Living Expenses 2023: How Much Do Americans Spend Each Month?

As we go into 2023, many Americans are wondering, “How much does it really cost to live in the United States?” In our ever-changing economic landscape, influenced by factors such as inflation, housing markets, and regional variations, the cost of living remains a pressing concern for individuals and families alike. 

To really understand the nation’s economic variety,  Scholaroo embarked on a comprehensive journey, exploring the average monthly expenses for each state. We’re here to uncover the financial realities that Americans face on a daily basis, from the most affordable to the most expensive places to live. 

So, come along as we dig into the complex world of Living Expenses.

How Much Do Americans Spend Each Month?

1. Mississippi – $1,111

Jackson, Mississippi, USA 11-11-2020 Capitol Hill.
Image Credit: magraphy/Shutterstock.

Mississippi boasts the lowest living expenses in the U.S., with an average monthly spend of $1,111. Known for its affordable housing and relatively lower costs for everyday necessities, Mississippi offers a budget-friendly lifestyle.

2. South Dakota – $1,113

Sunset over Mount Rushmore, South Dakota, U.S.A..
Image Credit: jovannig via DepositPhotos.com.

South Dakota follows closely behind with an average monthly expense of $1,113. The state’s low population density contributes to affordable housing and lower transportation costs.

3. Arkansas – $1,144

Little Rock, Arkansas, USA downtown skyline on the Arkansas River.
Image Credit: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock.

With living expenses averaging $1,144 per month, Arkansas is an attractive option for those seeking a cost-effective lifestyle. The state’s affordable housing market and reasonable costs of goods and services make it a budget-friendly choice.

4. West Virginia – $1,149

New River Gorge, West Virginia, USA autumn morning landscape at the Endless Wall.
Image Credit: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock.

West Virginia ranks fourth with an average monthly spend of $1,149. The state’s picturesque landscapes and low living costs make it an appealing destination for those looking to stretch their budget.

5. Ohio – $1,183

DAYTON, OHIO - 11 JUNE, 2013: A view of the skyline of Dayton, Ohio at sunset.
Image Credit: David Harmantas/Shutterstock.

Ohio rounds out the top five with living expenses averaging $1,183 per month. A diverse range of cities and communities offers various cost-of-living options within the state.

6. Alabama – $1,184

Welcome to Sweet Home Alabama Road Sign along Interstate 10 in Robertsdale, Alabama USA, near the State Border with Florida.
Image Credit: Allard One/Shutterstock.

Alabama closely follows Ohio, with an average monthly expense of $1,184. The state’s affordability extends to housing and everyday goods and services, making it an attractive choice for residents.

7. Oklahoma – $1,185

Oklahoma landscape at sunset. Wichita Mountain Wildlife Preserve, Lawton, Oklahoma, United States.
Image Credit: Sarah Quintans/Shutterstock.

Oklahoma ranks seventh, with living expenses averaging $1,185 per month. The state offers a mix of urban and rural living options, accommodating various budgets.

8. New Mexico – $1,196

Ancient dwellings of UNESCO World Heritage Site named Taos Pueblo in New Mexico. Taos Pueblo is believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in USA.
Image Credit: Nick Fox/Shutterstock.

New Mexico’s living expenses come in at $1,196 per month, ranking it eighth. The state’s unique culture, stunning landscapes, and affordability make it a unique place to call home.

9. Idaho – $1,211

View of the Sawthooth mountains of Idaho in the fall in the evening light.
Image Credit: OLya_L/Shutterstock.

With an average monthly expense of $1,211, Idaho offers a comfortable lifestyle with a lower cost of living. The state’s natural beauty and outdoor activities are additional draws.

10. Montana – $1,230

Obnoxious blonde woman does a duck face with pouting lips, hands on hips, in Glacier National Park, near Polebridge, Montana, in a field.
Image Credit: melissamn/Shutterstock.

Montana, with living expenses at $1,230 per month, offers a blend of affordability and access to breathtaking natural landscapes. It’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

11. Missouri – $1,237

View of the Osage River during the autumn season. It is located in the Lake of the Ozarks area of Missouri.
Image Credit: TommyBrison/Shutterstock.

Missouri ranks 11th, with an average monthly spend of $1,237. The state’s diverse cities and affordable housing options make it an appealing choice.

12. Kentucky – $1,238

Thoroughbred horses grazing at sunset in a field in Kentucky.
Image Credit: Patrick Jennings/Shutterstock.

