(Last Updated – August 28, 2025)

There are plenty of reasons to consider putting down roots in Louisiana. The winters are mild, the food is famously delicious, and the culture is like nowhere else in the country. What’s more, the cost of living is below the national average, which means your income will go further here.

But as with any other state, there are drawbacks to consider. For instance, hurricanes and other natural disasters are driving up home insurance costs. And Louisiana’s hot, humid weather may not be everyone’s cup of tea.

Let’s take a look at how much living in Louisiana will cost using the most recent data from the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC), the Bureau of Economic Analysis, the U.S. Census, and other sources.

What’s the Average Cost of Living in Louisiana?

Average Cost of Living in Louisiana: $48,425 per year

Louisiana has the 17th-lowest cost of living in the U.S. as of the first quarter of 2025, according to MERIC data.

Every state receives a cost-of-living index (COLI) number, with the national average of 100 serving as the baseline. A COLI under 100 signifies a state is less expensive than the baseline, whereas a COLI over 100 indicates it’s more expensive.

Louisiana’s COLI number is 93.2. While that’s lower than the national average, it’s higher than neighboring states. Mississippi, Alabama, and Arkansas have COLI numbers of 87.3, 87.6, and 90.5, respectively. Texas, Louisiana’s neighbor to the west, has a COLI number of 91.8.

Here’s what Louisiana residents can expect to spend each year in the following categories, according to data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis.

Based on the figures above, the average monthly expenses for one person in Louisiana come out to around $4,035.

Housing Costs in Louisiana

Median Housing Costs in Louisiana: $833 to $1,543 per month

Is Louisiana one of the best affordable places in the U.S.? Its relatively low housing costs certainly help make the case for it to be.

The median value of owner-occupied homes in Louisiana was $212,038, according to August 2025 data from Zillow. That’s substantially lower than the national average home value of $368,581.

Below is the median monthly mortgage cost for a home and median rent by unit size.

•  Median monthly mortgage home loan cost: $1,543

•  Studio: $833

•  1 bedroom: $871

•  2 bedroom: $1,013

•  3 bedroom: $1,136

•  4 bedroom: $1,405

•  5 or more bedrooms: $1,543

•  Median gross rent: $1,020

Good news for first-time home buyers or those looking to make a move: As of July 1 2023, the state had roughly 2.1 million housing units, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This means that there may be plenty of housing stock available, depending on the area and the type of home you want.

Here’s a look at the average home value in selected Louisiana cities, according to the Zillow Home Values Index:

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Utility Costs in Louisiana

Average Utility Costs in Louisiana: $320 per month

A monthly mortgage or rent may take a big bite out of your budget, but recurring home utility costs can also have an impact. Here’s what those bills can run you each month in Louisiana.

Groceries & Food

Average Grocery & Food Costs in Louisiana: $336 per person per month

How much you spend on food each month will vary quite a bit, depending on where you live, how many people are in your family, and what type of food you typically purchase.

The Bureau of Economic Analysis data revealed that Louisiana’s per-capita expenses for food and beverages was $4,034 annually. This comes out to around $336 for an average person’s monthly food budget, or $1,344 per month for a typical family of four.

According to data from The Council for Community and Economic Research, grocery indices for several areas in Louisiana are below the national COLI baseline.

Transportation

Average Transportation Costs in Louisiana: $10,291 to $19,149 per year

New Orleans may be famous for its streetcars, but public transportation options vary by parish and are generally limited to buses and/or ferries. This helps explain why a car is the transportation of choice for a typical Louisianian. In fact, nearly 92% of residents own a car, according to data from the Federal Highway Administration and U.S. Census Bureau.

MIT’s Living Wage Calculator, last updated in February 2025, offers a snapshot of average expenses by household in each state. Notice how transportation costs increase with family size.

Health Care in Louisiana

Average cost of health care in Louisiana: $8,523 per person, per year

They may not put a regular dent in your budget, but health care costs can and do add up. In fact, they represent 8% of the average American’s budget, per Bureau of Labor Statistics data.

In Louisiana, residents pay an average of $9,576 a year for health care. This is slightly higher than the national average of $9,130, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.

But remember, these figures are just estimates. The amount you actually pay will depend on a number of factors, including your age, medical needs, and the type of health coverage you have.

