Comparing the Retirement Cost of Living in Every State’s 5 Biggest Cities  

Retiring in America can look dramatically different depending on where you choose to live, and new data comparing the five largest cities in every state shows just how wide the gap has become.  

From housing to healthcare to the price of a weekly grocery run, living costs vary so sharply that a retiree in one city may spend nearly four times as much as a retiree in another. It’s a factor worth considering if you’re eyeing retirement in any state’s most populous locales.  

A recently released GOBankingRates analysis offers some state-by-state perspective. GBR has compiled a list of each state’s five largest cities, along with each city’s costs of living index and average annual costs for retirees to cover groceries, housing and healthcare. The analysis combines data from the U.S. Census, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Social Security Administration, and Sperling’s BestPlaces. 

• Among the five largest cities in each of 50 states, San Francisco has the highest cost-of-living index for retirees, at 245.5 (on a scale with 100 as the median). Roswell, New Mexico, has the lowest cost-of-living index at 71.2. 
• San Francisco also owns the highest annual expenditures at about $166,000. That’s nearly four times higher than Roswell ($45,000). 
• Residents of Hilo, Hawaii, pay nearly $8,000 a year for groceries, the highest figure in the list. The lowest grocery costs are found in Toledo, Ohio — $4,739. 
• Rapid City, South Dakota, has the highest annual healthcare costs at $12,452. The lowest are found in Albuquerque, at $6,760.

Here’s a state-by-state breakdown, with information on the five largest cities in every state.

In Alabama’s five largest cities, the cost-of-living index ranges from 79 to 94.2. Annual grocery costs range from $4,876 to $5,038, and annual housing costs range from $3,588 to $10,141.  

• Huntsville 
  • Cost-of-living index: 94.2 
  • Annual expenditures: $59,731 
  • Housing: $10,141 
  • Groceries: $5,038 
  • Healthcare: $10,487 
• Birmingham 
  • Cost-of-living index: 87 
  • Annual expenditures: $55,165 
  • Housing: $3,588 
  • Groceries: $4,897 
  • Healthcare: $10,335 
• Montgomery 
  • Cost-of-living index: 79 
  • Annual expenditures: $50,093 
  • Housing: $4,965 
  • Groceries: $4,876 
  • Healthcare: $10,242 
• Mobile 
  • Cost-of-living index: 84.1 
  • Annual expenditures: $53,327 
  • Housing: $6,792 
  • Groceries: $4,912 
  • Healthcare: $9,886 
• Tuscaloosa 
  • Cost-of-living index: 88.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $56,180 
  • Housing: $8,354 
  • Groceries: $5,017 
  • Healthcare: $9,716 

In Alaska’s five most populous cities, the cost-of-living index tops out at 115.5 with the lowest at 104. Annual healthcare costs range from $10,622 to $10,851, and annual housing costs range from $10,975 to $18,865. 

• Anchorage  
  • Cost-of-living index: 115.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $73,236 
  • Housing: $15,476 
  • Groceries: $6,418 
  • Healthcare: $10,622 
• Fairbanks  
  • Cost-of-living index: 104 
  • Annual expenditures: $65,945 
  • Housing: $10,975 
  • Groceries: $6,980 
  • Healthcare: $10,851 
• Juneau  
  • Cost-of-living index: 113 
  • Annual expenditures: $71,651 
  • Housing: $18,865 
  • Groceries: $7,053 
  • Healthcare: $10,741 
• Badger  
  • Cost-of-living index: 104 
  • Annual expenditures: $65,944 
  • Housing: $12,656 
  • Groceries: $7,090 
  • Healthcare: $10,851 
• Knik-Fairview  
  • Cost-of-living index: 110.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $70,256 
  • Housing: $11,517 
  • Groceries: $7,074 
  • Healthcare: $10,775

In Arizona’s five biggest cities, the cost-of-living index ranges from 97 to 113. Annual grocery costs top out at $5,206 with the lowest at $5,012. Annual housing costs range from $12,338 to $21,631. 

• Phoenix 
  • Cost-of-living index: 113.0 
  • Annual expenditures: $71,651 
  • Housing: $15,701 
  • Groceries: $5,106 
  • Healthcare: $7,835 
• Tucson  
  • Cost-of-living index: 97 
  • Annual expenditures: $61,506 
  • Housing: $12,338 
  • Groceries: $5,012 
  • Healthcare: $7,234 
• Mesa  
  • Cost-of-living index: 113 
  • Annual expenditures: $71,651 
  • Housing: $16,058 
  • Groceries: $5,101 
  • Healthcare: $7,835 
• Chandler  
  • Cost-of-living index: 113 
  • Annual expenditures: $71,651 
  • Housing: $19,286 
  • Groceries: $5,195 
  • Healthcare: $7,835 
• Gilbert 
  • Cost-of-living index: 113 
  • Annual expenditures: $71,651 
  • Housing: $21,631 
  • Groceries: $5,206 
  • Healthcare: $7,835 

The cost-of-living index in the five largest cities in Arkansas ranges from 76.6 to 89.8. Annual costs for groceries span $4,917 to $5,248, annual housing costs range from $5,931 to $12,020, and annual healthcare costs range from $7,793 to $7,954. 

• Little Rock  
  • Cost-of-living index: 80.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $51,170 
  • Housing: $7,400 
  • Groceries: $5,027 
  • Healthcare: $7,793 
• Fayetteville  
  • Cost-of-living index: 89.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $56,940 
  • Housing: $12,020 
  • Groceries: $5,248 
  • Healthcare: $7,903 
• Fort Smith  
  • Cost-of-living index: 76.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $48,571 
  • Housing: $5,931 
  • Groceries: $4,917 
  • Healthcare: $7,937 
• Springdale  
  • Cost-of-living index: 89.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $56,940 
  • Housing: $9,995 
  • Groceries: $5,122 
  • Healthcare: $7,903 
• Jonesboro  
  • Cost-of-living index: 79.1 
  • Annual expenditures: $50,156 
  • Housing: $7,678 
  • Groceries: $4,975 
  • Healthcare: $7,954

In California’s five largest cities, the cost-of-living index ranges from 103.7 to 245.5. Annual grocery costs range from $5,206 to $6,119, and annual housing costs range from $14,364 to $66,774. 

• Los Angeles 
  • Cost-of-living index: 161.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $102,531 
  • Housing: $40,086 
  • Groceries: $5,463 
  • Healthcare: $7,623 
• San Diego 
  • Cost-of-living index: 154.9 
  • Annual expenditures: $98,219 
  • Housing: $36,756 
  • Groceries: $5,757 
  • Healthcare: $7,533 
• San Jose 
  • Cost-of-living index: 231 
  • Annual expenditures: $146,472 
  • Housing: $56,726 
  • Groceries: $5,967 
  • Healthcare: $9,123 
• San Francisco 
  • Cost-of-living index: 245.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $165,567 
  • Housing: $66,774 
  • Groceries: $6,119 
  • Healthcare: $9,733 
• Fresno 
  • Cost-of-living index: 103.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $65,754 
  • Housing: $14,364 
  • Groceries: $5,206 
  • Healthcare: $7,886

In Colorado’s five most populous cities, the cost-of-living index tops out at 132.7 with the lowest at 110.3. Annual healthcare costs range from $6,996 to $7,412, and annual housing costs range from $18,653 to $24,650. 

