Cost of Living in the US
Land of opportunity; offers world-leading salaries and diversity, though healthcare and visa barriers are significant hurdles.
Explore the Wise account£2,163
Average cost per month
Distribution of Expenses
Road trips & innovation
Every landscape imaginable
Global superpower; massive market
Cost of living breakdown for United States
You can expect to spend around £2,163 per month for 1 person as of 2026, on common living costs such as housing, food, and transport.
Housing
Standard of Living
Food & Drink
United States average costs for food and drink.
Salary & Services
United States average salaries and services.
Average living costs in the US
| Item | Average price | Price range |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom Apartment in City CentreRent Per Month | £1,223.37 | £775.28 - £3,174.45 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartment Outside of CentreRent Per Month | £997.20 | £660.10 - £2,165.62 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartment in City CentreRent Per Month | £1,980.10 | £1,222.73 - £7,099.56 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartment Outside of CentreRent Per Month | £1,639.27 | £1,070.62 - £3,938.34 |
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Cities in United States
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Frequently asked questions
The cost of living in the US depends on your lifestyle and location. On average, a single person needs £909 per month without rent, while a family of four requires £3,144. Renting a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs an additional £1,223 on average.
Public transport prices vary, but generally, a one-way ticket for local transport in the US costs £2. If you are commuting regularly, a monthly pass is typically priced at £48.
The average monthly net salary (after tax) in the US is currently £3,183.
Dining costs depend on your choices. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in the US costs approximately £15, while a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant costs around £55.
The estimated monthly cost of living in the US for a single person is £909, excluding rent.
For a family of four living in the US, the estimated monthly costs are £3,144, not including rent.
Rent prices in the US depend on location. The average monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in a city centre is £1,223, compared to £997 outside the centre. For a 3-bedroom apartment, the average is £1,980 in city centres and £1,639 in suburban areas.
Basic utilities in the US (including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage for an 85m² apartment) cost an average of £158 per month. Internet access typically adds another £54.