Child Care in Louisiana

Average Child Care Costs in Louisiana: $615 to $993 per child, per month

As you might imagine, the average amount for childcare in Louisiana depends largely on your child’s age and the type of child care setting you’re seeking. As the data from CostofChildCare.org shows, child care expenses tend to decrease as children get older.

Taxes in Louisiana

Average Taxes in Louisiana: 3% flat tax

As of the 2025 tax year, Louisiana adopted a flat income tax rate of 3% for all individual taxpayers, regardless of income level or filing status. It also has a flat sales tax rate of 5% as of 2025, though cities and other local municipalities may charge additional sales or other taxes.

Here’s how Louisiana compares to neighboring states.

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Miscellaneous Costs

With its picturesque byways, vibrant live music scene, world-class cuisine, and a calendar chock full of events, Louisiana is always cooking up a good time. And fortunately, many of those attractions can be enjoyed for next to nothing.

•   Old State Capitol (Baton Rouge): Free

•   Poverty Point World Heritage Site (Epps): $4

•   Streetcar ride, one way (New Orleans): $1.25 per adult

•   Mardi Gras World (New Orleans): $29.95 adult ticket

How Much Money Do You Need to Live Comfortably in Louisiana?

Deciding how much money you need to live comfortably in Louisiana will depend on a variety of factors, including where you decide to live, the size of your household, and your lifestyle.

Still, you may find that your income goes farther in Louisiana compared to other states. The cost of living in Louisiana ranks 17th for the lowest annual average cost of living index according to MERIC. And U.S. News & World Report ranked the Bayou State sixth for affordability and eighth for housing affordability.

What City Has the Lowest Cost of Living in Louisiana?

As we’ve discussed, Louisiana overall has a low cost of living compared to the national average. But there are areas where your dollar can go even further. Here are three of the lowest-cost cities in the state, per the Council for Community and Economic Research’s 2024 Cost of Living Index.

Hammond

Hammond may be home to Southeastern Louisiana University, but it’s so much more than a typical college town. A revitalized downtown district booming with shops and diverse restaurants, cute cafes sprinkled throughout the city, and the two-acre Cate Square Park all offer plenty of places to pass the time. And when big-city needs call, New Orleans is a short 45-minute drive away.

Lafayette

Lively music and festivals? A rich Cajun and Creole culture? A best-in-class culinary scene? Lafayette checks all these boxes and more. No wonder it’s nicknamed “The Happiest City in America.” Another reason to smile? The city is a hub for the oil and gas industry and is attracting jobs in the technology sector.

Monroe

Tucked in the northeastern part of the state, Monroe may be best known as the home of the Robertson family of “Duck Dynasty.” But this bustling city is hardly a secret. Locals and visitors alike flock to Monroe for its easy access to Ouchaita riverfront and bayous as well as the University of Louisiana at Monroe. Its affordable housing is attractive as well: The average house price is around $149,806, according to Zillow.

Helpful Resources for Future Louisiana Residents

(Last Updated – August 28, 2025)

Commonly known for its pop culture reference in The Wizard of Oz, Kansas offers plenty of potential for individuals who are looking for Midwestern charm and a low cost of living. Prospective transplants might appreciate metropolitan areas like Wichita and Overland Park, which are home to burgeoning job markets in lucrative industries like aviation, health care and tech.

However, tornado season from March through June can be a deterrent for some individuals. Additionally, the state’s politically conservative stance might not be a fit for those who desire a more progressive atmosphere.

If you’re thinking about relocating to the Sunflower State, here’s what to know about the cost of living in Kansas.

What’s the Average Cost of Living in Kansas?

Average Cost of Living in Kansas: $49,348 per year

Based on data from the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC), Kansas had the seventh-lowest cost of living in the U.S. as of the first quarter of 2025. Each state is ranked using a cost-of-living index (COLI) number, with the national index score of 100 acting as a baseline. A COLI number below 100 is less expensive compared to the baseline, while a COLI above 100 indicates it’s more expensive than baseline.

Kansas’ COLI number is 89.7. For context, its neighboring states — Nebraska, Missouri and Oklahoma — have a COLI number at 92.4, 88.0, and 85.5, respectively. Its neighbor to the west, Colorado, has a COLI number of 104.0.