• Denver 
  • Cost-of-living index: 127.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $80,909 
  • Housing: $24,239 
  • Groceries: $5,348 
  • Healthcare: $7,107 
• Colorado Springs 
  • Cost-of-lving index: 110.3 
  • Annual expenditures: $69,939 
  • Housing: $18,653 
  • Groceries: $5,169 
  • Healthcare: $6,996 
• Aurora 
  • Cost-of-living index: 123.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $78,436 
  • Housing: $19,736 
  • Groceries: $5,211 
  • Healthcare: $7,225 
• Fort Collins 
  • Cost-of-living index: 115.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $73,363 
  • Housing: $22,135 
  • Groceries: $5,306 
  • Healthcare: $7,412 
• Lakewood 
  • Cost-of-living index: 132.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $84,142 
  • Housing: $24,650 
  • Groceries: $5,331 
  • Healthcare: $7,081

In Connecticut’s five biggest cities, the cost-of-living index ranges from 104.8 to 138.6. Annual grocery costs top out at $5,542 with the lowest at $5,316. Annual housing costs range from $6,129 to $25,232. 

• Bridgeport 
  • Cost-of-living index: 138.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $87,883 
  • Housing: $12,232 
  • Groceries: $5,316 
  • Healthcare: $10,741 
• Stamford 
  • Cost-of-living index: 138.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $87,883 
  • Housing: $25,232 
  • Groceries: $5,542 
  • Healthcare: $10,741 
• New Haven 
  • Cost-of-living index: 109.2 
  • Annual expenditures: $69,242 
  • Housing: $10,498 
  • Groceries: $5,427 
  • Healthcare: $10,207 
• Hartford 
  • Cost-of-living index: 104.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $66,452 
  • Housing: $6,129 
  • Groceries: $5,411 
  • Healthcare: $9,657 
• Waterbury 
  • Cost-of-living index: 109.2 
  • Annual expenditures: $69,242 
  • Housing: $7,877 
  • Groceries: $5,369 
  • Healthcare: $10,207

The cost-of-living index in Delaware’s five largest cities ranges from 99.9 to 104.1. Annual costs for groceries span $5,348 to $5,683, annual housing costs range from $10,554 to $18,656, and annual healthcare costs range from $9,513 to $9,529. 

• Wilmington 
  • Cost-of-living index: 104.1 
  • Annual expenditures: $66,008 
  • Housing: $11,676 
  • Groceries: $5,348 
  • Healthcare: $9,529 
• Dover 
  • Cost-of-living index: 99.9 
  • Annual expenditures: $62,774 
  • Housing: $10,554 
  • Groceries: $5,426 
  • Healthcare: $9,513 
• Newark 
  • Cost-of-living index: 104.1 
  • Annual expenditures: $66,008 
  • Housing: $13,252 
  • Groceries: $5,542 
  • Healthcare: $9,529 
• Middletown 
  • Cost-of-living index: 104.1 
  • Annual expenditures: $66,008 
  • Housing: $18,656 
  • Groceries: $5,683 
  • Healthcare: $9,529 
• Bear 
  • Cost-of-living index: 104.1 
  • Annual expenditures: $66,008 
  • Housing: $15,158 
  • Groceries: $5,479 
  • Healthcare: $9,529 

In Florida’s five largest cities, the cost-of-living index ranges from 95.7 to 118.9. Annual grocery costs range from $5,115 to $5,630, and annual housing costs range from $10,524 to $18,070. 

• Jacksonville 
  • Cost-of-living index: 95.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $60,681 
  • Housing: $10,524 
  • Groceries: $5,206 
  • Healthcare: $8,488 
• Miami 
  • Cost-of-living index: 118.9 
  • Annual expenditures: $75,392 
  • Housing: $18,070 
  • Groceries: $5,630 
  • Healthcare: $8,909 
• Tampa 
  • Cost-of-living index: 104.2 
  • Annual expenditures: $66,071 
  • Housing: $13,976 
  • Groceries: $5,115 
  • Healthcare: $8,496 
• Orlando 
  • Cost-of-living index: 106 
  • Annual expenditures: $67,212 
  • Housing: $13,357 
  • Groceries: $5,285 
  • Healthcare: $8,759 
• St. Petersburg 
  • Cost-of-living index: 102.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $65,183 
  • Housing: $12,894 
  • Groceries: $5,505 
  • Healthcare: $8,784 

In Georgia’s five most populous cities, the cost-of-living index tops out at 113.3 with the lowest at 76.3. Annual healthcare costs range from $8,115 to $8,784, and annual housing costs range from $4,925 to $15,171. 

• Atlanta 
  • Cost-of-living index: 113.3 
  • Annual expenditures: $71,841 
  • Housing: $15,171 
  • Groceries: $5,185 
  • Healthcare: $8,369 
• Columbus 
  • Cost-of-living index: 78 
  • Annual expenditures: $49,458 
  • Housing: $5,798 
  • Groceries: $4,933 
  • Healthcare: $8,454 
• Augusta 
  • Cost-of-liing index: 80 
  • Annual expenditures: $50,726 
  • Housing: $6,215 
  • Groceries: $5,001 
  • Healthcare: $8,361 
• Macon 
  • Cost-of-living index: 76.3 
  • Annal expenditures: $48,380 
  • Housing: $4,925 
  • Groceries: $4,928 
  • Healthcare: $8,784 
• Savannah 
  • Cost-of-living index: 90.2 
  • Annual expenditures: $57,194 
  • Housing: $9,585 
  • Groceries: $5,085 
  • Healthcare: $8,115 

In the Aloha State’s five biggest cities, the cost-of-living index ranges from 131.9 to 171.5. Annual grocery costs top out at $7,987 with the lowest at $7,284. Annual housing costs range from $17,911 to $55,575. 

• Urban Honolulu 
  • Cost-of-living index: 171.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $108,745 
  • Housing: $34,128 
  • Groceries: $7,289 
  • Healthcare: $8,615 
• East Honolulu 
  • Cost-of-living index: 171.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $108,745 
  • Housing: $55,575 
  • Groceries: $7,641 
  • Healthcare: $8,615 
• Hilo 
  • Cost-of-living index: 131.9 
  • Annual expenditures: $83,635 
  • Housing: $17,911 
  • Groceries: $7,987 
  • Healthcare: $8,435 
• Pearl City 
  • Cost-of-living index: 171.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $108,745 
  • Housing: $39,636 
  • Groceries: $7,331 
  • Healthcare: $8,615 
• Waipahu 
  • Cost-of-living index: 171.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $108,745 
  • Housing: $35,307 
  • Groceries: $7,284 
  • Healthcare: $8,615

The cost-of-living index in Idaho’s five largest cities ranges from 94.3 to 119.6. Annual costs for groceries span $4,791 to $4,922, annual housing costs range from $13,675 to $22,916, and annual healthcare costs range from $8,496 to $9,174. 

• Boise 
  • Cost-of-living index: 119.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $75,836 
  • Housing: $22,545 
  • Groceries: $4,922 
  • Healthcare: $8,496 
• Meridian 
  • Cost-of-living index: 119.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $75,836 
  • Housing: $22,916 
  • Groceries: $4,922 
  • Healthcare: $8,496 
• Nampa 
  • Cost-of-living index: 104.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $66,325 
  • Housing: $17,710 
  • Groceries: $4,812 
  • Healthcare: $8,606 
• Idaho Falls 
  • Cost-of-living index: 94.3 
  • Annual expenditures: $59,794 
  • Housing: $13,675 
  • Groceries: $4,791 
  • Healthcare: $9,174 
• Caldwell 
  • Cost-of-living index: 104.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $66,325 
  • Housing: $16,654 
  • Groceries: $4,797 
  • Healthcare: $8,606 

In the five largest cities in Illinois, the cost-of-living index ranges from 79.0 to 108.1. Annual grocery costs range from $4,702 to $5,337, and annual housing costs range from $5,229 to $19,659. 

