Think your rent is bad? Welcome to cities where budgets get crushed. In 2024-25, NYC tops the charts with the average rent for a 1-bed home at $4,340, followed by SF at $3,195. Yet, SF’s population grew by 0.6% so far this year. Clearly, some folks thrive on challenges.
Besides, 143K jobs were created in January 2025, lowering the unemployment rate to 4%. But don’t be too concerned about these numbers if you make more than the median $43,289 per capita income. Here’s our selection of where to look for your next luxury home!
10 Most Expensive Cities in USA in 2025
We have considered the cost of living, median household income, median house value, and median rent price to create this list. Here are the top 10 most expensive cities in the US to live in 2025.
| City | Cost of Living | Median Household Income | Median House Value | Median Rent |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. New York City, NY | 131% ⬆️ | $101,078 | $1,010,800 | $5,025 |
| 2. Los Angeles, CA | 50% ⬆️ | $79,701 | $885,000 | $2,750 |
| 3. San Diego, CA | 43% ⬆️ | $108,352 | $949,000 | $2,690 |
| 4. Anaheim, CA | 52% ⬆️ | $122,192 | $906,000 | $2,590 |
| 5. San Francisco, CA | 71% ⬆️ | $159,665 | $1,400,000 | $2,690 |
| 6. San Jose, CA | 76% ⬆️ | $170,034 | $1,405,000 | $3,170 |
| 7. Providence, RI | 77% ⬆️ | $96,338 | $852,000 | $2,830 |
| 8. Riverside, CA | 74.4% ⬆️ | $90,677 | $640,000 | $2,290 |
| 9. Miami, FL | 19% ⬆️ | $71,749 | $627,500 | $2,390 |
| 10. Sacramento, CA | 25% ⬆️ | $100,152 | $475,000 | $2,000 |
*These cities are ranked based on our research methodology.
Most Expensive Places to Live in the US
From exorbitant housing markets to steep taxes and inflated transportation costs, these urban centers may be hard on the pocket.
1. New York City, NY
- Median House Price: $1.01M
- Cost of Living: 131%⬆️
- Median Household Income: $101K
- Median Rent Price: $5,025
New York City is one of the most expensive cities to live in the US. Be it the Art-Deco Empire State Building, or the Beaux-Arts style Met, the city skyline is unique. Besides, with a vibrant street food scene, it is a favorite among food buffs.
Traveling to NYC is expensive, but living there is costlier. Rent costs more than some mortgages. But where else can you go broke just for the privilege of being in line for a cronut? In the Empire City, even going bankrupt feels iconic.
» New York City, NY Homes for Sale: Explore upmarket properties with pools in the most expensive city in the US.
2. Los Angeles, CA
- Median House Price: $885K
- Cost of Living: 50%⬆️
- Median Household Income: $79,701
- Median Rent Price: $2750
Los Angeles is all about sunshine and showbiz. Here, you can have beachside homes where the Pacific is your backyard. People come here for the glowing sand and Californication but often find sky-high housing costs instead.
Buying a home here will be your largest expense. Besides, the average healthcare and utility costs run up to $213.75 and $252.95 respectively. This makes it one of the most expensive cities to live in the US. However, the city also offers abundant jobs in entertainment and tech.
» Los Angeles, CA Homes for Sale: Explore homes in the most expensive place in America to live in by the sea.
3. San Diego, CA
- Median House Price: $949K
- Cost of Living: 43%⬆️
- Median Household Income: $108K
- Median Rent Price: $2,690
Nestled on the Pacific Coast, San Diego is one of ‘America’s Finest Cities’ for a reason. With stunning beaches, surfing, and Comic-Con International, there is something for everyone here. Besides, job seekers would find ample scope in defense, tourism, and trade.
Most properties in the city offer rooftop swimming pools, large backyards, and direct access to a helipad. But then, if you don’t have a copter, this property is probably not for you. Paying a million just to land a helicopter you don’t even own sounds a bit out there, doesn’t it?
» San Diego, CA Homes for Sale: Find your dream property with backyard and swimming pool in the most expensive city to live in USA.
4. Anaheim, CA
- Median House Price: $906K
- Cost of Living: 52%⬆️
- Median Household Income: $122K
- Median Rent Price: $2,590
Home to Disneyland, Anaheim is where dreams come true—if you can afford them. Beyond the Disney magic, it has several hiking trails and sports hubs. But living here isn’t all fairy tales, especially when the median home price hits $906K.
Besides, rent is around $2,590 monthly, which makes even a basic condo feel luxurious. So while the job market thrives, the cost of living still makes many reconsider their decision. Top employers in the city include Disneyland Resort, Kaiser Foundation Hospital, etc.
» Anaheim, CA Homes for Sale: Explore homes with roof pools in one of the cities with the highest cost of living in the US.
5. San Francisco, CA
- Median House Price: $1.4M
- Cost of Living: 71%⬆️
- Median Household Income: $159K
- Median Rent Price: $2,690
San Francisco pairs postcard-perfect views of the Golden Gate Bridge with world-class infrastructure. Dedicated bike lanes and a focus on pedestrians have made it the 2nd most walkable city in the US. A hub for culture and tech, this city is a dream destination for many.
Moving to the City by the Bay may seem like a no-brainer. But behind the skyline and success stories lies a brutal reality. The city’s high state-income tax rates, housing shortage, and high demand make it one of the most expensive cities in USA.