Here’s what you can expect for average annual expenses for certain spending categories.

Source: The Bureau of Economic Analysis, Personal Consumption Expenditures by State, 2023

Based on these figures, Kansas residents can expect average monthly expenses of $4,112 per person.

Housing Costs in Kansas

Average Housing Costs in Kansas: $1,731 (rent) to $2,396 (mortgage)

Relatively low housing costs help make Kansas one of the best affordable places in the U.S.

There are 1,310,506 housing units in Kansas, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. August 2025 data from Zillow revealed that home values in the state average $242,980, lower than the national average home value of $368,581.

Below is the median monthly mortgage cost for a home and median rent by unit size.

•  Median monthly mortgage home loan cost: $1,638

•  Studio: $809

•  1 bedroom: $855

•  2 bedroom: $1,030

•  3 bedroom: $1,206

•  4 bedroom: $1,343

•  5 or more bedrooms: $1,385

•  Median gross rent: $1,036

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2023 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates

Kansas residents will also see notable differences in housing costs based on where they live. Below are a few major Kansas cities and the corresponding home values in each area, according to Zillow.

Source: Zillow, August 2025

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Utility Costs in Kansas

Average Utility Costs in Kansas: $365 per month

Recurring home utilities costs are a factor in the average cost of living in Kansas. Here’s what monthly utilities can run you while living in the state.

Groceries & Food

Average Food & Beverage Costs in Kansas: $377 per month

The Bureau of Economic Analysis found that Kansas’ per-capita expenses for food and beverages was $4,526, annually. The monthly breakdown comes to $377 for an average individual’s monthly food and beverage budget — or $1,508 per month for an average family of four.

Below are the grocery indices for a handful of Kansas areas, according to data from The Council for Community and Economic Research. All Kansas areas fall below the national COLI baseline for groceries.

Source: The Council for Community and Economic Research – Cost of Living Index, 2024 average

Transportation

Average Transportation Costs in Kansas: $0,464 to $19,472 per year

Kansas offers various transportation services from RideKC, which runs through the Kansas City metro area to various bus transit services across the state. Transportation costs will vary by family size and transportation preferences.

MIT’s Living Wage Calculator, which was last updated on February 10, 2025, revealed that average annual transportation costs for a single adult with no children was $10,464. For two working adults without children, this increases to $12,110 annually, while a family of four spends an average of $19,472 annually on transportation.

Source: MIT’s Living Wage Calculator, February 2025

Health Care in Kansas

Average cost of health care in Kansas: $8,523 per person, per year

Data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis found that the per-capita cost for health care in Kansas is $8,523 per resident, annually. This estimate, however, is just that — an estimate. Actual costs vary by person, based on a range of factors, including your age, health care plan, and medical and treatment needs.

Child Care in Kansas

Average Child Care Costs in Kansas: $771 to $1,295 per child, per month

Child care is a substantial monthly expense for families and can dramatically impact affordability in a state. According to CostofChildCare.org, infant child care in Kansas costs at most $1,295 per month, per child. As children age, child care expenses are slightly lower at $995 for toddler care and $771 for a preschool-aged child. Home-based family child care averages $1,163 per month, per child.

Source: CostofChildCare.org

Taxes in Kansas

Maximum income tax rate: 5.58%

Kansas has a graduated-rate income tax structure. According to the Tax Foundation, the maximum statutory income tax rate in Kansas is 5.58%, higher than any state it borders.

Here’s how Kansas stacks up against nearby states.

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Miscellaneous Costs

After covering the cost of essential living expenses, Kansas rewards residents with a variety of low-cost attractions to pass the time. And many of those are family-friendly.

•  Botanica, The Wichita Gardens: $12 adult, general admission ticket.

•  Sedgwick County Zoo: Up to $23.99 adult ticket.

•  OZ Museum: $10 standard adult admission.

How Much Money Do You Need to Live Comfortably in Kansas?

Though Kansas has a fairly low cost of living, the income you need to comfortably live there is subjective. It depends on your family size, the city you choose to settle into, and your spending habits.