• Chicago 
  • Cost-of-living index: 105.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $67,022 
  • Housing: $13,212 
  • Groceries: $5,101 
  • Healthcare: $7,454 
• Aurora 
  • Cost-of-living index: 95.4 
  • Annual expenditures: $60,491 
  • Housing: $9,743 
  • Groceries: $5,048 
  • Healthcare: $7,852 
• Joliet 
  • Cost-of-living index: 95.2 
  • Annual expenditures: $60,364 
  • Housing: $8,102 
  • Groceries: $5,012 
  • Healthcare: $8,131 
• Naperville 
  • Cost-of-living index: 108.1 
  • Annual expenditures: $68,544 
  • Housing: $19,659 
  • Groceries: $5,337 
  • Healthcare: $7,996 
• Rockford 
  • Cost-of-living index: 79.0 
  • Annual expenditures: $50,092 
  • Housing: $5,229 
  • Groceries: $4,702 
  • Healthcare: $8,970 

In Indiana’s five most populous cities, the cost-of-living index tops out at 88.4 with the lowest at 83.4. Annual healthcare costs range from $8,276 to $8,764, and annual housing costs range from $7,933 to $8,561. 

• Indianapolis 
  • Cost-of-living index: 85.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $54,341 
  • Housing: $8,300 
  • Groceries: $4,912 
  • Healthcare: $8,496 
• Fort Wayne 
  • Cost-of-living index: 83.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $52,956 
  • Housing: $7,951 
  • Groceries: $4,781 
  • Healthcare: $8,288 
• Evansville 
  • Cost-of-living index: 83.4 
  • Annual expenditures: $52,832 
  • Housing: $7,933 
  • Groceries: $4,774 
  • Healthcare: $8,276 
• South Bend 
  • Cost-of-living index: 83.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $53,012 
  • Housing: $7,958 
  • Groceries: $4,785 
  • Healthcare: $8,291 
• Fishers 
  • Cost-of-living index: 88.4 
  • Annual expenditures: $56,059 
  • Housing: $8,561 
  • Groceries: $5,067 
  • Healthcare: $8,764

In Iowa’s five biggest cities, the cost-of-living index ranges from 75.9 to 89.6. Annual grocery costs top out at $5,232 with the lowest at $4,928. Annual housing costs range from $6,129 to $10,419. 

• Des Moines 
  • Cost-of-living index: 86.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $54,911 
  • Housing: $7,652 
  • Groceries: $5,038 
  • Healthcare: $8,674 
• Cedar Rapids 
  • Cost-of-living index: 81.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $51,868 
  • Housing: $7,453 
  • Groceries: $4,985 
  • Healthcare: $8,665 
• Davenport 
  • Cost-of-living index: 82.9 
  • Annual expenditures: $52,565 
  • Housing: $6,365 
  • Groceries: $4,996 
  • Healthcare: $8,750 
• Sioux City 
  • Cost-of-living index: 75.9 
  • Annual expenditures: $48,127 
  • Housing: $6,129 
  • Groceries: $4,928 
  • Healthcare: $8,530 
• Iowa City 
  • Cost-of-living index: 89.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $56,814 
  • Housing: $10,419 
  • Groceries: $5,232 
  • Healthcare: $8,809 

The cost-of-living index in the Sunflower State’s five largest cities ranges from 80.0 to 106.2. Annual costs for groceries span $4,917 to $5,324, annual housing costs range from $6,301 to $16,968, and annual healthcare costs range from $8,572 to $9,140. 

• Wichita 
  • Cost-of-living index: 82.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $52,502 
  • Housing: $7,294 
  • Groceries: $4,985 
  • Healthcare: $8,716 
• Overland Park 
  • Cost-of-living index: 106.2 
  • Annual expenditures: $67,339 
  • Housing: $16,968 
  • Groceries: $5,324 
  • Healthcare: $8,577 
• Kansas City 
  • Cost-of-living index: 83.3 
  • Annual expenditures: $52,819 
  • Housing: $6,366 
  • Groceries: $4,928 
  • Healthcare: $8,665 
• Olathe 
  • Cost-of-living index: 106.2 
  • Annual expenditures: $67,339 
  • Housing: $14,893 
  • Groceries: $5,300 
  • Healthcare: $8,572 
• Topeka 
  • Cost-of-living index: 80.0 
  • Annual expenditures: $50,726 
  • Housing: $6,301 
  • Groceries: $4,917 
  • Healthcare: $9,140 

In Kentucky’s five largest cities, the cost-of-living index ranges from 81.7 to 90.8. Annual grocery costs range from $4,813 to $5,143, and annual housing costs range from $6,699 to $10,842. 

• Louisville 
  • Cost-of-living index: 89.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $56,940 
  • Housing: $9,386 
  • Groceries: $5,090 
  • Healthcare: $8,030 
• Lexington 
  • Cost-of-living index: 90.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $57,574 
  • Housing: $10,842 
  • Groceries: $5,143 
  • Healthcare: $8,505 
• Bowling Green 
  • Cost-of-living index: 85.4 
  • Annual expenditures: $54,150 
  • Housing: $8,684 
  • Groceries: $5,006 
  • Healthcare: $9,784 
• Owensboro 
  • Cost-of-living index: 81.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $51,804 
  • Housing: $6,699 
  • Groceries: $4,813 
  • Healthcare: $10,410 
• Covington 
  • Cost-of-living index: 89.3 
  • Annual expenditures: $56,623 
  • Housing: $6,699 
  • Groceries: $5,106 
  • Healthcare: $9,174 

In Louisiana’s five most populous cities, the cost-of-living index tops out at 101.6 with the lowest at 77.7. Annual healthcare costs range from $8,140 to $9,843, and annual housing costs range from $5,305 to $13,530. 

• New Orleans 
  • Cost-of-living index: 101.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $64,423 
  • Housing: $11,557 
  • Groceries: $5,206 
  • Healthcare: $8,632 
• Baton Rouge 
  • Cost-of-living index: 93.2 
  • Annual expenditures: $59,096 
  • Housing: $9,020 
  • Groceries: $5,001 
  • Healthcare: $9,843 
• Shreveport 
  • Cost-of-living index: 77.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $49,286 
  • Housing: $5,305 
  • Groceries: $4,776 
  • Healthcare: $8,140 
• Metairie 
  • Cost-of-living index: 97.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $61,823 
  • Housing: $13,530 
  • Groceries: $5,185 
  • Healthcare: $8,572 
• Lafayette 
  • Cost-of-living index: 90.2 
  • Annual expenditures: $57,194 
  • Housing: $8,274 
  • Groceries: $5,027 
  • Healthcare: $9,716 

In Maine’s five biggest cities, the cost-of-living index ranges from 85.7 to 112.5. Annual grocery costs top out at $5,841 with the lowest at $5,510. Annual housing costs range from $9,015 to $19,738. 

