Introduction
The cost of living varies significantly across the United States, with some states having much higher costs than others. The cost of living is a measure of how much it costs to maintain a standard of living in a particular area, taking into account the prices of goods and services like food, housing, transportation, and healthcare.
States on the Northeast and West Coast have higher costs of living compared to those in the South and Midwest. Generally, states with higher costs of living have higher wages and salaries to compensate for the increased expenses.
Hawaii has the highest cost of living index of 184, which is significantly higher than any other state in the US. The state with the lowest cost of living index is Mississippi, with a score of 85. Other states with relatively high costs of living include California, New York, and Massachusetts. On the other hand, states with lower costs of living include Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Kansas.
Cost of Living Index by State
| # | State | Cost of Living Index | Minimum Hourly Wage | Livable Wage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hawaii | 184 | $10.1 | $21.99 |
| 2 | District of Columbia | 152.2 | $10.5 | $23.13 |
| 3 | Massachusetts | 149.7 | $14.25 | $21.88 |
| 4 | California | 137.6 | $14 | $21.82 |
| 5 | New York | 134.5 | $13.2 | $21.99 |
| 6 | Alaska | 126.6 | $10.34 | $16.72 |
| 7 | Maryland | 124 | $12.5 | $19.74 |
| 8 | Oregon | 121.2 | $13.5 | $19.51 |
| 9 | Connecticut | 116.8 | $14 | $19 |
| 10 | New Hampshire | 116.1 | $7.25 | $17.32 |
| 11 | Vermont | 115.9 | $12.55 | $17.81 |
| 12 | Maine | 115.3 | $12.75 | $17.88 |
| 13 | Washington | 114.2 | $14.49 | $18.54 |
| 14 | Rhode Island | 112.9 | $12.25 | $17.8 |
| 15 | New Jersey | 112.4 | $13 | $20.57 |
| 16 | Arizona | 105.8 | $12.8 | $17.43 |
| 17 | Delaware | 105.6 | $15.2 | $17.74 |
| 18 | Montana | 104.8 | $9.2 | $16.32 |
| 19 | Colorado | 104.6 | $12.56 | $19.16 |
| 20 | Nevada | 103.2 | $10.5 | $16.24 |
| 21 | Florida | 102.8 | $10 | $17.24 |
| 22 | Utah | 102.8 | $7.25 | $16.98 |
| 23 | Virginia | 102.8 | $11 | $19.4 |
| 24 | Idaho | 99.6 | $7.25 | $16.16 |
| 25 | Pennsylvania | 98.2 | $7.25 | $16.67 |
| 26 | Minnesota | 97.5 | $10.33 | $17.74 |
| 27 | North Dakota | 97.1 | $7.25 | $15.37 |
| 28 | North Carolina | 95.7 | $7.25 | $17.14 |
| 29 | Wisconsin | 95.5 | $7.25 | $16.4 |
| 30 | Kentucky | 94.9 | $7.25 | $15.46 |
| 31 | South Dakota | 94.5 | $9.95 | $14.85 |
| 32 | South Carolina | 94.3 | $7.25 | $17.47 |
| 33 | New Mexico | 94 | $11.5 | $16.25 |
| 34 | Louisiana | 93.6 | $7.25 | $16.15 |
| 35 | Illinois | 92.6 | $12 | $18.16 |
| 36 | Texas | 92.5 | $7.25 | $16.41 |
| 37 | Wyoming | 92.5 | $7.25 | $15.25 |
| 38 | Michigan | 92.2 | $9.87 | $16.36 |
| 39 | Nebraska | 91.9 | $9 | $16.6 |
| 40 | Ohio | 91.9 | $9.3 | $15.61 |
| 41 | Arkansas | 90.6 | $11 | $15.55 |
| 42 | Tennessee | 90.2 | $7.25 | $15.45 |
| 43 | West Virginia | 90 | $8.75 | $15.45 |
| 44 | Indiana | 89.9 | $7.25 | $15.79 |
| 45 | Iowa | 89.2 | $7.25 | $16.18 |
| 46 | Missouri | 89.1 | $11.15 | $16.29 |
| 47 | Georgia | 88.6 | $7.25 | $17.64 |
| 48 | Alabama | 88.1 | $7.25 | $15.91 |
| 49 | Kansas | 87.5 | $7.25 | $16.38 |
| 50 | Oklahoma | 85.8 | $7.25 | $15.75 |
| 51 | Mississippi | 85 | $7.25 | $15.66 |
Cost of Living Index
The cost of living index is a measure of the average cost of living in a particular area compared to the national average, which is given a score of 100. The index takes into account the prices of goods and services in a specific location, including housing, transportation, food, healthcare, and other essentials. A score above 100 means that the cost of living in a particular area is higher than the national average, while a score below 100 means that the cost of living is lower than the national average.
