Cost of living in the USA

The American Cost of Living Index is a useful tool for comparing the cost of living in different states. An index value above 100 indicates above-average costs, while a value below 95 signals a relatively favorable living environment. These differences are mainly due to the cost of housing, food, services and transportation.

There are some regions in the USA that are known for their high cost of living. These include the coastal regions and large metropolitan areas in particular. At the top of the list for 2023 are:

• Hawaii (192.9): Known for its breathtaking nature, but also extremely high cost of living.

• California (151.7): Housing and living costs are particularly high in cities such as San Francisco and Los Angeles.

• New York (139.1): New York City is a magnet for people from all over the world, which drives up prices.

• Oregon (134.2) & Massachusetts (131.6): Both states offer a high quality of life, which is also reflected in the Cost of Living Index.

For those looking for a more affordable living environment, states in the Midwest and South are the best choices. The states with the lowest cost of living in 2023 are:

• Mississippi (86.1): Offers affordable housing and a low cost of living.

• Arkansas (86.9) & Oklahoma (87.0): Both states are known for their affordable prices and high quality of life.

• Missouri (87.1) & New Mexico (87.5): Here, too, the cost of living and services is comparatively low.

Many people considering a move to the USA compare the cost of living with that in Germany. Generally speaking, large cities in both countries are more expensive than rural regions. Metropolitan areas such as New York or San Francisco can be significantly more expensive than large German cities.

The choice of your new place of residence in the USA should be carefully considered. Comparing the cost of living in different states is an important step in making an informed decision. Whether you prefer living in the excitement of a big city or the tranquility and lower costs of rural areas, the U.S. offers a wide range of options to explore.