These 5 Cities Are Loved by Americans but Hated by Your Wallet
Written by
Laura Beck
Edited by
Molly Sullivan
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Americans have spoken about their favorite cities, and the results might make your bank account nervous. A recent YouGov survey revealed which U.S. cities earn the highest approval ratings from Americans nationwide. Sadly, loving a city and affording it are two very different things.
Nashville, Tennessee, leads the country in net favorability with a +44 rating, followed closely by San Diego; Colorado Springs, Colorado; and Virginia Beach, Virginia — each with +39 net favorability. While Nashville remains relatively affordable, several of these beloved destinations come with price tags that can devastate household budgets.
Here are five cities that Americans adore but that might leave your wallet crying out in pain.
San Diego
San Diego tied for second place in American favorability with a +39 net rating, and it’s easy to see why. The city offers year-round perfect weather, world-class beaches and a laid-back Southern California lifestyle that’s hard to resist.
But that paradise comes at a steep price. San Diego ranks among the top five most expensive cities in the U.S., according to multiple cost-of-living studies.
- Housing costs are ~112% to 115% higher than the national average
- Median home sale prices are around $970,000, depending on the neighborhood
- Most renters spend 30% of their income on rent, and more than 50% are cost-burdened
San Diegans often refer to these elevated costs as the “sunshine tax.” It’s the price of enjoying a year-round temperate climate. These high expenses have led some residents to move away despite the city’s obvious charms.
Denver
Denver earned a +36 net favorability rating. Its access to nature, strong job market and vibrant culture make it a fan favorite — but it comes at a growing cost.
- Cost of living is ~9% above the national average
- Housing costs are ~23% to 30% higher than the national average
- Median home sale price: ~$625,000
- Average monthly rent for a 1-bedroom: ~$1,945
Denver’s appeal is strong, but so is the financial hit — especially for young professionals and families trying to plant roots.
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Colorado Springs also earned a +39 net favorability rating and is known for its scenic landscapes and military-friendly culture.
- Average home value is around $461,000
- Housing costs are ~10% higher than the national average
- Average monthly rent for one-bedroom: ~$1,500
The city’s high share of VA loans reflects the military presence, helping some homebuyers — but prices remain challenging for many.
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach also received a +39 favorability score. Its beach-town vibe, strong military roots and family-friendly appeal draw Americans nationwide.
- Estimated monthly living costs for one person: ~$2,300(
- Average home value: ~$419,000
The area’s high population of active-duty military and veterans sustains a competitive housing market, keeping prices elevated.
Charlotte, North Carolina
Charlotte earned a +37 net favorability rating. As a growing financial and tech hub, it has attracted a huge influx of residents and businesses.
- Good news: Cost of living is ~1% below the national average
- Not as great news: Median home sale price: ~$435,000
Charlotte remains more affordable than many peer cities — but rising demand is quickly pushing it out of the “cheap” category.
The Favorability vs. Affordability Dilemma
The data reveals a troubling pattern: People who have been to cities generally view them more favorably than people who haven’t, probably in part because people choose to spend time in places they’re more likely to view positively. But visiting and living somewhere are entirely different financial propositions.
Among people who have been to each city, the average net favorability score jumps to +38 compared to +19 for all Americans. This suggests that experiencing these cities firsthand makes people love them even more (which, sadly, only increases the pain of not being able to afford living there).
The Political and Geographic Divide
Interestingly, the survey revealed that people who live in cities generally like the biggest U.S. cities more than people who live in suburbs, towns and rural areas do. This might explain why these expensive cities maintain their appeal despite the costs. The people who experience urban living understand its value, even if they can’t always afford it.
The Bottom Line on Beloved but Expensive Cities
The same annual salary will stretch a lot further in Boise, Idaho, than in San Diego, where the cost of living is nearly 38% higher. This creates a genuine dilemma for Americans who fall in love with these highly rated cities during visits or short-term stays.
The cities that earn America’s highest approval ratings often do so for good reasons; they offer quality of life, economic opportunities, natural beauty and thriving arts and culture that genuinely make life more enjoyable. But that quality comes at a price that can strain household budgets and force difficult choices about where to call home.
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