• Portland 
  • Cost-of-living index: 112.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $71,334 
  • Housing: $19,738 
  • Groceries: $5,841 
  • Healthcare: $7,666 
• Lewiston 
  • Cost-of-living index: 90.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $57,574 
  • Housing: $9,272 
  • Groceries: $5,510 
  • Healthcare: $8,149 
• Bangor 
  • Cost-of-living index: 85.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $54,341 
  • Housing: $9,015 
  • Groceries: $5,526 
  • Healthcare: $8,555 
• South Portland 
  • Cost-of-living index: 112.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $71,334 
  • Housing: $18,785 
  • Groceries: $5,724 
  • Healthcare: $7,666 
• Auburn 
  • Cost-of-living index: 90.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $57,574 
  • Housing: $10,405 
  • Groceries: $5,526 
  • Healthcare: $8,149 

The cost-of-living index in Maryland’s five largest cities ranges from 92.6 to 138.5. Annual costs for groceries span $5,143 to $5,914, annual housing costs range from $7,969 to $22,505, and annual healthcare costs range from $7,166 to $7,353. 

• Baltimore 
  • Cost-of-living index: 92.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $58,716 
  • Housing: $7,969 
  • Groceries: $5,143 
  • Healthcare: $7,166 
• Columbia 
  • Cost-of-living index: 127.9 
  • Annual expenditures: $81,099 
  • Housing: $18,918 
  • Groceries: $5,484 
  • Healthcare: $7,327 
• Germantown 
  • Cost-of-living index: 138.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $87,820 
  • Housing: $16,647 
  • Groceries: $5,699 
  • Healthcare: $7,353 
• Waldorf 
  • Cost-of-living index: 115.4 
  • Annual expenditures: $73,173 
  • Housing: $17,091 
  • Groceries: $5,647 
  • Healthcare: $7,192 
• Silver Spring 
  • Cost-of-living index: 138.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $87,820 
  • Housing: $22,505 
  • Groceries: $5,914 
  • Healthcare: $7,353 

In the five largest cities in Massachusetts, the cost-of-living index ranges from 96.2 to 150.8. Annual grocery costs range from $5,337 to $6,661, and annual housing costs range from $10,248 to $42,548. 

• Boston 
  • Cost-of-living index: 150.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $95,619 
  • Housing: $30,276 
  • Groceries: $5,846 
  • Healthcare: $7,598 
• Worcester 
  • Cost-of-living index: 111.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $70,700 
  • Housing: $15,026 
  • Groceries: $5,521 
  • Healthcare: $8,140 
• Springfield 
  • Cost-of-living index: 96.2 
  • Annual expenditures: $60,999 
  • Housing: $10,248 
  • Groceries: $5,337 
  • Healthcare: $7,734 
• Cambridge 
  • Cost-of-living index: 144.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $91,751 
  • Housing: $42,548 
  • Groceries: $6,661 
  • Healthcare: $7,556 
• Lowell 
  • Cost-of-living index: 144.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $91,751 
  • Housing: $17,355 
  • Groceries: $5,573 
  • Healthcare: $7,463 

Michigan In Michigan’s five most populous cities, the cost-of-living index tops out at 105.5 with the lowest at 91.8. Annual healthcare costs range from $6,810 to $6,929, and annual housing costs range from $3,111 to $18,984. 

• Detroit 
  • Cost-of-living index: 91.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $58,209 
  • Housing: $3,111 
  • Groceries: $4,671 
  • Healthcare: $6,929 
• Grand Rapids 
  • Cost-of-living index: 94.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $59,921 
  • Housing: $10,352 
  • Groceries: $4,996 
  • Healthcare: $6,878 
• Warren 
  • Cost-of-living index: 97.9 
  • Annual expenditures: $62,076 
  • Housing: $7,996 
  • Groceries: $4,870 
  • Healthcare: $6,810 
• Sterling Heights 
  • Cost-of-living index: 97.9 
  • Annual expenditures: $62,076 
  • Housing: $11,941 
  • Groceries: $5,085 
  • Healthcare: $6,810 
• Ann Arbor 
  • Cost-of-living index: 105.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $66,895 
  • Housing: $18,984 
  • Groceries: $5,384 
  • Healthcare: $6,853 

In Minnesota’s five biggest cities, the cost-of-living index ranges from 84.7 to 107.2. Annual grocery costs top out at $5,337 with the lowest at $5,111. Annual housing costs range from $10,008 to $15,595 (excluding St. Paul, where housing data is unavailable). 

• Minneapolis 
  • Cost-of-living index: 107.2 
  • Annual expenditures: $67,973 
  • Housing: $15,012 
  • Groceries: $5,311 
  • Healthcare: $6,421 
• St. Paul 
  • Cost-of-living index: 102.3 
  • Annual expenditures: $64,866 
  • Housing: Data unavailable 
  • Groceries: $5,229 
  • Healthcare: $6,446 
• Rochester 
  • Cost-of-living index: 94.2 
  • Annual expenditures: $59,790 
  • Housing: $12,854 
  • Groceries: $5,243 
  • Healthcare: $7,153 
• Bloomington 
  • Cost-of-living index: 107.2 
  • Annual expenditures: $67,973 
  • Housing: $15,595 
  • Groceries: $5,337 
  • Healthcare: $6,421 
• Duluth 
  • Cost-of-living index: 84.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $53,707 
  • Housing: $10,008 
  • Groceries: $5,111 
  • Healthcare: $7,310 

The cost-of-living index in Mississippi’s five largest cities ranges from 76.1 to 91.7. Annual costs for groceries span $4,938 to $5,043, annual housing costs range from $6,712 to $9,333, and annual healthcare costs range from $8,293 to $8,759. 

• Jackson 
  • Cost-of-living index: 76.1 
  • Annual expenditures: $48,253 
  • Housing: $7,678 
  • Groceries: $5,027 
  • Healthcare: $8,657 
• Gulfport 
  • Cost-of-living index: 82.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $52,375 
  • Housing: $6,712 
  • Groceries: $4,954 
  • Healthcare: $8,632 
• Southaven 
  • Cost-of-living index: 91.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $58,145 
  • Housing: $9,333 
  • Groceries: $5,043 
  • Healthcare: $8,293 
• Biloxi 
  • Cost-of-living index: 82.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $52,375 
  • Housing: $7,632 
  • Groceries: $4,954 
  • Healthcare: $8,632 
• Hattiesburg 
  • Cost-of-living index: 77.4 
  • Annual expenditures: $49,078 
  • Housing: $6,910 
  • Groceries: $4,938 
  • Healthcare: $8,759

In Missouri’s five largest cities, the cost-of-living index ranges from 83.9 to 90.0. Annual grocery costs range from $4,959 to $5,159, and annual housing costs range from $7,043 to $10,419. 

• Kansas City 
  • Cost-of-living index: 88.4 
  • Annual expenditures: $56,053 
  • Housing: $8,870 
  • Groceries: $5,080 
  • Healthcare: $8,665 
• St. Louis 
  • Cost-of-living index: 84.1 
  • Annual expenditures: $53,325 
  • Housing: $7,043 
  • Groceries: $5,001 
  • Healthcare: $7,929 
• Springfield 
  • Cost-of-living index: 83.9 
  • Annual expenditures: $53,199 
  • Housing: $7,784 
  • Groceries: $4,959 
  • Healthcare: $8,513 
• Columbia 
  • Cost-of-living index: 90.0 
  • Annual expenditures: $57,067 
  • Housing: $10,419 
  • Groceries: $5,159 
  • Healthcare: $10,571 
• Independence 
  • Cost-of-living index: 88.4 
  • Annual expenditures: $56,053 
  • Housing: $7,427 
  • Groceries: $4,985 
  • Healthcare: $8,665 

In Montana’s five most populous cities, the cost-of-living index tops out at 125.7 with the lowest at 79.6. Annual healthcare costs range from $7,903 to $8,843, and annual housing costs range from $7,480 to $26,662. 

