Cost of Living in the USA

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The cost of living in the USA varies from region to region and from city to city. However, the chief cosmopolitan centres – regardless of geographical location – are the most expensive places to live in the USA.

The cost of living in a major city can be 50 percent or more above the national average. To compensate, wages in these cities do tend to be higher, but they are often not in proportion to the cost of city living.

Some cities in the USA even rank among the most expensive cities in the world. According to the Mercer Cost of Living Survey for 2022, New York City is the 7th most expensive city in the world. Another 18 US cities also make an appearance in this survey of 227 cities worldwide.

On average, expenses are lower than in Western European countries. However, some expenses that expats may be unaccustomed to will also need to be considered.

Cost of accommodation in the USA

A large portion of the high cost of living in the USA is due to expensive accommodation prices, a burden that can be somewhat alleviated by living outside city centres. In rural and suburban communities, property prices are much lower. The cost of utilities should also be kept in mind. In many parts of the USA, heating and air conditioning are also widely used throughout the year. These costs can quickly add up.

Cost of transportation in the USA

Those living outside of major cities in the USA will have to invest in a reliable vehicle for getting around. Luckily, gas (petrol) tends to be much cheaper than in Europe, but expats will need to bear in mind that consumption is also likely to be higher. The lower gas prices also translate into more affordable public transport services for commuters.

Cost of healthcare in the USA

Although the healthcare facilities in the USA are some of the world's best, the costs are quite steep. For this reason, comprehensive health insurance is essential. Expats relocating to the USA for work should find out whether this is included in their benefits.

Cost of education in the USA

The quality of public education in the USA varies widely. While public schools are free to attend, the best ones are often in expensive neighbourhoods due to the fact that schools are partly funded by property taxes. In turn, since schooling is zone-based, a good school will tend to push up housing costs in the surrounding area as well. Still, the absence of school fees helps to balance this out.

Expats who would prefer to send their child to a private or international school will have to bear high fees as well as additional expenses in the form of uniforms, stationery, textbooks and more.