Based on MERIC’s cost of living data, the cost of living in Kansas ranks seventh for the lowest annual average cost of living index. U.S. News & Report revealed a similar assessment in its affordability ranking by state. It ranked Kansas eleventh in affordability with housing affordability ranking 10th most affordable state in the nation, which may be of particular interest to you if you’re buying your first home.

What City Has the Lowest Cost of Living in Kansas?

The following Kansas cities have some of the lowest cost of living, according to the Council for Community and Economic Research’s 2024 Average Cost of Living Index:

Pittsburg

Located in southeast Kansas near the Missouri border is the city of Pittsburg. It has a COLI of 82.1 and is home to Pittsburg State University. With a population of approximately 20,646, the city offers a vibrant community-oriented atmosphere.

Salina

Approximately 46,109 Kansans call Salina home. The micropolitan, which is located in north-central Kansas, has a cost of living index of 83.3. It’s primarily regarded for its trading and agricultural activity, namely wheat production and grain milling.

Topeka

Topeka, dubbed the “Golden City,” has a COLI of 86.3. It sits along the Kansas River and has a population of 125,467 residents. Aside from being the state capital, it’s known for its ties to the Civil Rights Movement, where Brown v. Board of Education began.

Helpful Resources for Future Kansas Residents

(Last Updated – September 3,2025)

If you’re looking for your own field of dreams in the heartland, Iowa is one of the most affordable places to live in the U.S. The average cost of living in Iowa is $47,833.

While you might love how affordable it is, the Hawkeye State might also win your heart with its easy way of life, low crime rate, vibrant culture, and good schools. Here’s a complete breakdown of how much living in Iowa will cost using the most recent data from Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC), the Bureau of Economic Analysis, and the U.S. Census.

What’s the Average Cost of Living in Iowa?

Average Cost of Living in Iowa: $47,833 per year

Good news for Iowans: The state has the second lowest cost of living among Midwestern states, beating out neighboring states like Minnesota, Illinois, and Nebraska. It’s also the sixth lowest cost of living in the U.S., according to MERIC data collected in 2024.

As we mentioned, the average cost of living is $47,833 per person, according to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis Cost of Living Index. That translates to average monthly expenses of $3,986 per person.

Here’s what that looks like when broken down by spending category.

Housing Costs in Iowa

Median Housing Costs in Iowa: $741 to $1,494 per month

Relatively low housing costs make Iowa one of the best affordable places in the U.S. Iowa has 1,449,340 housing units and a 71.5% ownership rate, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau. And as of August 2025, the average home price in Iowa is $233,008, per data compiled by Zillow.

Annual housing costs in Iowa average $7,743. When broken down by housing type and size, the numbers look like this:

•   Median monthly mortgage home loan cost: $1,494

•   Median studio rent: $851

•   Median one-bedroom rent: $741

•   Median two-bedroom rent: $959

•   Median three-bedroom rent: $1,166

•   Median four-bedroom rent: $1,274

•   Median five-bedroom rent: $1,153

•   Median gross rent: $949

These are the average home prices in some of the most popular cities in Iowa, according to Zillow’s August 2025 data.

Recommended: Finding Down Payment Assistance Programs

Utility Costs in Iowa

Average Utility Costs in Iowa: $331.60 per month

Monthly utility costs in Iowa are generally lower than most other states and can be broken down as follows:

Food & Beverage

Average Food & Beverage Costs in Iowa: $339 per month

Food costs in Iowa can take a bite out of your budget. Unfortunately, they’re slightly higher here than in neighboring Minnesota, Nebraska, and South Dakota. According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, Iowa’s per-capita annual cost of food and beverages is around $4,067. This breaks down to roughly $339 per month for an individual, or $1,355 per month for a family of four. Keep in mind that figure is just a state average. Costs will vary depending on where you are within Iowa.

The Council for Community and Economic Research tracks grocery costs across the country. Let’s take a look at the comparative grocery costs in Iowa for 2024, from lowest to highest. Note that the number 100 represents the national average.

Transportation

Average Transportation Costs in Iowa: $10,760 to $20,022 per year

Whether you’re planning a weekend trip to Pikes Peak State Park or hitting the Great River Road National Scenic Byway, there’s no shortage of scenic drives in the Hawkeye State. Fortunately, fuel costs are generally in line with what you’d pay in nearby states, though the amount you pay will vary according to the type of car you drive and the size of your family.