One limitation of the cost of living index is that it may not accurately reflect the cost of living for everyone in a particular location. This is because different people have different lifestyles and consumption habits. For example, a family with children may have higher expenses related to education and childcare than a single person. Similarly, someone who prefers to eat out at restaurants frequently may have higher food expenses than someone who cooks at home. Despite this limitation, the cost of living index remains a valuable tool for assessing the general cost of living in different locations and making informed financial decisions.
States With Highest Cost of Living
The ten states with the highest cost of living are Hawaii, Massachusetts, California, New York, Alaska, Maryland, Oregon, Connecticut, New Hampshire, and Vermont.
Hawaii is the state with the highest cost of living in the US, with a cost of living index of 184. This is due to its isolated location and the high demand for housing, food, and energy. Massachusetts comes in second, with a cost of living index of 149.7, largely driven by its expensive housing market and high taxes. California is the third state with the highest cost of living, with a cost of living index of 137.6. New York follows closely behind with a cost of living index of 134.5, mainly due to its high cost of housing and transportation.
Alaska is the fifth state with the highest cost of living and has a cost of living index of 126.6 due to its remote location and the high cost of basic necessities such as food, energy, and healthcare. The sixth state with the highest cost of living is Maryland with a cost of living index of 124, driven by high housing and transportation costs. Oregon has a cost of living index of 121.2, mainly due to high housing costs in urban areas. Connecticut is the eighth state with the highest cost of living with a cost of living index of 116.8. New Hampshire ranks ninth and has a cost of living index of 116.1. Finally, the tenth state with the highest cost of living in the US is Vermont with a cost of living index of 115.9.
The ten states with the highest cost of living index are:
1. Hawaii – 184
2. Massachusetts – 149.7
3. California – 137.6
4. New York – 134.5
5. Alaska – 126.6
6. Maryland – 124
7. Oregon – 121.2
8. Connecticut – 116.8
9. New Hampshire – 116.1
10. Vermont – 115.9
Highest Cost of Living in the US
Hawaii is the state with the highest cost of living in the US, with a cost of living index of 184. The state’s high cost of living is mainly due to the high cost of housing, which is among the highest in the nation. The state’s isolated location also results in high transportation costs, which drives up the cost of goods and services. Finally, Hawaii has one of the highest tax rates in the US, further contributing to the high cost of living.
States With Lowest Cost of Living
The ten states with the lowest cost of living are Mississippi, Oklahoma, Kansas, Alabama, Georgia, Missouri, Iowa, Indiana, West Virginia, and Tennessee.
Mississippi is the state with the lowest cost of living in the US, with a cost of living index of 85. This means that the cost of living in Mississippi is 15% lower than the national average. The state has a low cost of housing, groceries, and utilities. Oklahoma is the second state with the lowest cost of living in the US, with a cost of living index of 85.8. The state’s low cost of living is attributed to the low cost of housing, transportation, and healthcare. Kansas, with a cost of living index of 87.5, ranks third on the list. Alabama comes in fourth, with a cost of living index of 88.1, thanks to its low cost of housing and healthcare.
Georgia is the fifth state with the lowest cost of living, with a cost of living index of 88.6, due to low costs of housing and transportation. Missouri has a cost of living index of 89.1 with a low cost of housing being the biggest factor. Iowa ranks seventh with a cost of living index of 89.2, where the cost of groceries and housing is below the national average. Indiana is the eighth state with the lowest cost of living, with a cost of living index of 89.9. West Virginia ranks ninth, with a cost of living index of 90, with low costs of housing and groceries. Finally, the tenth state with the lowest cost of living in the US is Tennessee with a cost of living index of 90.2, due to the low cost of housing and healthcare.