» San Francisco, CA Homes for Sale: Browse homes in the most costly city in USA by the Atlantic in the south.
6. San Jose, CA
- Median House Price: $1.4M
- Cost of Living: 76%⬆️
- Median Household Income: $170K
- Median Rent Price: $3,170
San Jose, the beating heart of Silicon Valley, is where tech giants like Apple and Google feed a growing economy and an affluent lifestyle. If you’ve got the chance to move here, you’re probably doing something right, as this tech hub attracts top global talent.
Be it entertainment, schools, or leisure this city ranks across them all. But don’t be fooled—money talks in SJ. Plus, limited land makes housing expensive in the ‘Capital of Silicon Valley’. This further pushes up the cost of living, which deters many from moving here.
» San Jose, CA Homes for Sale: Explore upmarket properties with pools in the costliest place in USA by the Pacific.
7. Providence, RI
- Median House Price: $496K
- Cost of Living: 12%⬆️
- Median Household Income: $66K
- Median Rent Price: $2,200
Providence, a colonial gem by the Atlantic, isn’t the first name that pops up in the most expensive city debates. But once you compare costs against median incomes, it quickly rises up the ranks. And over the years, it’s gotten more expensive.
The city’s vibrant arts scene, prestigious universities, and tech industry make it a hotspot for newcomers. Demand for housing keeps prices high. But hey, at least you get cobblestone streets, historic charm, and the WaterFire festival to distract you from lighter pockets!
» Providence, RI Homes for Sale: Find your dream home in one of the highest cost of living cities in USA.
8. Riverside, CA
- Median House Price: $640K
- Cost of Living: 74.4%⬆️
- Median Household Income: $90K
- Median Rent Price: $2,290
Once an affordable getaway from Cali’s coastal cities, the high demand for homes has driven up prices in Riverside. It is cheaper than L.A., but that gap is shrinking fast. However, the median income of $88,575 is also higher than the US median, which often offsets this gap.
Housing costs upwards of $640K and the high cost of living means Riverside ranks among the priciest cities in the US. Still, those who stick around get mountain views, a robust job market, and a somewhat affordable lifestyle—well, at least until payday rolls around!
» Riverside, CA Homes for Sale: Explore luxury mansions in the most expensive place to live in the US close to the Pacific coastline.
9. Miami, FL
- Median House Price: $627.5K
- Cost of Living: 19%⬆️
- Median Household Income: $71K
- Median Rent Price: $2,390
Miami is one of America’s most expensive cities. It has a per capita income of $72K, almost $30K higher than the US. Lavish nightclubs and $10M mansions are no surprise. And, for a view of the turquoise Atlantic water from your room, you might legit have to break the bank.
Even daily expenses can balloon quickly. The cost of living is 19% more than the US median, thanks to a parade of visitors and well-off residents. Still, Miami’s pull is real—South Beach’s art deco charm, Little Havana, and a strong business environment keep the city alive 24/7.
» Miami, FL Homes for Sale: Explore your dream home in one of the most expensive US cities to live in.
10. Sacramento, CA
- Median House Price: $475K
- Cost of Living: 25%⬆️
- Median Household Income: $100K
- Median Rent Price: $2000
Once the budget-friendly alternative to California’s coast, Sacramento now sees home prices soaring as the Bay Area transports food in. Here, even a farm-to-fork meal can be expensive. Still, compared to other major metros, housing rents are relatively affordable in this city.
Despite the high cost of living, Sacramento appeals to many. Towering trees across the streets, year-round festivities, and an easygoing vibe set it apart from its neighbors. With riverside escapes and a great economy, many think it’s worth the price.
» Sacramento, CA Homes for Sale: Find your dream mansion home with backyards in one of the most expensive cities in the US.
Are These Costliest Cities in USA Worth the Hype?
The high cost of living in these cities may undeniably be daunting due to the multiple expenses one has to incur. However, it is essential to consider the benefits these cities possess as well.
A thorough research of housing costs, employment opportunities, and lifestyle amenities is essential and critical before relocating to one of these expensive cities.
Research Methodology for the Most Expensive Cities in the US to Live
To rank the top cities in the US, we analyzed all the regions, evaluating them based on specific criteria. Below is a breakdown of the factors used and the sources of information that informed our rankings.
- Population: World Population Review[1]
- Median Home Price: Redfin[2]
- Median Rent: Zillow[3]
- Cost of Living: Rent Cafe[4]
Find Your New Home With Houzeo
With thousands of property listings, Houzeo.com is one of the biggest property listing sites in the US. Find condos, townhouses, co-ops, and other types of homes for sale on Houzeo.
» NEED MORE CLARITY? Read these exclusive Houzeo reviews and learn why the platform is the best in America’s competitive housing market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the most expensive place to live in the US?
The most expensive city in the US is New York City, NY. It has the highest cost of living at 131% higher than the national average.
Where is the best place to live in the US?
The best place to live in the US is Green Bay, followed by Huntsville, Raleigh, Boulder, Sarasota, Naples, Portland, Austin, Boise and Madison.
Is SF more expensive than NYC?
The cost of living in San Francisco, CA is about 35% lower than in New York City, although both cities still rank among the most expensive places to live in America.
What are the top 5 most expensive cities in America to live?
The the most expensive cities in the US in 2025 are are New York City, Los Angeles, San Diego, Anaheim, and San Francisco. New York City has the highest cost of living at 131% higher than the national average.