Here are estimated monthly costs per MIT’s Living Wage Calculator.

Looking to slash your transportation costs? Iowa has a statewide public transit system, which includes service to rural areas of the state.

Health Care in Iowa

Average Health Care Costs in Iowa: $8,224 per person, per year

The average Iowan pays around $8,224 in health care costs each year, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Personal Consumption Expenditures report. This is lower than the national average of $9,130. However, the amount you’ll pay will depend on a number of factors, including your age, medical needs, and the type of health insurance plan you have.

Child Care

Average Child Care Costs in Iowa: $951 to $1,373 per child, per month

As with most states, the amount you pay for child care in Iowa will depend largely on the type of care and your child’s age. For instance, you’ll likely pay more for center-based toddler care than you will for home-based family child care.

Let’s take a look at average childcare costs in Iowa, per CostofChildCare.org.

If you need help finding child care near you, you may want to consider using Iowa Child Care Connect, an online tool the state launched in 2024.

Taxes

Average Taxes in Iowa: 3.8% flat tax

State tax collections per capita in Iowa are $4,034, which ranks 28th in the nation -– solidly in the middle of the pack.

The state of Iowa implemented a flat 3.8% tax on all income levels for 2025, replacing a tiered system. It’s one of the lowest in the nation.

Other tax rates in Iowa are as follows:

•  Effective property tax rate: 1.23%

•  Sales tax for combined state and local taxes: 6.94%

•  Corporate tax rate of 7.1%

Here’s how Iowa stacks up against nearby states.

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Miscellaneous Costs

Once you’ve covered your basic living expenses, you hopefully have enough left over in your budget to enjoy some everyday pleasures. Fortunately, some of Iowa’s biggest attractions are either free or reasonably priced. Take, for example, the “Field of Dreams” Movie Site, which lets you experience the baseball field and farmhouse made famous in the movie for a $20 suggested donation.

Here are some other local favorites worthy of a spot in your entertainment budget:

•  Maquoketa Caves State Park: $0

•  National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium: $24.95 per adult

•  Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden: $12 per adult

•  All Iowa Lawn Tennis Club: $75 for two players, or $100 for four players for one-hour reservation

How Much Money Do You Need to Live Comfortably in Iowa?

We all have different wants and needs, so it’s hard to say exactly how much money you might require to maintain a lifestyle that’s comfortable for you in Iowa. But in Iowa, the odds are in your favor. The state shines when you compare its affordability to the cost of living in other states. Per MIT’s Living Wage Calculator, a single childless adult would need to make $40,540 a year before taxes to cover expenses in Iowa. U.S. News & World Report’s Best States ranking named Iowa as the most affordable state in 2025. And MERIC’s cost of living data also ranked Iowa as one of the top affordable states, at #10.

Explore the best affordable places in every state.

What City Has the Lowest Cost of Living in Iowa?

These three cities in Iowa all have a low cost of living, according to the Council for Community and Economic Research Cost of Living Index for 2024:

Des Moines

Nearly every city in Iowa can be considered affordable compared to most other states, which can be a good thing if you’re buying your first home. But certain areas are more budget-friendly than others.

Here are three of the lowest-cost cities in the state, according to the Council for Community and Economic Research’s 2024 Cost of Living Index.

Waterloo-Cedar Falls

There’s a lot for homebuyers to like about the Waterloo-Cedar Falls metro area. More than just the Black Hawk County Seat, it’s also a hotbed for jobs in manufacturing, technology, health care, education, and retail. And its varied landscape of prairie, wetland, and natural forest means there’s plenty of outdoor adventures to be enjoyed outside of the daily grind.

Burlington

Outsiders may know Burlington as the home of Snake Alley, a 275-foot-long street so curvaceous, Ripley’s Believe It or Not nicknamed it “Unbelievably Crooked.” But those in the know are also wise to the small town’s charm, much-lower-than-average housing prices, and enviable location along the Mississippi River.

Helpful Resources for Future Iowa Residents

(Last Updated – August 29,2025)

Hawaii is a dream vacation for many, but a permanent home for over 1.4 million people. Beyond the iconic beaches perfect for surfing and snorkeling, the islands offer endless adventure with abundant hiking trails and national parks.