The ten states with the lowest cost of living index are:
1. Mississippi – 85
2. Oklahoma – 85.8
3. Kansas – 87.5
4. Alabama – 88.1
5. Georgia – 88.6
6. Missouri – 89.1
7. Iowa – 89.2
8. Indiana – 89.9
9. West Virginia – 90
10. Tennessee – 90.2
Lowest Cost of Living in the US
Mississippi is known to have the lowest cost of living in the United States, with a cost of living index of 85 according to the data provided. This means that the cost of living in Mississippi is 15% lower than the national average. This is due to the state’s relatively low housing costs, transportation costs, and healthcare costs compared to other states in the country. Additionally, the state has a lower tax burden, which further contributes to the low cost of living.
Cost of Living by State
Alabama
Ranked in the US
#48
Minimum Hourly Wage
$7.25
Ranked in the US
#32
$15.91
Ranked in the US
#40
Alaska
126.6
Ranked in the US
#6
Minimum Hourly Wage
$10.34
Ranked in the US
#22
$16.72
Ranked in the US
#26
Arizona
105.8
Ranked in the US
#16
Minimum Hourly Wage
$12.8
Ranked in the US
#9
$17.43
Ranked in the US
#21
The cost of living in Arizona is higher than the national average, ranking fifteenth with a cost of living index of 105.8. The average living wage in Arizona is $17.43, the minimum wage is $12.80, and the median household income is $70,821. The high cost of living in Arizona is mainly due to its growing population and high demand for housing.
Arkansas
Ranked in the US
#41
Minimum Hourly Wage
$11
Ranked in the US
#18
$15.55
Ranked in the US
#45
The cost of living in Arkansas is lower than the national average, ranking fortieth with a cost of living index of 90.6, which is lower than the national average. The average living wage in Arkansas is $15.55, while the minimum wage is $11, and the median household income is $50,784. Arkansas has a low cost of living due to its affordable housing, low taxes, and lower costs for basic necessities like food, healthcare, and utilities.
California
137.6
Ranked in the US
#4
Minimum Hourly Wage
$14
Ranked in the US
#4
$21.82
Ranked in the US
#5
The cost of living in California is higher than the national average, ranking third with a cost of living index of 137.6. The average living wage in California is $21.82, the minimum wage is $14, and the median household income is $81,575. The high cost of living in California is primarily due to its large population, high demand for housing, and high taxes.
Colorado
104.6
Ranked in the US
#19
Minimum Hourly Wage
$12.56
Ranked in the US
#11
$19.16
Ranked in the US
#10
The cost of living in Colorado is higher than the national average, ranking eighteenth with a cost of living index of 104.6. The average living wage in Colorado is $19.16, the minimum wage is $12.56, and the median household income is $84,954. Colorado's high cost of living can be attributed to a strong economy, a growing population, and a high demand for housing.
Connecticut
116.8
Ranked in the US
#9
Minimum Hourly Wage
$14
Ranked in the US
#5
$19
Ranked in the US
#11
Delaware
105.6
Ranked in the US
#17
Minimum Hourly Wage
$15.2
Ranked in the US
#1
$17.74
Ranked in the US
#17
District of Columbia
152.2
Ranked in the US
#2
Minimum Hourly Wage
$10.5
Ranked in the US
#20
$23.13
Ranked in the US
#1
Florida
102.8
Ranked in the US
#21
Minimum Hourly Wage
$10
Ranked in the US
#25
$17.24
Ranked in the US
#23
The cost of living in Florida is higher than the national average, ranking twentieth with a cost of living index of 102.8. The average living wage in Florida is $17.24, the minimum wage is $10, and the median household income is $59,734. Florida's high cost of living can be attributed to its strong tourism industry, high demand for housing, and high property taxes.
Georgia
Ranked in the US
#47
Minimum Hourly Wage
$7.25
Ranked in the US
#33
$17.64
Ranked in the US
#19
The cost of living in Georgia is lower than the national average, ranking forty-sixth with a cost of living index of 88.6. The average living wage in Georgia is $17.64, while the minimum wage is $7.25. The median household income in Georgia is $61,497. Georgia's low cost of living is due to its relatively affordable housing market and low costs of goods and services. Additionally, the state's tax burden is relatively low, with property taxes being lower than the national average.