Kentucky closely follows Missouri, with living expenses averaging $1,238 per month. The state offers a mix of urban amenities and rural charm.

13. Louisiana – $1,240

NEW ORLEANS - MAY 6: Central Business District and French Quarter skyline as seen from Algiers Point in New Orleans on May 6, 2014.
Image Credit: Mark Van Scyoc/Shutterstock.

Louisiana ranks 13th, with living expenses at $1,240 per month. The state’s rich culture and affordable lifestyle attract residents from various backgrounds.

14. Iowa – $1,253

Des Moines Iowa skyline and public park in USA (United States).
Image Credit: f11photo/Shutterstock.

Iowa’s average monthly expenses are $1,253, making it the 14th most affordable state to live in. The state’s friendly communities and diverse landscapes add to its appeal.

15. Indiana – $1,255

Indianapolis, IN - August 5: Indiana state fair ground are prepared for opening on August 6.
Image Credit: Alexey Stiop/Shutterstock.

Indiana offers an average monthly expense of $1,255, ranking it 15th. The state’s affordability is complemented by its vibrant cities and cultural offerings.

16. North Dakota – $1,256

Aerial View of Grand Forks, North Dakota in Autumn.
Image Credit: Jacob Boomsma/Shutterstock.

North Dakota comes in 16th, with living expenses averaging $1,256 per month. The state’s strong economy and opportunities for outdoor recreation make it an attractive choice.

17. Wyoming – $1,262

Devils Tower, Wyoming - May 26, 2020: The trading post at Devil's Tower National Monument.
Image Credit: Logan Bush/Shutterstock.

Wyoming boasts an average monthly expense of $1,262, ranking it 17th. The state’s wide-open spaces and relatively low costs appeal to those seeking a simpler lifestyle.

18. Nebraska – $1,268

Welcome to Nebraska.
Image Credit: Michael Kaercher/Shutterstock.

Nebraska’s living expenses come in at $1,268 per month, ranking it 18th. The state’s friendly communities and affordable housing options make it an appealing destination.

19. South Carolina – $1,304

Historical downtown area of Charleston, South Carolina, USA at twilight.
Image Credit: f11photo/Shutterstock.

South Carolina ranks 19th, with an average monthly spend of $1,304. The state’s coastal beauty, historic cities, and moderate costs make it an attractive place to live.

20. Wisconsin – $1,320

Madeline Island is the largest of the Apostle Islands.
Image Credit: Hoogz Photography/Shutterstock.

Wisconsin offers an average monthly expense of $1,320, ranking it 20th. The state’s natural beauty and vibrant culture contribute to its charm.

21. Michigan – $1,321

Colorful Painted Rock Walls Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Park in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
Image Credit: Paul Massie Photography/Shutterstock.

Michigan closely follows Wisconsin, with living expenses averaging $1,321 per month. The state’s Great Lakes, diverse cities, and lower costs make it an appealing choice.

22. Tennessee – $1,326

Downtown Nashville, Tennessee cityscape at night.
Image Credit: photo.ua/Shutterstock.

Tennessee ranks 22nd, with an average monthly expense of $1,326. The state’s music culture, scenic landscapes, and affordability make it a popular destination.

23. North Carolina – $1,328

Public Beach access on Kure Beach on North Carolina's Atlantic coast.
Image Credit: Gary C. Tognoni/Shutterstock.

With an average monthly spend of $1,328, North Carolina offers a diverse lifestyle. The state’s coastal cities and mountainous regions provide various living options.

24. Kansas – $1,353

Wichita, Kansas, USA downtown city skyline at dusk.
Image Credit: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock.

Kansas ranks twenty-fourth with living expenses averaging $1,353 per month. The state’s friendly communities and reasonable costs make it an attractive choice.

25. Vermont – $1,353

Moutain hills and lakes lined with vibrant fall colors trees with orange red and yellow leaves in the vermont and new hampshire rural countryside white mountains.
Image Credit: Don Donelson/Shutterstock.

Vermont follows closely with an average monthly spend of $1,353. The state’s scenic beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities are complemented by its affordability.

26. Pennsylvania – $1,367

Liberty Bell and Independence Hall in Philadelphia.
Image Credit: Songquan Deng/Shutterstock.

Pennsylvania residents have an average monthly expense of $1,367. The state’s mix of cities and rural areas offers a diverse living experience.