However, paradise comes at a cost. The cost of living in Hawaii is the highest of any state. Dive in to discover a clear picture of what it truly costs to live in the Aloha State.

What’s the Average Cost of Living in Hawaii?

Average Cost of Living in Hawaii: $58,115 per year

Hawaii’s cost of living is the highest in the nation, beating out states like California, Massachusetts, and Alaska. The cost of living index created by the Missouri Economic Research and Economic Center (MERIC) sets the national average at 100, and anything higher is more expensive. Hawaii’s index score is a whopping 182.3.

What is the average cost of living in Hawaii in dollars? According to data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis, the average Hawaiian spends $58,115 per year on personal consumption expenditures. That comes out to $4,843 per month for each person, or $19,372 for a family of four.

Here’s what you can expect to spend annually on each type of expense as a resident in Hawaii.

Housing Costs in Hawaii

Median Housing Costs in Hawaii: $1,391 to $3,335 per month

Given the state’s high cost of living, it’s no surprise that home prices are 226% higher than the national average of $368,581. The average home value in Hawaii is $831,289, according to Zillow. In most counties across the country, that would require a jumbo loan. But in a high cost area like Hawaii, the 2025 limit for a conforming loan is $1,209,750 statewide.

If you’d rather rent than buy, here’s what to expect each month based on home size:

•  Studio: $1,391

•  One bedroom: $1,396

•  Two bedrooms: $1,966

•  Three bedrooms: $2,656

•  Four bedrooms: $3,335

•  Five or more bedrooms: $2,633

•  Median gross rent: $1,940

Despite the high average costs, housing values here actually vary widely by location. Here are the state’s top areas and their average home values, according to Zillow.

Utility Costs in Hawaii

Average Utility Costs in Hawaii: $553.23 per month

Utilities are a must-have, with little wiggle room in terms of how much you pay each month. Here’s what the average Hawaiian pays monthly for each type of utility.

Food & Beverage

Average Food & Beverage Costs in Hawaii: $459 per month

Like most other expenses in Hawaii, the cost of groceries is higher here than in other parts of the U.S. Hawaii’s grocery index score is the highest among the areas of the Far West, including California and Alaska.

The Bureau of Economic Analysis estimates that Hawaii’s per capita food cost is $5,507 a year. For groceries, the average monthly expenses for one person is $459, or $1,836 for a family of four.

The Council for Community and Economic Research assigns a cost of living index score specifically for groceries, with 100 the baseline for the country. You can see from this chart just how much higher costs are in Hawaii than in other parts of the Far West.

Transportation

Average Transportation Costs in Hawaii: $11,078 to $20,613 per year

Transportation is actually one area where you can save in Hawaii, with average costs lower than many other parts of the U.S. The most common mode of transport is the car. Interestingly, Hawaii has a high adoption rate of electric vehicles, which increased more than 16% between June 2024 and June 2025. Most islands have public bus systems, though if you want to travel from one island to another, you’ll need to hop on a plane.

Here’s an overview of average annual transportation costs for different family sizes, according to MIT’s Living Wage Calculator.

Health Care in Hawaii

Average Health Care Costs in Hawaii: $9,107 per person, per year

Individuals living in Hawaii can expect to pay an average of $9,107 each year for health care costs. For a family of four, that equates to $36,428. It’s higher than most states in the Far West, including Oregon and Washington. The only states in the region that are more expensive are California and Alaska, which costs $13,015 per person each year.

Child Care in Hawaii

Average Child Care Costs in Hawaii: $956 to $1,690 per child, per month

How much you’ll pay for child care each month in Hawaii depends on the child’s age and the type of care environment you choose. Here’s a breakdown to compare different options at different stages of care.

Taxes in Hawaii

Maximum Income Tax Rate in Hawaii: 11%

Hawaii’s top marginal income tax rate is 11%, meaning that’s the most you’ll pay for state taxes. That rate can be lower, depending on how much taxable income you earn each year. It’s higher than many other states; in fact, only California has a higher maximum rate at 13.3%.

Miscellaneous Costs

Once you’ve covered the cost of necessities, it’s time to plan for having some fun in Hawaii. Here are some typical prices of activities you may partake in while living in the Aloha State.