Hawaii
Ranked in the US
#1
Minimum Hourly Wage
$10.1
Ranked in the US
#24
$21.99
Ranked in the US
#2
The cost of living in Hawaii is higher than the national average, ranking first with a cost of living index of 184. The average living wage in Hawaii is $21.99, the minimum wage is $10.10, and the median household income is $82,199. Hawaii's high cost of living is mainly due to the state's isolated location, which makes it more expensive to import goods and resources.
Idaho
Ranked in the US
#24
Minimum Hourly Wage
$7.25
Ranked in the US
#34
$16.16
Ranked in the US
#38
Illinois
Ranked in the US
#35
Minimum Hourly Wage
$12
Ranked in the US
#15
$18.16
Ranked in the US
#13
The cost of living in Illinois is lower than the national average, ranking thirty-fourth with a cost of living index of 92.6. The average living wage in Illinois is $18.16, and the minimum wage is $12, while the median household income is $79,253. Illinois has a lower cost of living because of its lower housing costs and overall lower expenses. However, the state has higher taxes compared to other states, which can affect the overall cost of living.
Indiana
Ranked in the US
#44
Minimum Hourly Wage
$7.25
Ranked in the US
#35
$15.79
Ranked in the US
#41
Iowa
Ranked in the US
#45
Minimum Hourly Wage
$7.25
Ranked in the US
#36
$16.18
Ranked in the US
#37
The cost of living in Iowa has a cost of living lower than the national average, ranking forty-fourth with a cost of living index of 89.2. The average living wage in Iowa is $16.18, while the minimum wage is $7.25, and the median household income is $72,429. Iowa's low cost of living can be attributed to affordable housing, low taxes, and lower costs for basic necessities like healthcare and food.
Kansas
Ranked in the US
#49
Minimum Hourly Wage
$7.25
Ranked in the US
#37
$16.38
Ranked in the US
#31
The cost of living in Kansas is lower than the national average, ranking forty-eighth with a cost of living index of 87.5. The average living wage in Kansas is $16.38, while the minimum wage is $7.25. The median household income in Kansas is $75,979. The state has a low cost of living due to its affordable housing market, lower than average costs of goods and services, and relatively low tax burden.
Kentucky
Ranked in the US
#30
Minimum Hourly Wage
$7.25
Ranked in the US
#38
$15.46
Ranked in the US
#46
Louisiana
Ranked in the US
#34
Minimum Hourly Wage
$7.25
Ranked in the US
#39
$16.15
Ranked in the US
#39
Maine
115.3
Ranked in the US
#12
Minimum Hourly Wage
$12.75
Ranked in the US
#10
$17.88
Ranked in the US
#14
The cost of living in Maine is higher than the national average, ranking eleventh with a cost of living index of 115.3. The average living wage in Maine is $17.88, the minimum wage is $12.75, and the median household income is $71,139. Maine's high cost of living is mainly due to its remote location, limited job opportunities, and high energy costs.
Maryland
Ranked in the US
#7
Minimum Hourly Wage
$12.5
Ranked in the US
#13
$19.74
Ranked in the US
#7
The cost of living in Maryland is higher than the national average, ranking sixth with a cost of living index of 124. The average living wage in Maryland is $19.74, the minimum wage is $12.50, and the median household income is $97,332. Maryland's high cost of living is mainly due to its proximity to Washington D.C. and the high demand for housing in the region.
Massachusetts
149.7
Ranked in the US
#3
Minimum Hourly Wage
$14.25
Ranked in the US
#3
$21.88
Ranked in the US
#4
Michigan
Ranked in the US
#38
Minimum Hourly Wage
$9.87
Ranked in the US
#27
$16.36
Ranked in the US
#32
The cost of living in Michigan is lower than the national average, ranking thirty-seventh with a cost of living index of 92.2, which is lower than the national average. The average living wage in Michigan is $16.36, while the minimum wage is $9.87, and the median household income is $64,488. Michigan's lower cost of living can be attributed to its relatively low housing costs, lower taxes, and lower costs for basic necessities like food and healthcare.
