What makes a city the most expensive in the United States? Is it the soaring housing prices, the high cost of living, or both? In 2024, several U.S. cities are at the top of the cost-of-living charts, offering luxurious lifestyles but at a steep price. The most expensive of them all is Manhattan, where a single apartment can cost millions, and the average rent surpasses $4,500. This blog will dive into the top 10 most expensive cities in the U.S. this year.
List of 10 Most Expensive Cities in the US
- Manhattan
- Brooklyn
- Boston
- San Francisco
- San Jose
- Los Angeles
- Washington, D.C
- Orange County
- Queens
- Honolulu
1) Manhattan
Manhattan is the most expensive city in the United States. According to recent statistics, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Manhattan, which is well-known for its tall buildings, upscale lifestyle, and luxurious living, is $4,500.
With an average price per square foot of almost $1,500, Manhattan real estate is among the most expensive in the world. Budgets are further strained by grocery costs, which average $6.50 for a dozen eggs and $5.30 for a gallon of milk. Eating out is expensive; a basic dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant might easily cost $100.
Transportation costs add to the financial weight, with monthly MetroCards priced at $132, and owning a car incurs steep parking fees, averaging $570 per month. Despite the high costs, Manhattan remains a hub for opportunities and culture, housing Wall Street, Broadway, and countless iconic landmarks.
For residents and visitors, the price tag reflects access to world-class amenities, exceptional job prospects, and the unmatched allure of the “City That Never Sleeps.” However, affordability remains a significant challenge, making Manhattan a pinnacle of exclusivity.
2) Brooklyn
Once thought to be less expensive than Manhattan, Brooklyn has solidified its position as one of the most costly cities in the US in 2024. The borough today commands high housing and everyday living costs due to its trendy areas, cultural hubs, and proximity to New York City.
The typical property price in Brooklyn has increased to $1.4 million, indicating a notable increase over the last ten years, while the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $4,500 per month. The cost of daily expenses is likewise high; a dozen eggs typically cost $6.30, and a gallon of milk costs about $5.40. A mid-range supper for two in Brooklyn typically costs $90, and there are a variety of upscale restaurants and artisanal cafés to choose from.
Transportation adds to the costs, with monthly MetroCards priced at $132. However, Brooklyn’s appeal lies in its unique blend of urban living and creative energy. Areas like Williamsburg, DUMBO, and Park Slope boast vibrant art scenes, boutique shopping, and top-rated restaurants, drawing in both young professionals and families. While affordability remains a concern, Brooklyn’s charm, diversity, and cultural richness make it a coveted place to live, even at a premium.
3) Boston
Thanks to its esteemed universities, booming biotech sector, and historic beauty, Boston, Massachusetts, continues to rank among the most costly cities in the US in 2024. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Boston is $3,900 per month, the typical home price has skyrocketed to $960,000.
Daily costs are just as high. The average cost of eating out for two at a mid-range restaurant is $100, and a gallon of milk is about $5.60. Budgets are also strained by utilities, as Boston’s cold winters result in monthly energy expenditures that average $220.
Transportation costs vary; a monthly MBTA pass costs $90, providing access to the city’s subway and bus systems. For drivers, parking can cost upwards of $400 per month, and gas prices average $4.80 per gallon.
Despite the expenses, Boston’s appeal lies in its world-renowned educational institutions like Harvard and MIT, cutting-edge industries, and rich cultural offerings, from the Boston Symphony Orchestra to Fenway Park. The city’s walkable neighborhoods, historical significance, and high quality of life make it a desirable yet costly place to call home.
4) San Francisco
San Francisco’s thriving tech sector, famous buildings, and cultural attractions continue to make it one of the most costly cities in the US in 2024. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is about $3,500, the typical property price has skyrocketed to an eye-watering $1.9 million.
Daily necessities are likewise more expensive. A loaf of bread typically costs $5.50, and a gallon of milk costs almost $6. In San Francisco, eating out is considered a luxury, as a typical supper for two may easily cost $120. Public transportation costs, like a monthly Muni pass at $81, are reasonable compared to housing, but gas prices exceed $6 per gallon, adding to car ownership costs.