•  Flight from Oahu to Maui: $135-$165

•  Surfing lesson: $75 to $175

•  Haleakalā National Park: $55 for annual entry pass

It’s still easy to soak in the sun and waves without spending much at all. Most beaches in Hawaii are free and open to the public, so you can enjoy the sound of the surf at no cost.

How Much Money Do You Need to Live Comfortably in Hawaii?

According to the U.S. News and World Report’s Affordability Ranking, Hawaii ranks 48th for overall affordability. It’s less expensive than only New Jersey and California. It also ranks 46th for housing affordability, which could make it more difficult to qualify during the mortgage preapproval process. Exploring down payment assistance programs could help you lower monthly payments thanks to a smaller loan balance.

Data from MERIC’s first-quarter 2025 cost of living list cites Hawaii as having the highest cost of living in the entire nation, with an overall index score of 182. That’s followed by Massachusetts’ score of 145.1 and California’s 141.6.

Explore the best affordable places in every state.

What City Has the Lowest Cost of Living in Hawaii?

Where you choose to live in Hawaii can impact how much you’ll spend on living expenses. Here are the three largest cities in the state and how they compare in terms of cost.

Honolulu

Even though it’s Hawaii’s biggest city, Honolulu is just the fourth most expensive city in the state. But it’s still 9% more expensive than the average cost of living in Hawaii overall. The median household income is $85,428, and the median home price is $834,100 — which means it could be difficult to buy your first home on a standard salary in Honolulu.

Hilo

Hilo is a less expensive option in Hawaii thanks to a cost of living that is 12% lower than the state average. Home prices are more affordable than in Honolulu, with a median price of $455,100. Plus, the median household income is $78,713. If you don’t have equity from a previous home sale to roll into the purchase, you might look into qualifying as a first-time homebuyer to take advantage of home-buying assistance.

Pearl City

Pearl City is another locale where it’s less expensive to live compared to the average cost of living in Hawaii. Expect to spend 11% less on general expenses than in other areas of the state. It’s still 43% more expensive than the cost of living in the U.S., but could help you make your Hawaiian dreams come true. The median household income is $114,682, and the median house price is $872,200.

Helpful Resources for Future Hawaii Residents

(Last Updated – September 3,2025)

Although it’s the second smallest state by land mass, Delaware has a lot to offer, from its white sand beaches to small historic cities to pristine state parks. Plus, it’s one of only five states that doesn’t charge sales tax on purchases, which could lead to big savings over time. Although Delaware isn’t the most affordable place to live, it’s not the most expensive, either — the First State falls near the middle when it comes to cost of living. From housing to groceries to weekend fun, here’s a close look at how much it costs to live in Delaware.

What’s the Average Cost of Living in Delaware?

Average cost of living in Delaware: $57,672 per year

Delaware doesn’t top the list of best affordable places in the U.S., but it’s not at the bottom, either. Instead, Delaware falls near the middle when it comes to cost of living, placing 35th among all U.S. states on the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center’s (MERIC’s) 2025 First Quarter Annual Average Cost of Living Index.

Delaware’s cost of living index number is 103.5, meaning it’s only slightly more expensive than the baseline number of 100. Utilities are more affordable in Delaware than the national average, while housing and health care costs are a bit pricier.

According to data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis, the average personal consumption expenditures per person add up to $57,672. Here’s how these personal expenses break down by major category:

Housing Costs in Delaware

Median monthly housing costs in Delaware: $1,782 for mortgage, $1,182 – $1,811 in rent

Delaware has 448,735 housing units, 73.6% of which are owner-occupied. The average home value in Delaware is $404,612, according to Zillow, which is higher than the national average of $368,581, but low enough to be appealing if you’re buying your first home. Renters have a median gross rent of $1,358 per month.

Here’s a closer look at how much housing costs in Delaware:

•  Median monthly mortgage cost: $1,782

•  Median studio rent: $1,223

•  Median one-bedroom rent: $1,182

•  Median two-bedroom rent: $1,340

•  Median three-bedroom rent: $1,548

•  Median four-bedroom rent: $1,811

•  Median five-bedroom or more rent: $1,438

•  Median gross rent: $1,358

Your costs may be higher or lower depending on where you live in Delaware. If you’re looking to qualify as a first-time homebuyer, you may be interested in these average home values in cities across the state.