Minnesota
Ranked in the US
#26
Minimum Hourly Wage
$10.33
Ranked in the US
#23
$17.74
Ranked in the US
#18
The cost of living in Minnesota is lower than the national average, ranking twenty-fifth with a cost of living index of 97.5. The average living wage in Minnesota is $17.74, the minimum wage is $10.33, and the median household income is $80,441. Minnesota's high cost of living can be attributed to its strong economy, high taxes, and high cost of healthcare.
Mississippi
Ranked in the US
#51
Minimum Hourly Wage
$7.25
Ranked in the US
#40
$15.66
Ranked in the US
#43
Missouri
Ranked in the US
#46
Minimum Hourly Wage
$11.15
Ranked in the US
#17
$16.29
Ranked in the US
#34
The cost of living in Missouri is lower than the national average, ranking forty-fifth with a cost of living index of 89.1. The average living wage in Missouri is $16.29, while the minimum wage is $11.15. The median household income in Missouri is $63,594. The state has a low cost of living due to its affordable housing market, low utility costs, and overall lower-than-average cost of goods and services. Additionally, Missouri has a relatively low tax burden, with property taxes being lower than the national average and no sales tax on groceries.
Montana
104.8
Ranked in the US
#18
Minimum Hourly Wage
$9.2
Ranked in the US
#29
$16.32
Ranked in the US
#33
Nebraska
Ranked in the US
#39
Minimum Hourly Wage
$9
Ranked in the US
#30
$16.6
Ranked in the US
#28
The cost of living in Nebraska is lower than the national average, ranking thirty-eighth with a cost of living index of 91.9. The average living wage in Nebraska is $16.60, while the minimum wage is $9, and the median household income is $78,109. Nebraska's low cost of living is due to its affordable housing, and lower costs for utilities and groceries. Additionally, Nebraska has a low tax burden, which helps to keep costs down for its residents.
Nevada
103.2
Ranked in the US
#20
Minimum Hourly Wage
$10.5
Ranked in the US
#21
$16.24
Ranked in the US
#36
New Hampshire
116.1
Ranked in the US
#10
Minimum Hourly Wage
$7.25
Ranked in the US
#41
$17.32
Ranked in the US
#22
The cost of living in New Hampshire is higher than the national average, ranking ninth with a cost of living index of 116.1. The average living wage in New Hampshire is $17.32, the minimum wage is $7.25, and the median household income is $88,841. New Hampshire's high cost of living is mainly due to its high property taxes and limited housing supply.
New Jersey
112.4
Ranked in the US
#15
Minimum Hourly Wage
$13
Ranked in the US
#8
$20.57
Ranked in the US
#6
The cost of living in New Jersey is higher than the national average, ranking fourteenth with a cost of living index of 112.4. The average living wage in New Jersey is $20.57, the minimum wage is $13, and the median household income is $88,559. The high cost of living in New Jersey is mainly due to its proximity to New York City, high demand for housing, and high taxes.
New Mexico
Ranked in the US
#33
Minimum Hourly Wage
$11.5
Ranked in the US
#16
$16.25
Ranked in the US
#35
New York
134.5
Ranked in the US
#5
Minimum Hourly Wage
$13.2
Ranked in the US
#7
$21.99
Ranked in the US
#3
New York has the fifth highest cost of living index in the country with a cost of living index of 134.5. The high cost of living in New York is driven by factors such as housing costs, which are some of the highest in the nation, as well as transportation and food costs which are significantly higher than in other states. Taxes are another major factor when it comes to New York's cost of living index; these taxes include state income tax, sales tax, and property tax. Moreover, wages for many professions, including healthcare and finance professionals, tend to be higher in New York City than elsewhere in the country. This contributes to increasing costs all around for both businesses and individuals who live there.
North Carolina
Ranked in the US
#28
Minimum Hourly Wage
$7.25
Ranked in the US
#42
$17.14
Ranked in the US
#24
The cost of living in North Carolina is lower than the national average, ranking twenty-seventh with a cost of living index of 95.7. The average living wage in North Carolina is $17.14, and the minimum wage is $7.25, while the median household income is $62,891. North Carolina has a low cost of living because of its lower housing costs and overall lower expenses.