• Billings 
  • Cost-of-living index: 94.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $59,984 
  • Housing: $12,960 
  • Groceries: $5,316 
  • Healthcare: $7,903 
• Missoula 
  • Cost-of-living index: 112.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $71,524 
  • Housing: $20,850 
  • Groceries: $5,453 
  • Healthcare: $8,615 
• Great Falls 
  • Cost-of-living index: 87.9 
  • Annual expenditures: $55,756 
  • Housing: $10,538 
  • Groceries: $5,253 
  • Healthcare: $8,699 
• Bozeman 
  • Cost-of-living index: 125.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $79,704 
  • Housing: $26,662 
  • Groceries: $5,647 
  • Healthcare: $8,682 
• Butte-Silver Bow 
  • Cost-of-living index: 79.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $50,473 
  • Housing: $7,480 
  • Groceries: $5,132 
  • Healthcare: $8,843 

In Nebraska’s five biggest cities, the cost-of-living index ranges from 83.7 to 95.5. Annual grocery costs top out at $5,201 with the lowest at $5,048. Annual housing costs range from $7,797 to $10,882. 

• Omaha 
  • Cost-of-living index: 90.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $57,574 
  • Housing: $10,882 
  • Groceries: $5,069 
  • Healthcare: $9,690 
• Lincoln 
  • Cost-of-living index: 92.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $58,716 
  • Housing: $10,816 
  • Groceries: $5,111 
  • Healthcare: $11,835 
• Bellevue 
  • Cost-of-living index: 95.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $60,364 
  • Housing: $10,456 
  • Groceries: $5,080 
  • Healthcare: $9,682 
• Grand Island 
  • Cost-of-living index: 83.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $53,073 
  • Housing: $7,797 
  • Groceries: $5,048 
  • Healthcare: $12,323 
• Kearney 
  • Cost-of-living index: 88.1 
  • Annual expenditures: $55,862 
  • Housing: $10,750 
  • Groceries: $5,201 
  • Healthcare: $12,528 

The cost-of-living index in Nevada’s five largest cities ranges from 110.5 to 118.6. Annual costs for groceries span $5,358 to $5,463, annual housing costs range from $14,708 to $23,114, and annual healthcare costs range from $7,878 to $8,106. 

• Las Vegas 
  • Cost-of-living index: 110.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $70,129 
  • Housing: $15,158 
  • Groceries: $5,369 
  • Healthcare: $7,878 
• Henderson 
  • Cost-of-living index: 110.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $70,066 
  • Housing: $18,070 
  • Groceries: $5,435 
  • Healthcare: $7,878 
• North Las Vegas 
  • Cost-of-living index: 110.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $70,129 
  • Housing: $14,708 
  • Groceries: $5,358 
  • Healthcare: $7,878 
• Reno 
  • Cost-of-living index: 118.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $75,202 
  • Housing: $23,114 
  • Groceries: $5,369 
  • Healthcare: $8,106 
• Enterprise 
  • Cost-of-living index: 110.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $70,129 
  • Housing: $16,654 
  • Groceries: $5,463 
  • Healthcare: $7,878 

In New Hampshire’s five largest cities, the cost-of-living index ranges from 102.8 to 110.7. Annual grocery costs range from $5,442 to $5,578, and annual housing costs range from $12,338 to $17,286. 

• Manchester 
  • Cost-of-living index: 110.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $70,193 
  • Housing: $14,814 
  • Groceries: $5,526 
  • Healthcare: $7,031 
• Nashua 
  • Cost-of-living index: 110.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $70,193 
  • Housing: $17,286 
  • Groceries: $5,568 
  • Healthcare: $7,031 
• Concord 
  • Cost-of-living index: 104.0 
  • Annual expenditures: $63,662 
  • Housing: $13,114 
  • Groceries: $5,521 
  • Healthcare: $6,946 
• Dover 
  • Cost-of-living index: 102.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $65,183 
  • Housing: $17,210 
  • Groceries: $5,578 
  • Healthcare: $7,039 
• Rochester 
  • Cost-of-living index: 102.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $65,183 
  • Housing: $12,338 
  • Groceries: $5,442 
  • Healthcare: $7,039

In New Jersey’s five most populous cities, the cost-of-living index tops out at 139.5 with the lowest at 111.9. Annual healthcare costs range from $8,259 to $8,572, and annual housing costs range from $14,112 to $25,974. 

• Newark 
  • Cost-of-living index: 135.0 
  • Annual expenditures: $85,601 
  • Housing: $15,965 
  • Groceries: $5,442 
  • Healthcare: $8,394 
• Jersey City 
  • Cost-of-living index: 139.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $88,454 
  • Housing: $25,974 
  • Groceries: $5,662 
  • Healthcare: $8,436 
• Paterson 
  • Cost-of-living index: 124.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $79,133 
  • Housing: $16,071 
  • Groceries: $5,426 
  • Healthcare: $8,572 
• Elizabeth 
  • Cost-of-living index: 129.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $82,113 
  • Housing: $16,972 
  • Groceries: $5,458 
  • Healthcare: $8,259 
• Toms River 
  • Cost-of-living index: 111.9 
  • Annual expenditures: $70,954 
  • Housing: $14,112 
  • Groceries: $5,468 
  • Healthcare: $8,276

In New Mexico’s five biggest cities, the cost-of-living index ranges from 71.2 to 112.6. Annual grocery costs top out at $5,300 with the lowest at $4,807. Annual housing costs range from $5,454 to $21,527. 

• Albuquerque 
  • Cost-of-living index: 92.0 
  • Annual expenditures: $58,335 
  • Housing: $11,676 
  • Groceries: $5,038 
  • Healthcare: $6,760 
• Las Cruces 
  • Cost-of-living index: 83.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $52,546 
  • Housing: $9,518 
  • Groceries: $4,943 
  • Healthcare: $7,334 
• Rio Rancho 
  • Cost-of-living index: 94.9 
  • Annual expenditures: $60,174 
  • Housing: $11,531 
  • Groceries: $5,060 
  • Healthcare: $6,785 
• Santa Fe 
  • Cost-of-living index: 112.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $71,017 
  • Housing: $21,527 
  • Groceries: $5,300 
  • Healthcare: $6,963 
• Roswell 
  • Cost-of-living index: 71.2 
  • Annual expenditures: $45,147 
  • Housing: $5,454 
  • Groceries: $4,807 
  • Healthcare: $7,369

The cost-of-living index in New York’s five largest cities ranges from 87.4 to 172.5. Annual costs for groceries span $5,080 to $6,119, annual housing costs range from $5,391 to $29,694, and annual healthcare costs range from $8,911 to $10,809. 