Despite these expenses, San Francisco offers a lifestyle that is hard to rival. From its world-renowned tech scene and entrepreneurial opportunities to iconic attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and a thriving arts culture, the city remains a dream destination for many. However, the high costs have sparked ongoing debates about affordability and the challenges of retaining a diverse community.
5) San Jose
San Jose, the unofficial capital of Silicon Valley, is among the most costly cities in the US. The cost of living here is astounding due to the country’s thriving tech-driven economy. With a typical property price of $1.85 million and an average monthly rent of $2,500 for a one-bedroom apartment, housing prices are very high.
Even though IT professions pay well, San Jose’s everyday expenses are comparable to the wealth of its employees. With necessities like a loaf of bread costing roughly $4.90 and a gallon of milk costing $5.80, groceries are 30% more expensive than the national average. Dining out reflects the city’s affluence, with a mid-range meal for two easily costing $100.
Transportation is another expense, with gas prices hovering around $5.90 per gallon, and public transit passes costing $90 per month. Despite these costs, the city’s proximity to major tech giants like Apple, Google, and Meta, combined with excellent schools and a thriving cultural scene, makes San Jose a magnet for ambitious professionals. However, its exclusivity comes at a hefty price, making affordability a constant challenge for many.
6) Los Angeles
In 2024, Los Angeles, the global center of entertainment, is still among the priciest cities in the US. LA, which is well-known for its glitzy way of life, expansive neighborhoods, and thriving industry, offers both opportunities and a high cost of living.
With the median property price at $1.1 million and the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment at $2,700, housing is a major consideration. LA’s premium is also reflected in daily spending, as a loaf of bread costs $4.80 and a gallon of milk costs $5.40. Although eating out is popular in this gastronomic paradise, a moderately priced dinner for two can easily cost more than $100.
Transportation costs are substantial, with gas prices averaging $5.80 per gallon and the notorious traffic often necessitating long commutes. Public transit options, while affordable at $50 for a monthly pass, don’t always meet the sprawling city’s needs.
Despite these costs, LA offers unparalleled perks: access to Hollywood, iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory, and year-round sunshine. While affordability is a challenge, the city’s dynamic culture, career opportunities, and global influence ensure it remains a top destination.
7) Washington, D.C.
The nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., is among the most costly cities in the US in 2024 due to its historical significance, strong job market, and political significance.
With a typical home price of $775,000 and an average monthly rent of $2,400 for a one-bedroom apartment, housing continues to be a significant expense. Daily essentials are likewise more expensive; a gallon of milk costs around $5.50, and two people can eat at a mid-range restaurant for about $90.
Transportation is both a convenience and a cost in D.C., with Metro fares ranging from $2 to $6 per trip, and monthly passes costing $81. For drivers, gas prices average $4.90 per gallon, alongside high parking fees in the city’s downtown areas.
Despite these costs, Washington, D.C., offers unparalleled opportunities and amenities. It boasts a strong job market in government, law, and international relations, alongside free access to world-class museums like the Smithsonian Institution. The city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and political influence ensure its status as a sought-after yet expensive place to live.
8) Orange County
Known for its luxurious lifestyle and stunning coastline, Orange County, California, is one of the most costly areas in the US. Its location between Los Angeles and San Diego, along with well-known landmarks like Disneyland, Laguna Beach, and Newport Beach, add to its appeal and exorbitant cost of living.
With a median home price of $1.2 million and an average monthly rent of $2,300 for a one-bedroom apartment, housing is the biggest expense. With a gallon of milk costing $5.80 and monthly electricity bills exceeding $250, groceries and utilities are equally expensive. Dining out is a luxurious experience, with a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costing around $90.