North Dakota
Ranked in the US
#27
Minimum Hourly Wage
$7.25
Ranked in the US
#43
$15.37
Ranked in the US
#49
The cost of living in North Dakota is lower than the national average, ranking twenty-sixth with a cost of living index of 97.1. The average living wage in North Dakota is $15.37, and the minimum wage is $7.25, while the median household income is $68,882. North Dakota has a low cost of living because of its low population density and abundance of natural resources, including oil, gas, and agriculture.
Ohio
Ranked in the US
#40
Minimum Hourly Wage
$9.3
Ranked in the US
#28
$15.61
Ranked in the US
#44
The cost of living in Ohio is lower than the national average, ranking thirty-ninth with a cost of living index of 91.9. The average living wage in Ohio is $15.61, while the minimum wage is $9.30, and the median household income is $62,689. Ohio's low cost of living is due to affordable housing, low taxes, and lower costs for basic necessities like healthcare, food, and transportation.
Oklahoma
Ranked in the US
#50
Minimum Hourly Wage
$7.25
Ranked in the US
#44
$15.75
Ranked in the US
#42
The cost of living in Oklahoma is lower than the national average, ranking forty-ninth with a cost of living index of 85.8. The average living wage in Oklahoma is $15.75, while the minimum wage is $7.25. The median household income in Oklahoma is $60,096. Oklahoma has a low cost of living due to its affordable housing market, low energy costs, and lower-than-average costs of goods and services. Additionally, Oklahoma has a relatively low tax burden, with no state income tax on Social Security benefits and a relatively low property tax rate.
Oregon
121.2
Ranked in the US
#8
Minimum Hourly Wage
$13.5
Ranked in the US
#6
$19.51
Ranked in the US
#8
The cost of living in Oregon is higher than the national average, ranking seventh with a cost of living index of 121.2. The average living wage in Oregon is $19.51, the minimum wage is $13.50, and the median household income is $81,855. The high cost of living in Oregon is mainly due to its growing population, limited housing supply, and high taxes.
Pennsylvania
Ranked in the US
#25
Minimum Hourly Wage
$7.25
Ranked in the US
#45
$16.67
Ranked in the US
#27
The cost of living in Pennsylvania is lower than the national average, ranking twenty-fourth with a cost of living index of 98.2. The average living wage in Pennsylvania is $16.67, the minimum wage is $7.25, and the median household income is $72,627. Pennsylvania's relatively high cost of living can be attributed to its strong economy, high cost of housing, and high taxes.
Rhode Island
112.9
Ranked in the US
#14
Minimum Hourly Wage
$12.25
Ranked in the US
#14
$17.8
Ranked in the US
#16
South Carolina
Ranked in the US
#32
Minimum Hourly Wage
$7.25
Ranked in the US
#46
$17.47
Ranked in the US
#20
The cost of living in South Carolina is lower than the national average, ranking thirty-first with a cost of living index of 94.3. The average living wage in South Carolina is $17.47, and the minimum wage is $7.25, while the median household income is $62,542. South Carolina has a lower cost of living because of its lower housing costs and overall lower expenses. The state's economy, including industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism, also contributes to its affordability.
South Dakota
Ranked in the US
#31
Minimum Hourly Wage
$9.95
Ranked in the US
#26
$14.85
Ranked in the US
#51
The cost of living in South Dakota is lower than the national average, ranking thirtieth with a cost of living index of 94.5. The average living wage in South Dakota is $14.85, and the minimum wage is $9.95, while the median household income is $73,893. South Dakota has a lower cost of living because of its lower housing costs, transportation expenses, and overall lower expenses. The state's economy, including industries such as healthcare, finance, and tourism, also contributes to its affordability.
Tennessee
Ranked in the US
#42
Minimum Hourly Wage
$7.25
Ranked in the US
#47
$15.45
Ranked in the US
#47
The cost of living in Tennessee is lower than the national average, ranking forty-first with a cost of living index of 90.2. The average living wage in Tennessee is $15.45, while the minimum wage is $7.25, and the median household income is $62,166. Tennessee's low cost of living is due to its affordable housing, low tax burden, and lower costs for basic necessities like healthcare, food, and transportation.
