5,389 cities covered · Currency: USD ($) · Capital: New York
| Expense | Estimated cost | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | $11.93 | per meal |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | $47.70 | per meal |
| Cappuccino | $3.58 | each |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | $270 | per month |
| Monthly public transport pass | $43.73 | per month |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | $115 | per month |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | $33.39 | per month |
| Fitness club membership | $33.39 | per month |
| Cinema ticket | $8.75 | each |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | $767 | per month |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | $533 | per month |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | $1,600 | per month |
New York · pop. 19,268,388
California · pop. 11,984,083
Illinois · pop. 8,609,571
Florida · pop. 6,391,670
Texas · pop. 6,227,666
Texas · pop. 5,968,322
Pennsylvania · pop. 5,782,653
Georgia · pop. 5,298,788
District of Columbia · pop. 5,230,370
Massachusetts · pop. 4,453,352
Arizona · pop. 4,121,103
Michigan · pop. 3,773,725
Washington · pop. 3,642,006
California · pop. 3,417,736
California · pop. 3,064,435
Florida · pop. 2,957,531
Minnesota · pop. 2,937,866
New York · pop. 2,736,074
Colorado · pop. 2,714,768
New York · pop. 2,405,464
California · pop. 2,333,040
Nevada · pop. 2,299,189
Maryland · pop. 2,201,673
Missouri · pop. 2,129,918
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in United States
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in United States
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in United States
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in United States
Living costs in United States vary significantly depending on city size. Large metropolitan areas with populations over one million typically see housing costs 15–30% above the national average, while smaller towns can be 10–20% below it. The national baseline of $1,328 per month represents a mid-sized city estimate.
Capital cities and major economic hubs command the highest rents and overall expenses. For budget-conscious residents, mid-sized cities offer a balance of amenities and affordability. Rural and small-town living remains the most economical option, though transport and service access may be limited.