Transportation costs are high, with gas prices exceeding $5.60 per gallon, reflecting California’s statewide fuel rates. Despite these expenses, Orange County offers an unmatched lifestyle with world-class beaches, excellent schools, and thriving job markets in tech, healthcare, and tourism. For residents, the blend of natural beauty, economic opportunities, and vibrant culture offsets the financial burden, making Orange County a dream destination for many, albeit an expensive one.
9) Queens
One of the five boroughs of New York City, Queens, is becoming more and more known as one of the priciest areas in the US to reside in 2024. Queens, which is well-known for its lively districts, cultural diversity, and proximity to Manhattan, provides a premium pricing point that combines home charm with urban accessibility.
In Queens, the median property price has increased to $850,000, indicating a significant increase due to rising demand, while the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is about $2,300 per month. The cost of daily living is also high; for example, a dozen eggs typically cost $6.10, and a gallon of milk costs about $5.20. At a mid-range restaurant, a meal for two usually costs $80.
Transportation is slightly more affordable compared to car-centric cities, with the monthly MetroCard priced at $132, offering access to the subway and buses. Gas prices, however, average $5.10 per gallon for drivers.
Queens’ allure lies in its unmatched diversity, with over 130 languages spoken and neighborhoods like Flushing, Astoria, and Long Island City offering unique cultural and culinary experiences. Its proximity to two major airports—JFK and LaGuardia—further enhances its appeal. While costly, Queens delivers a dynamic, global experience that many find worth the investment.
10) Honolulu
Because of its breathtaking island location and high cost of living, Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii, is one of the most costly cities in the US. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city is over $2,000.
Because of the difficulties in importing commodities, groceries and utilities are very expensive in Honolulu. A loaf of bread can cost more than $5, while a gallon of milk costs about $7.50. Similar premium pricing is seen when dining out; on average, a lunch for two at a mid-range restaurant costs $85. Due to Hawaii’s reliance on imported oil, electricity costs are among the highest in the nation, averaging $300 a month.
Housing prices are equally steep, with the median home value reaching $1.1 million, making property ownership a significant challenge for residents. Despite the costs, Honolulu offers an unparalleled lifestyle with year-round warm weather, pristine beaches, and a vibrant mix of cultures.
Tourism continues to drive the economy, and while the cost of living is high, the city’s breathtaking beauty and quality of life ensure its enduring appeal to both residents and visitors.
| No. | City | Average Monthly Rent 2024 | Average Housing Price 2024 |
| 1 | Manhattan | $4,500 | $1.5 million |
| 2 | Brooklyn | $4,500 | $850,000 |
| 3 | Boston | $3,900 | $948,000 |
| 4 | San Francisco | $3,500 | $1.2 million |
| 5 | San Jose | $2,500 | $1.4 million |
| 6 | Los Angeles | $2,700 | $1.2 million |
| 7 | Washington, D.C | $2,400 | $608,000 |
| 8 | Orange County | $2,300 | $1.3 million |
| 9 | Queens | $2,300 | $600,000 |
| 10 | Honolulu | $2,000 | $618,500 |
Conclusion
The steep costs in these cities can be attributed to a mix of factors, including high demand for housing, booming job markets, and limited space for expansion. Cities like Manhattan, San Francisco, and Los Angeles draw residents with their economic opportunities, cultural vibrancy, and world-class amenities, making them magnets for professionals and tourists alike.
The rising demand for housing often outpaces the supply, pushing property prices and rent to astronomical levels. While these cities offer unparalleled living experiences, the price tag reflects their status as hubs of innovation, entertainment, and history, making them both coveted and costly places to live.
FAQs
What Is the Most Unaffordable City in the US?
Manhattan is the most unaffordable city in 2024, with soaring housing costs and a cost-of-living index well above the national average.
Which City Has the Highest Rent in the USA?
Manhattan has the highest rent, with the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment exceeding $4,500 per month.
Which City Has the Lowest Rent in the USA?
Wichita, Kansas, offers the lowest rent, with one-bedroom apartments averaging around $800 per month.
What Is the #1 Best State to Live In?
Massachusetts ranks #1 due to its strong economy, top-rated healthcare, and world-class education system.