Texas
Ranked in the US
#36
Minimum Hourly Wage
$7.25
Ranked in the US
#48
$16.41
Ranked in the US
#29
The cost of living in Texas is lower than the national average, ranking thirty-fifth with a cost of living index of 92.5. The average living wage in Texas is $16.41, while the minimum wage is $7.25, and the median household income is $67,404. Texas has a low cost of living due to a combination of factors such as affordable housing, no state income tax, and low transportation costs. The state also has a relatively low cost of living for healthcare, utilities, and groceries compared to other states in the US.
Utah
102.8
Ranked in the US
#22
Minimum Hourly Wage
$7.25
Ranked in the US
#49
$16.98
Ranked in the US
#25
The cost of living in Utah is higher than the national average, ranking twenty-first with a cost of living index of 102.8. The average living wage in Utah is $16.98, the minimum wage is $7.25, and the median household income is $87,649. Utah's high cost of living can be attributed to its strong economy, low unemployment rate, and growing population.
Vermont
115.9
Ranked in the US
#11
Minimum Hourly Wage
$12.55
Ranked in the US
#12
$17.81
Ranked in the US
#15
Virginia
102.8
Ranked in the US
#23
Minimum Hourly Wage
$11
Ranked in the US
#19
$19.4
Ranked in the US
#9
The cost of living in Virginia is higher than the national average, ranking twenty-second with a cost of living index of 102.8. The average living wage in Virginia is $19.40, the minimum wage is $11, and the median household income is $80,268. Virginia's high cost of living can be attributed to its strong economy, high cost of housing, and high taxes.
Washington
114.2
Ranked in the US
#13
Minimum Hourly Wage
$14.49
Ranked in the US
#2
$18.54
Ranked in the US
#12
The cost of living in Washington State is higher than the national average, ranking twelfth with a cost of living index of 114.2. The average living wage in Washington State is $18.54, the minimum wage is $14.49, and the median household income is $87,648. The high cost of living in Washington State is mainly due to its growing population, limited housing supply, and high taxes.
West Virginia
Ranked in the US
#43
Minimum Hourly Wage
$8.75
Ranked in the US
#31
$15.45
Ranked in the US
#48
The cost of living in West Virginia is lower than the national average, ranking forty-second with a cost of living index of 90, which is lower than the national average. The average living wage in West Virginia is $15.45, while the minimum wage is $8.75, and the median household income is $46,836. West Virginia's low cost of living is due to affordable housing, low taxes, and lower costs for basic necessities like food, healthcare, and utilities.
Wisconsin
Ranked in the US
#29
Minimum Hourly Wage
$7.25
Ranked in the US
#50
$16.4
Ranked in the US
#30
The cost of living in Wisconsin is lower than the national average, ranking twenty-eighth with a cost of living index of 95.5. The average living wage in Wisconsin is $16.40, and the minimum wage is $7.25, while the median household income is $69,943. Wisconsin has a lower cost of living because of its lower housing costs, transportation expenses, and overall lower expenses. The state's diverse economy, including industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture, also contributes to its affordability.
Wyoming
Ranked in the US
#37
Minimum Hourly Wage
$7.25
Ranked in the US
#51
$15.25
Ranked in the US
#50
Wyoming has the thirty-seventh highest cost of living index in the country with a cost of living index of 92.5. Wyoming's cost of living index is slightly lower than the national average. The country offers many advantages such as access to public transportation, a wide range of entertainment options, and numerous outdoor activities for those looking for some fresh air. Additionally, the cost of housing in Wyoming is relatively lower than that of other states in the country. With its low taxes and relatively low cost of living index, Wyoming is an attractive place to live for those looking for an area with a more affordable cost of living.
FAQs
What is the cost of living ?
The cost of living is a measure of the amount of money needed to sustain a certain standard of living in a particular geographic location.
What state has the lowest cost of living ?
The state with the lowest cost of living in the US is Mississippi, with a cost of living index of 85.
What state has the highest cost of living ?
The state with the highest cost of living in the US is Hawaii, with a cost of living index of 184.
What states have the lowest cost of living ?
The 10 states with the lowest cost of living index are :
1. Hawaii – 184
2. Massachusetts – 149.7
3. California – 137.6
4. New York – 134.5
5. Alaska – 126.6
6. Maryland – 124
7. Oregon – 121.2
8. Connecticut – 116.8
9. New Hampshire – 116.1
10. Vermont – 115.9
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