• New York 
  • Cost-of-living index: 172.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $109,379 
  • Housing: $29,694 
  • Groceries: $6,119 
  • Healthcare: $10,809 
• Buffalo 
  • Cost-of-living index: 92.1 
  • Annual expenditures: $58,389 
  • Housing: $8,314 
  • Groceries: $5,169 
  • Healthcare: $8,911 
• Rochester 
  • Cost-of-living index: 88.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $56,179 
  • Housing: $5,391 
  • Groceries: $5,132 
  • Healthcare: $9,089 
• Yonkers 
  • Cost-of-living index: 157.0 
  • Annual expenditures: $99,551 
  • Housing: $26,277 
  • Groceries: $5,647 
  • Healthcare: $10,698 
• Syracuse 
  • Cost-of-living index: 87.4 
  • Annual expenditures: $55,419 
  • Housing: $6,752 
  • Groceries: $5,080 
  • Healthcare: $9,945 

In North Carolina’s five largest cities, the cost-of-living index ranges from 84.2 to 105.8. Annual grocery costs range from $4,996 to $5,279, and annual housing costs range from $8,274 to $15,727. 

• Charlotte 
  • Cost-of-living index: 102.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $64,993 
  • Housing: $13,675 
  • Groceries: $5,206 
  • Healthcare: $8,047 
• Raleigh 
  • Cost-of-living index: 105.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $67,086 
  • Housing: $15,727 
  • Groceries: $5,279 
  • Healthcare: $8,030 
• Greensboro 
  • Cost-of-living index: 84.2 
  • Annual expenditures: $53,390 
  • Housing: $8,290 
  • Groceries: $4,996 
  • Healthcare: $7,886 
• Durham 
  • Cost-of-living index: 98.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $62,467 
  • Housing: $14,099 
  • Groceries: $5,206 
  • Healthcare: $8,300 
• Winston-Salem 
  • Cost-of-living index: 84.3 
  • Annual expenditures: $53,453 
  • Housing: $8,274 
  • Groceries: $4,996 
  • Healthcare: $8,166

In North Dakota’s five most populous cities, the cost-of-living index tops out at 95.2 with the lowest at 85.0. Annual healthcare costs range from $7,962 to $9,208, and annual housing costs range from $9,026 to $13,927. 

• Fargo 
  • Cost-of-living index: 90.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $57,448 
  • Housing: $11,478 
  • Groceries: $5,222 
  • Healthcare: $8,047 
• Bismarck 
  • Cost-of-living index: 95.2 
  • Annual expenditures: $60,364 
  • Housing: $13,927 
  • Groceries: $5,306 
  • Healthcare: $7,962 
• Grand Forks 
  • Cost-of-living index: 85.0 
  • Annual expenditures: $53,897 
  • Housing: $10,200 
  • Groceries: $5,216 
  • Healthcare: $9,174 
• Minot 
  • Cost-of-living index: 85.1 
  • Annual expenditures: $53,960 
  • Housing: $9,026 
  • Groceries: $5,295 
  • Healthcare: $9,208 
• West Fargo 
  • Cost-of-living index: 90.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $57,448 
  • Housing: $12,272 
  • Groceries: $5,274 
  • Healthcare: $8,047 

In Ohio’s five biggest cities, the cost-of-living index ranges from 77.4 to 91.4. Annual grocery costs top out at $5,185 with the lowest at $4,739. Annual housing costs range from $3,124 to $9,346. 

• Columbus 
  • Cost-of-living index: 91.4 
  • Annual expenditures: $57,955 
  • Housing: $9,346 
  • Groceries: $5,185 
  • Healthcare: $7,581 
• Cleveland 
  • Cost-of-living index: 83.0 
  • Annual expenditures: $52,629 
  • Housing: $3,124 
  • Groceries: $4,907 
  • Healthcare: $7,014 
• Cincinnati 
  • Cost-of-living index: 88.3 
  • Annual expenditures: $55,989 
  • Housing: $9,062 
  • Groceries: $5,122 
  • Healthcare: $7,578 
• Toledo 
  • Cost-of-living index: 77.4 
  • Annual expenditures: $49,078 
  • Housing: $3,720 
  • Groceries: $4,739 
  • Healthcare: $7,674 
• Akron 
  • Cost-of-living index: 80.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $51,234 
  • Housing: $3,495 
  • Groceries: $4,907 
  • Healthcare: $7,386 

The cost-of-living index in Oklahoma’s five largest cities ranges from 84.8 to 88.5. Annual costs for groceries span $4,820 to $5,248, annual housing costs range from $6,831 to $12,312, and annual healthcare costs range from $8,759 to $8,996. 

• Oklahoma City 
  • Cost-of-living index: 85.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $54,214 
  • Housing: $7,493 
  • Groceries: $4,970 
  • Healthcare: $8,996 
• Tulsa 
  • Cost-of-living index: 85.3 
  • Annual expenditures: $54,087 
  • Housing: $6,831 
  • Groceries: $4,820 
  • Healthcare: $8,759 
• Norman 
  • Cost-of-living index: 84.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $56,053 
  • Housing: $7,790 
  • Groceries: $5,127 
  • Healthcare: $8,996 
• Broken Arrow 
  • Cost-of-living index: 85.3 
  • Annual expenditures: $54,087 
  • Housing: $9,280 
  • Groceries: $5,111 
  • Healthcare: $8,759 
• Edmond 
  • Cost-of-living index: 88.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $56,116 
  • Housing: $12,312 
  • Groceries: $5,248 
  • Healthcare: $8,996 

In Oregon’s five largest cities, the cost-of-living index ranges from 104.0 to 128.1. Annual grocery costs range from $5,264 to $5,442, and annual housing costs range from $16,085 to $24,372. 

• Portland 
  • Cost-of-living index: 127.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $80,972 
  • Housing: $24,372 
  • Groceries: $5,442 
  • Healthcare: $7,674 
• Eugene 
  • Cost-of-living index: 106.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $67,593 
  • Housing: $18,547 
  • Groceries: $5,298 
  • Healthcare: $8,132 
• Salem 
  • Cost-of-living index: 104.0 
  • Annual expenditures: $65,944 
  • Housing: $16,085 
  • Groceries: $5,264 
  • Healthcare: $7,861 
• Gresham 
  • Cost-of-living index: 127.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $80,972 
  • Housing: $18,838 
  • Groceries: $5,300 
  • Healthcare: $7,674 
• Hillsboro 
  • Cost-of-living index: 128.1 
  • Annual expenditures: $81,226 
  • Housing: $20,956 
  • Groceries: $5,353 
  • Healthcare: $7,641 

In Pennsylvania’s five most populous cities, the cost-of-living index tops out at 104.3 with the lowest at 80.8. Annual healthcare costs range from $7,513 to $9,767, and annual housing costs range from $6,407 to $10,048. 

• Philadelphia 
  • Cost-of-living index: 104.3 
  • Annual expenditures: $66,135 
  • Housing: $10,048 
  • Groceries: $5,379 
  • Healthcare: $8,649 
• Pittsburgh 
  • Cost-of-living index: 91.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $58,209 
  • Housing: $9,916 
  • Groceries: $5,300 
  • Healthcare: $7,513 
• Allentown 
  • Cost-of-living index: 97.9 
  • Annual expenditures: $62,076 
  • Housing: $9,690 
  • Groceries: $5,248 
  • Healthcare: $8,074 
• Reading 
  • Cost-of-living index: 94.0 
  • Annual expenditures: $59,604 
  • Housing: $8,234 
  • Groceries: $5,096 
  • Healthcare: $9,767 
• Erie 
  • Cost-of-living index: 80.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $51,234 
  • Housing: $6,407 
  • Groceries: $4,928 
  • Healthcare: $7,649

Rhode Island In Rhode Island’s five biggest cities, the cost-of-living index ranges from 106.0 to 108.8. Annual grocery costs top out at $5,536 with the lowest at $5,479. Annual housing costs range from $13,053 to $15,305. 