27. Maine – $1,382

A wood hand painted and carved sign advertising fresh Maine lobster.
Image Credit: Darryl Brooks/Shutterstock.

Maine boasts living expenses that average $1,382 per month. The state’s stunning coastline and lower living costs make it a captivating place to live.

28. Georgia – $1,411

Jekyll Island, Georgia/USA - March 30, 2016: The stone entrance sign surrounded by water and palm trees Jekyll Island.
Image Credit: Kim Lewis Photography/Shutterstock.

With an average monthly spend of $1,411, Georgia offers a vibrant lifestyle. The state’s mix of urban centers and scenic landscapes provides diverse living options.

29. Arizona – $1,436

Sunset view of the desert and mountains near Phoenix, Arizona, USA.
Image Credit: JeniFoto/Shutterstock.

Arizona ranks twenty-ninth, with living expenses averaging $1,436 per month. The state’s desert beauty and reasonable costs make it an appealing destination.

30. Minnesota – $1,440

Minneapolis downtown skyline in Minnesota, USA at sunset.
Image Credit: f11photo/Shutterstock.

Minnesota residents enjoy living expenses that average $1,440 per month. The state’s natural beauty and strong communities contribute to its high quality of life.

31. Texas – $1,457

The Alamo in San Antonio, Texas, USA.
Image Credit:
sepavone via DepositPhotos.com.

Texas boasts an average monthly expense of $1,457. The state’s diverse cities, job opportunities, and affordability make it a popular choice.

32. Utah – $1,473

Narrows in Zion National Park, Utah
Image Credit: Galyna Andrushko/Shutterstock.

With living expenses averaging $1,473 per month, Utah offers a mix of outdoor adventure and urban living. The state’s affordability is complemented by its natural beauty.

33. Illinois – $1,476

Chicago suburban neighborhood.
Image Credit: Burlingham/Shutterstock.

Illinois ranks thirty-third with an average monthly spend of $1,476. The state’s cultural offerings, along with its urban centers, provide various lifestyle choices.

34. Nevada – $1,515

photo Las Vegas, Nevada, USA at the back of the Welcome to Las Vegas Sign reminding you to drive carefully and come back soon. Las Vegas, Nevada, USA at the back of the Welcome to Las Vegas Sign reminding you to drive carefully and come back soon. Las Vegas, Nevada, USA at the back of the Welcome to Las Vegas Sign reminding you to drive carefully and come back soon. images Download this image Image size / format Large · 8256 × 5504 pixels 28 × 18 in·300 DPI·JPG License type Standard license 1 credit Limited usage in print, advertising, and packaging. Unlimited web distribution. Plan FLEX 750 Subscription - Annual Billed Monthly Credits left 614 / 750 Plan expires: July 17, 2023 1 credit for a Standard License will be deducted from this plan. Used credits are non-refundable. Top choice! • High demand, loved by users Join the crowd, make this sought-after asset yours Stock Photo ID: 1925132639 Las Vegas, Nevada, USA at the back of the Welcome to Las Vegas Sign reminding you to drive carefully and come back soon.
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Nevada residents have an average monthly expense of $1,515. The state’s vibrant entertainment scene and lower living costs make it a unique destination.

35. Rhode Island – $1,516

Beautiful sunset in Block Island, Rhode Island, USA.
Image Credit: WBHPhotos/Shutterstock.

Rhode Island follows closely with living expenses averaging $1,516 per month. The state’s coastal charm and proximity to major cities offer a diverse lifestyle.

36. Florida – $1,571

Colorful flowers Biscayne bay skyline photo. Miami florida usa.
Image Credit: alexmillos/Shutterstock.

With an average monthly spend of $1,571, Florida offers a mix of beachside living and urban culture. The state’s affordability attracts retirees and families alike.

37. Oregon – $1,595

The towering cliffs at Smith Rock State Park near Bend, Oregon, USA at sunset.
Image Credit: Sarah Quintans/Shutterstock.

Oregon boasts living expenses that average $1,595 per month. The state’s natural beauty, outdoor activities, and vibrant cities make it a captivating place to live.

38. Connecticut – $1,640

A beautiful Autumn morning in Shelton, Connecticut, USA.
Image Credit: LBSimms Photography/Shutterstock.

Connecticut ranks thirty-eighth with living expenses averaging $1,640 per month. The state’s proximity to major metropolitan areas contributes to its higher living costs.

