The cost of living varies greatly throughout the United States. A certain income can stretch far in some regions of the country and hardly at all in other areas. Imagine that the median cost of a one bedroom apartment in one major US city is three times the amount of the national average. Granted, the pricier hubs are often the most desirable in terms of job opportunities, cultural offerings and other amenities, so there’s no shortage of people clamoring to live there. This list ranks the top 15 most expensive cities in the US based on a number of factors including percentage of income spent on groceries, housing, utilities, transportation and health care.
15. Providence, RI
Providence, with a population of 180K, is not only the capital of the smallest state in the US but it’s also one of the oldest cities in the country. The cost of living in this New England city is 23.3% higher than the national average. The median home value is $148,000 and utilities cost 26% more in this capital city. Renting an apartment in the city center will cost you $1,150.00 on average. Providence has lots of worthy charm, but it will impact your wallet.
14. Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia is the largest city in Pennsylvania with a population of 1.5 million, but “brotherly love” doesn’t come cheap. The cost of living in this city is 26.6% higher than the national average. The standard rent for a one bedroom apartment in Philly is $1,257 a month. A median home value is $199,100 in the metro area. Expect to spend 24% more than the national average on groceries in the land of the cheesesteak.