• Providence 
  • Cost-of-living index: 108.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $68,988 
  • Housing: $13,371 
  • Groceries: $5,515 
  • Healthcare: $7,395 
• Warwick 
  • Cost-of-living index: 106.0 
  • Annual expenditures: $67,217 
  • Housing: $13,702 
  • Groceries: $5,515 
  • Healthcare: $7,396 
• Cranston 
  • Cost-of-living index: 108.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $68,988 
  • Housing: $15,305 
  • Groceries: $5,536 
  • Healthcare: $7,395 
• Pawtucket 
  • Cost-of-living index: 108.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $68,988 
  • Housing: $13,053 
  • Groceries: $5,479 
  • Healthcare: $7,395 
• East Providence 
  • Cost-of-living index: 108.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $68,988 
  • Housing: $14,470 
  • Groceries: $5,526
  • Healthcare: $7,395

The cost-of-living index in South Carolina’s five largest cities ranges from 87.4 to 112.0. Annual costs for groceries span $5,038 to $5,631, annual housing costs range from $7,731 to $25,563, and annual healthcare costs range from $8,174 to $9,767. 

• Charleston 
  • Cost-of-living index: 112.0 
  • Annual expenditures: $71,017 
  • Housing: $17,541 
  • Groceries: $5,542 
  • Healthcare: $8,174 
• Columbia 
  • Cost-of-living index: 87.4 
  • Annual expenditures: $55,419 
  • Housing: $7,731 
  • Groceries: $5,038 
  • Healthcare: $9,767 
• North Charleston 
  • Cost-of-living index: 112.0 
  • Annual expenditures: $71,017 
  • Housing: $10,194 
  • Groceries: $5,111 
  • Healthcare: $8,191 
• Mount Pleasant 
  • Cost-of-living index: 112.0 
  • Annual expenditures: $71,017 
  • Housing: $25,563 
  • Groceries: $5,631 
  • Healthcare: $8,191 
• Rock Hill 
  • Cost-of-living index: 100.4 
  • Annual expenditures: $63,662 
  • Housing: $11,160 
  • Groceries: $5,043 
  • Healthcare: $9,445 

In South Dakota’s five largest cities, the cost-of-living index ranges from 78.4 to 97.8. Annual grocery costs range from $5,232 to $5,274, and annual housing costs range from $8,036 to $11,875. 

• Sioux Falls 
  • Cost-of-living index: 90.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $57,511 
  • Housing: $11,517 
  • Groceries: $5,253 
  • Healthcare: $8,682 
• Rapid City 
  • Cost-of-living index: 97.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $60,013 
  • Housing: $11,875 
  • Groceries: $5,253 
  • Healthcare: $12,452 
• Aberdeen 
  • Cost-of-living index: 78.4 
  • Annual expenditures: $49,712 
  • Housing: $8,036 
  • Groceries: $5,232 
  • Healthcare: $8,852 
• Brookings 
  • Cost-of-living index: 84.3 
  • Annual expenditures: $53,453 
  • Housing: $10,021 
  • Groceries: $5,274 
  • Healthcare: $9,902 
• Watertown 
  • Cost-of-living index: 84.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $53,580 
  • Housing: $10,035 
  • Groceries: $5,269 
  • Healthcare: $10,233

In Tennessee’s five most populous cities, the cost-of-living index tops out at 104.7 with the lowest at 85.8. Annual healthcare costs range from $8,200 to $8,479, and annual housing costs range from $5,613 to $15,502. 

• Nashville 
  • Cost-of-living index: 104.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $66,388 
  • Housing: $15,502 
  • Groceries: $5,353 
  • Healthcare: $8,420 
• Memphis 
  • Cost-of-living index: 85.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $54,404 
  • Housing: $5,613 
  • Groceries: $4,896 
  • Healthcare: $8,200 
• Knoxville 
  • Cost-of-living index: 91.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $58,209 
  • Housing: $11,676 
  • Groceries: $5,110 
  • Healthcare: $8,259 
• Chattanooga 
  • Cost-of-living index: 89.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $56,077 
  • Housing: $9,929 
  • Groceries: $5,090 
  • Healthcare: $8,479 
• Clarksville 
  • Cost-of-living index: 89.1 
  • Annual expenditures: $56,497 
  • Housing: $10,498 
  • Groceries: $5,059 
  • Healthcare: $8,454

In the Lone Star State’s five biggest cities, the cost-of-living index ranges from 91.3 to 129.1. Annual grocery costs top out at $5,201 with the lowest at $4,792. Annual housing costs range from $9,982 to $25,020. 

• Houston 
  • Cost-of-living index: 96.9 
  • Annual expenditures: $61,442 
  • Housing: $9,982 
  • Groceries: $5,148 
  • Healthcare: $8,056 
• San Antonio 
  • Cost-of-living index: 91.3 
  • Annual expenditures: $57,892 
  • Housing: $9,995 
  • Groceries: $4,792 
  • Healthcare: $8,106 
• Dallas 
  • Cost-of-living index: 100.2 
  • Annual expenditures: $63,535 
  • Housing: $11,795 
  • Groceries: $5,201 
  • Healthcare: $8,310 
• Austin 
  • Cost-of-living index: 129.1 
  • Annual expenditures: $81,860 
  • Housing: $25,020 
  • Groceries: $5,075 
  • Healthcare: $8,606 
• Fort Worth 
  • Cost-of-living index: 101.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $64,359 
  • Housing: $11,451 
  • Groceries: $5,127 
  • Healthcare: $8,411

The cost-of-living index in Utah’s five largest cities ranges from x to x. Annual costs for groceries span x to x, annual housing costs range from x to x, and annual healthcare costs range from x to x.  

• Salt Lake City 
  • Cost-of-living index: 121.3 
  • Annual expenditures: $76,914 
  • Housing: $23,750 
  • Groceries: $5,027 
  • Healthcare: $8,581 
• West Valley City 
  • Cost-of-living index: 121.3 
  • Annual expenditures: $76,914 
  • Housing: $18,507 
  • Groceries: $4,907 
  • Healthcare: $8,581 
• West Jordan 
  • Cost-of-living index: 121.3 
  • Annual expenditures: $76,914 
  • Housing: $21,300 
  • Groceries: $4,907 
  • Healthcare: $8,581 
• Provo 
  • Cost-of-living index: 117.2 
  • Annual expenditures: $74,314 
  • Housing: $18,944 
  • Groceries: $4,907 
  • Healthcare: $8,615 
• St. George 
  • Cost-of-living index: 109.9 
  • Annual expenditures: $69,685 
  • Housing: $19,169 
  • Groceries: $4,917 
  • Healthcare: $8,419 

The cost-of-living index in Utah’s five largest cities ranges from 109.9 to 121.3. Annual costs for groceries span $4,907 to $5,027, annual housing costs range from $18,507 to $23,750, and annual healthcare costs range from $8,419 to $8,615. 