39. New Hampshire – $1,640

Fall colours in Franconia Notch State Park | White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire, USA.
Image Credit: Winston Tan/Shutterstock.

New Hampshire closely follows with an average monthly spend of $1,640. The state’s New England charm and outdoor opportunities are balanced by its living expenses.

40. Delaware – $1,681

The rock climbing wall at Alapocas Run State Park, Wilmington, Delaware, USA in the colorful fall.
Image Credit: Bo Shen/Shutterstock.

Delaware residents have an average monthly expense of $1,681. The state’s coastal beauty and favorable tax policies make it an attractive destination.

41. Alaska – $1,703

Chugach Alaska Range
Image Credit: xavitorrents/Shutterstock.

With living expenses averaging $1,703 per month, Alaska offers a unique frontier lifestyle. The state’s remote location and high costs are offset by its natural wonders.

42. Virginia – $1,707

Mount Vernon in Virginia .
Image Credit:
cfarmer via DepositPhotos.com.

Virginia ranks forty-second with an average monthly spend of $1,707. The state’s historical significance and proximity to Washington, D.C., contribute to its living expenses.

43. Colorado – $1,783

Maroon Bells and Maroon Lake - A wide-angle autumn midday view of snow coated Maroon Bells reflecting in crystal clear Maroon Lake, Aspen, Colorado, USA.
Image Credit: Sean Xu/Shutterstock.

Colorado residents enjoy living expenses that average $1,783 per month. The state’s stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, and thriving cities make it a sought-after destination.

44. New York – $1,785

new york city skyline cityscape with statue of liberty over Hudson river.
Image Credit: shutterupeire/Shutterstock.

New York closely follows with an average monthly spend of $1,785. The state’s iconic cities and cultural offerings come with higher living costs.

45. New Jersey – $1,813

Panoramic view of New Jersey City skylines.
Image Credit: Clari Massimiliano/Shutterstock.

New Jersey boasts living expenses that average $1,813 per month. The state’s proximity to major cities and coastline make it a desirable place to live.

46. Massachusetts – $1,836

George Washington Monument at Public Garden in Boston, Massachusetts..
Image Credit: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock.

Massachusetts ranks forty-sixth with an average monthly spend of $1,836. The state’s historical significance, education institutions, and urban centers contribute to its living expenses.

47. Washington – $1,842

The Hurricane Ridge viewpoint of Olympic National park in Washington, USA. The background is snow mountain
Image Credit: Yunpeng Li/Shutterstock.

Washington residents have an average monthly expense of $1,842. The state’s stunning natural beauty, technology industry, and urban lifestyle options are balanced by its living costs.

48. Maryland – $1,871

Baltimore, Maryland, USA Skyline.
Image Credit:
sepavone/DepositPhotos.com.

Maryland follows closely with living expenses averaging $1,871 per month. The state’s proximity to major metropolitan areas like Washington, D.C., contributes to its higher living expenses.

49. California – $2,058

Only on Beverly Drive Los Angeles. Beverly drive in Beverly Hills, California. Vintage style image meant to portray the affluence of Losa Angeles and it's historic neighborhoods.
Image Credit: veeterzy/Shutterstock.

California, known for its beautiful coastline and vibrant cities, has the 49th highest living expenses in the U.S., averaging $2,058 per month. The state’s high housing costs contribute significantly to this ranking.

50. Hawaii – $2,195

Little Beach, Maui, Hawaii
Image Credit: Pierre Leclerc/Shutterstock.

Hawaii tops the list with the highest living expenses at an average of $2,195 per month. The state’s remote location, limited resources, and high demand for goods contribute to its elevated costs of living.

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Vietnam Vet With Rough Beard Looking Up With American Flag Background.
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Veterans have dedicated part of their lives toward serving America through military service. Some spend many years in the military and make it their career.

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young woman with curly hair smiling
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With record-high inflation and cost-of-living increases, many Americans are looking for ways to save money.

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Image Credit: MAYA LAB/Shutterstock.

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Pretty female faun playing flute.
Image Credit: Demian
via DepositPhotos.com.

Mythology has always been a fascinating realm where imagination and reality intertwine. While many mythological creatures have been dismissed as pure fiction, there are a few that might find a place in the realm of possibility.

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Hi! I am a millennial mom with a passion for personal finance. I have always been “into” personal finance but got inspired to start my blog after a period of extended unemployment. That experience really changed the way I viewed my relationship with money and the importance of accessible personal finance education.