6.) Oakland, California
Photo: blog.extraspace.com
Population: 400,000
Median Home Price: $729,200
Median Annual Household Income: $52,962
Price of a dozen eggs: $4.04
Known as “Brooklyn by the Bay” and named for its abundance of oak trees, Oakland is an ethnically diverse city 12 miles east of San Francisco. With a population of 400,000, it’s the 8th largest city in California and home to an international airport, Oakland International Airport. Major corporations located in Oakland include Ask.com, Clorox, Kaiser Permanente, and Pandora. While Oakland is known as a cheaper alternative to San Francisco, as prices in San Francisco have continued to rise, more and more people have made the move to Oakland, causing the city to become one of the most expensive American cities. The cost of living in Oakland is nearly 50% higher than the national average.
A one bedroom apartment in Oakland averages $2,125, and a two bedroom $2,340. Compared to the national average, the cost of groceries are 25% higher, and utilities 13% higher. A nice dinner for two at an Italian restaurant will cost around $83. It is estimated that it takes an annual salary of $80,000 to live well in Oakland.
5.) Honolulu, Hawaii
Population: 402,500
Median Home Price: $686,900
Median Annual Household Income: $70,093
Price of a dozen eggs: $4.94
Many people see Hawaii as a paradise filled with gorgeous beaches and breathtaking mountains — an ideal vacation destination. But the residents of this state are living in one of the most expensive places in the United States. Honolulu, home to famed Waikiki Beach and volcanic Diamond Head is one of the most expensive American cities.
Rental prices in Honolulu aren’t necessarily the highest in the country: The average renter pays around $2,733 per month. A large chunk of a resident’s monthly salary will go toward bills and food, which are significantly higher than most American cities. Monthly utilities are 71% higher than the rest of the country, and grocery prices are 55% more than the average price in other American cities. A dozen of eggs will cost you $4.94 on the island paradise. On the plus side, the city has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country at 2.3% as of September 2017.
4.) Washington, D.C.
Population: 682,000
Median Home Price: $545,000
Median Annual Household Income: $59,980
Price of a dozen eggs: $3.37
It’s no shock that Washington, D.C. has one of the highest costs of living in the country. The capital is not only a political haven, it is home to big federal agencies that are full of high-paying government and private-sector jobs. The city’s high costs of housing and high rental prices account for its overall expensive price tag. One-bedroom homes in the heart of the city go for around $392,000, and if your family is bigger, you can expect to pay $600,000 and upwards. For a one-bedroom apartment, the average rent is about $2,200. Utility bills are at a normal $120, but the prices of groceries are higher than most American cities.
Entertainment in D.C. can be on the cheaper side if you’re on a budget. The city is full of museums and monuments that you can enjoy for free. But any other type of fun, like a dinner out for two, can cost you more than $50. Overall, you’ll need an annual income of $83,000 to live well in the capital city.
3.) Boston, Massachusettes
Population: 647,883
Median Home Price: $507,964
Median Annual Household Income: $59,443
Price of a dozen eggs: $3.58
Boston is an academic paradise, housing some of the nation’s most prestigious universities and booming tech companies. It’s seated on the beautiful Charles River and is full of both Massachusetts natives and eager transplants alike. While the city houses 34% of the nation’s university students, the cost of living does not necessarily reflect that. Monthly expenses are very similar to that of D.C.’s: its about $2,310 for a one-bedroom apartment, and the average house value is $374,000. Groceries and utilities are about 20% higher than the rest of the country. Bostonians shell out a lot of money to live in the historical city but still pay about 12% less than their neighbors in New York City. Altogether, you’ll require about $84,000 a year to live well in Boston.
2.) San Francisco, California
Jared Erondu
Population: 864,816
Median Home Price: $1,293,600
Median Annual Household Income: $78,378
Price of a dozen eggs: $5.30
The West Coast has its fair share of costly cities. California is home to some of the priciest ZIP codes in the country, and San Francisco tops this list. With its expensive housing market and its astronomical rental prices, living in The Golden City could cost you an arm and a leg.
San Francisco is an enclave of startups and big names in tech like AirBnB and Uber, attracting many inhabitants to the city and its surrounding areas. The booming tech industry, diverse arts scene and the year-round mild weather are more than enough to keep drawing people to the city on the Bay. The cost of living, on the other hand, is not so inviting. A one-bedroom apartment in the heart of the city averages about $3,590 per month, and in the not-so-central areas of the city, rent averages $2,925 a month. It is estimated that it takes a salary of $119,000 a month to live well in the city. However, the unemployment rate in the city is some of the lowest in the country, at 2.6%. Enjoying lunch out in the business district will cost you around $16, and if you don’t have a car, using public transportation to get around will cost you $82 per month.
1.) New York City (Manhattan), New York
Population: 8.538 million
Median Home Price: $1,396,100
Median Annual Household Income: $75,575
Price of a dozen eggs: $4.87
Eating an apple in the Big Apple will cost you significantly more than most cities in the country. New York City, known as the city where dreams come true, is also known for being one of the most expensive cities in the world. Many people move to New York City every year for a multitude of reasons, but an estimated 1 million people have moved out of the city and the surrounding area since 2010.
Nevertheless, NYC continues to be the most populated city in the country, and that’s not projected to change anytime soon. So, just how much would you be paying to live in New York City? An average one-bedroom apartment goes for $3,340 in Manhattan, although with a roommate, you’re looking at a little bit more than half of that. A two-bedroom in Manhattan averages $3,895 per month. Apart from rent, transportation and utilities make up a huge chunk of expenses as well.
Lucky for New Yorkers, the city is extremely well connected with one of the best subway systems in the world. However, this comes at a price. Monthlong MTA passes cost $116, and a one-day pass goes for $2.75.
Depending on the season, your utility bill will vary per month. In winter, the temperatures dip pretty low, which will hike up your electricity bill. Everyone always talks about the hot, sticky Manhattan summers, so you’ll probably want to blast the AC at any chance you get. Statistics show the average combined utility bill being $127, with prices varying based on square footage and occupants.
Manhattan also has some of the highest food prices in the nation. Groceries are at least 30% higher than the national average, and enjoying a nice dinner out can cost you 50% more than the national average. Basically, the list of expensive things in New York doesn’t really end. What are the positives? The city’s unemployment rate was at 4.6% percent at the end of 2017, which is pretty healthy. Plus, you get to live in the city that never sleeps. As expensive American cities go, that’s got to be a plus, right?