• Burlington 
  • Cost-of-living index: 112.4 
  • Annual expenditures: $71,271 
  • Housing: $17,554 
  • Groceries: $5,851 
  • Healthcare: $10,969 
• South Burlington 
  • Cost-of-living index: 112.4 
  • Annual expenditures: $71,271 
  • Housing: $16,468 
  • Groceries: $5,746 
  • Healthcare: $10,969 
• Rutland 
  • Cost-of-living index: 90.1 
  • Annual expenditures: $57,131 
  • Housing: $9,105 
  • Groceries: $5,526 
  • Healthcare: $10,859 
• Essex Junction 
  • Cost-of-living index: 112.4 
  • Annual expenditures: $71,271 
  • Housing: $19,863 
  • Groceries: $5,773 
  • Healthcare: $10,969 
• Bennington 
  • Cost-of-living index: 94.2 
  • Annual expenditures: $59,730 
  • Housing: $7,811 
  • Groceries: $5,227 
  • Healthcare: $10,800 

In Virginia’s five most populous cities, the cost-of-living index tops out at 164.3 with the lowest at 91.4. Annual healthcare costs range from $8,403 to $8,928, and annual housing costs range from $11,001 to $35,664. 

• Virginia Beach 
  • Cost-of-living index: 104.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $66,452 
  • Housing: $14,549 
  • Groceries: $5,264 
  • Healthcare: $8,911 
• Chesapeake 
  • Cost-of-living index: 103.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $65,627 
  • Housing: $14,284 
  • Groceries: $5,248 
  • Healthcare: $8,886 
• Arlington 
  • Cost-of-living index: 164.3 
  • Annual expenditures: $101,179 
  • Housing: $35,664 
  • Groceries: $6,046 
  • Healthcare: $8,521 
• Norfolk 
  • Cost-of-living index: 91.4 
  • Annual expenditures: $57,955 
  • Housing: $11,001 
  • Groceries: $5,132 
  • Healthcare: $8,928 
• Richmond 
  • Cost-of-living index: 95.2 
  • Annual expenditures: $60,364 
  • Housing: $12,828 
  • Groceries: $5,143 
  • Healthcare: $8,403 

In Washington’s five biggest cities, the cost-of-living index ranges from 103.1 to 158.1. Annual grocery costs top out at $5,862 with the lowest at $5,185. Annual housing costs range from $15,211 to $52,887. 

• Seattle 
  • Cost-of-living index: 158.1 
  • Annual expenditures: $100,248 
  • Housing: $38,643 
  • Groceries: $5,704 
  • Healthcare: $7,471 
• Spokane 
  • Cost-of-living index: 103.1 
  • Annual expenditures: $65,374 
  • Housing: $15,211 
  • Groceries: $5,185 
  • Healthcare: $7,158 
• Tacoma 
  • Cost-of-living index: 122.7 
  • Annual expenditures: $77,802 
  • Housing: $19,619 
  • Groceries: $5,311 
  • Healthcare: $7,480 
• Vancouver 
  • Cost-of-living index: 122.6 
  • Annual expenditures: $77,865 
  • Housing: $19,513 
  • Groceries: $5,311 
  • Healthcare: $7,708 
• Bellevue 
  • Cost-of-living index: 158.1 
  • Annual expenditures: $100,248 
  • Housing: $52,887 
  • Groceries: $5,862 
  • Healthcare: $7,471

West Virginia The cost-of-living index in West Virginia’s five largest cities ranges from 76.9 to 88.8. Annual costs for groceries span $5,075 to $5,321, annual housing costs range from $3,773 to $10,273, and annual healthcare costs range from $9,487 to $11,529. 

• Charleston 
  • Cost-of-living index: 81.3 
  • Annual expenditures: $51,551 
  • Housing: $5,825 
  • Groceries: $5,211 
  • Healthcare: $11,529 
• Huntington 
  • Cost-of-living index: 79.0 
  • Annual expenditures: $50,092 
  • Housing: $3,773 
  • Groceries: $5,075 
  • Healthcare: $11,274 
• Morgantown 
  • Cost-of-living index: 88.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $56,904 
  • Housing: $10,273 
  • Groceries: $5,321 
  • Healthcare: $10,698 
• Parkersburg 
  • Cost-of-living index: 77.9 
  • Annual expenditures: $49,394 
  • Housing: $4,610 
  • Groceries: $5,075 
  • Healthcare: $9,590 
• Wheeling 
  • Cost-of-living index: 76.9 
  • Annual expenditures: $48,761 
  • Housing: $4,832 
  • Groceries: $5,148 
  • Healthcare: $9,487 

In Wisconsin’s five largest cities, the cost-of-living index ranges from 86.1 to 103.4. Annual grocery costs range from $4,875 to $5,138, and annual housing costs range from $6,328 to $14,920. 

• Milwaukee 
  • Cost-of-living index: 88.0 
  • Annual expenditures: $55,799 
  • Housing: $7,374 
  • Groceries: $4,875 
  • Healthcare: $7,895 
• Madison 
  • Cost-of-living index: 103.4 
  • Annual expenditures: $65,564 
  • Housing: $14,920 
  • Groceries: $5,138 
  • Healthcare: $7,859 
• Green Bay 
  • Cost-of-living index: 86.1 
  • Annual expenditures: $54,594 
  • Housing: $8,036 
  • Groceries: $4,881 
  • Healthcare: $7,945 
• Kenosha 
  • Cost-of-living index: 90.8 
  • Annual expenditures: $57,574 
  • Housing: $8,149 
  • Groceries: $4,985 
  • Healthcare: $8,505 
• Racine 
  • Cost-of-living index: 86.2 
  • Annual expenditures: $54,658 
  • Housing: $6,328 
  • Groceries: $5,043 
  • Healthcare: $8,505 

In Wyoming’s five most populous cities, the cost-of-living index tops out at 100.3 with the lowest at 93.5. Annual healthcare costs range from $11,732 to $12,537, and annual housing costs range from $10,723 to $14,125. 

• Cheyenne 
  • Cost-of-living index: 100.3 
  • Annual expenditures: $63,598 
  • Housing: $14,125 
  • Groceries: $5,106 
  • Healthcare: $11,732 
• Casper 
  • Cost-of-living index: 94.9 
  • Annual expenditures: $60,174 
  • Housing: $10,723 
  • Groceries: $5,274 
  • Healthcare: $12,537 
• Gillette 
  • Cost-of-living index: 98.2 
  • Annual expenditures: $62,267 
  • Housing: $12,724 
  • Groceries: $5,389 
  • Healthcare: $12,350 
• Laramie 
  • Cost-of-living index: 93.5 
  • Annual expenditures: $59,286 
  • Housing: $12,047 
  • Groceries: $5,097 
  • Healthcare: $12,308 
• Rock Springs 
  • Cost-of-living index: 94.0 
  • Annual expenditures: $59,604 
  • Housing: $11,041 
  • Groceries: $4,818 
  • Healthcare: $12,418 

Methodology: This piece is based on a study in which GOBankingRates determined how long $1 million would last in the five largest cities in every state, both with and without Social Security, by first identifying each state’s five most populous cities using data from the 2023 American Community Survey conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau. It then calculated the national average annual expenditures for adults 65 and older using the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ 2023 Consumer Expenditure Survey, adjusted to 2025 dollars with the BLS CPI inflation calculator, and gathered annual Social Security income figures from the Social Security Administration’s August 2025 data. Next, GOBankingRates produced city-level annual expenditure estimates by multiplying the national spending figure by each city’s overall cost-of-living index from Sperling’s BestPlaces. Using these estimates, it calculated how many years $1 million would last in each city by dividing $1 million by both the city’s average annual expenditures and its expenditures minus annual Social Security income. All data was collected on Nov. 20, 2025.