Utility Costs in Delaware

Average Utility Costs in Delaware: $420.04 per month

Along with the costs of your home loan or rent, you’ll also need to factor in utility costs. Here’s how much the typical Delaware resident is paying each month.

Food & Beverage

Average food and beverage costs in Delaware: $353 per month

Delaware residents are paying an average of $4,237 per year on food and drinks, or about $353 per month. This is the average monthly expense for one person. If you’re a family of four, you may have a monthly grocery bill of $1,412.

Delaware’s grocery store cost of living index is 100.1, just barely higher than the baseline of 100. Here’s how grocery costs break down on a more local level.

Transportation

Average transportation costs in Delaware: $10,249 – $19,070 per year

If you live in Delaware, you’ll probably need a car to get around. There are some public transit options, though, like the DART First State buses and SEPTA commuter rail. Amtrak trains are also an option if you’re going long distance.

Here’s what you can expect to pay in transportation costs each year, depending on the size of your family.

Health Care in Delaware

Average health care costs in Delaware: $11,091 per person, per year

Health care costs in Delaware average $11,091 per person annually, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Personal Consumption Expenditures report. This is higher than the average annual cost across the U.S., which totals $9,130. Your own costs will of course be higher or lower depending on your medical needs, health insurance plan, and other factors.

Child Care

Average Child Care Costs in Delaware: $892 to $1,403 per child, per month

Child care can be a major expense wherever you live, and Delaware is no exception. According to CostofChildCare.org, child care costs can range from $892 to $1,403 per month for one child, depending on the type of child care. Here’s how the costs break down.

Taxes

State income taxes in Delaware: 2.2% – 6.6%

Delaware uses a graduated income tax system, meaning tax rates increase on higher incomes. The lowest state income tax rate is 2.2%, while the highest is 6.6%. This is significantly lower than the national average income tax rate of 14.5%, according to the most recent data from the Tax Foundation.

Delaware also doesn’t charge a sales tax, nor does it levy an estate tax or inheritance tax. Homeowners can expect to pay a 0.48% tax on owner-occupied properties. According to the Tax Foundation’s 2025 State Tax Competitiveness Index, Delaware’s tax system ranks 18th among all 50 states.

Miscellaneous Costs

Along with budgeting for groceries and rent, make sure to set aside money to have fun in the First State. If you’re up for an amusement park, Rehoboth Funland has classic rides and games by the water. You can pick up an unlimited ride wristband for you and your family for $26 (valid from 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm), or opt for tickets that range from $0.75 for a single ticket to $55 for 100 tickets.

If the ocean is calling to you, check out sailing lessons at the Rehoboth Bay Sailing Association. Members can sign up for a two-hour session for $140, while nonmembers pay $250. If those prices are a bit steep, head to one of Delaware’s scenic state parks. For an entrance fee of only $4 to $10, you can spend the day hiking and picnicking inland or by the sea.

For those looking to dive into culture, the Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library offers American art and more than 60 acres of gardens. Tickets are $30 for adults, $28 for seniors and students, $9 for kids, and free for babies under two.

For the most budget-friendly option, head to one of Delaware’s free beaches. It’s free to visit Rehoboth Beach or stroll along the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk, which is lined with shops and restaurants. Plus, the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand hosts free concerts in the summer.

How Much Money Do You Need to Live Comfortably in Delaware?

The amount of money you’ll need to live comfortably in Delaware largely depends on your lifestyle, how many people are in your family, and other factors. According to U.S. News & World Report, Delaware ranks 34th among the 50 states for cost of living in the U.S. and 33 for housing affordability.

MERIC gives Delaware a cost of living index of 103.5, just slightly higher than the baseline of 100. That means living expenses are fairly close to the national average. Housing costs can also vary depending on where you live in Delaware. Overall, the average cost of living in Delaware is moderate, but you may appreciate the lack of sales tax when you shop.

What City Has the Lowest Cost of Living in Delaware?

Dover has one of the lowest costs of living in the state of Delaware, with a cost of living index of 95.9. Its housing index is lower than average at 85, while utilities have an index of 96.3. According to Zillow, the average home value in Dover is $339,753.

Helpful Resources for Future Delaware Residents