9. San Diego, California
San Diego has climbed its way into the ranks of America’s most expensive cities. The Council for Community and Economic Research placed it ninth on its national cost index.
U.S. News & World Report even listed it as the most expensive city in the United States for 2023–2024, surpassing New York City and Los Angeles.
Housing drives much of San Diego’s high cost. Its warm climate and coastline elevate real estate values throughout the metro.
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Within the county, Rancho Santa Fe stands out, with median home prices surpassing $4 million, ranking among the nation’s most expensive ZIP codes.
From groceries to basic services, San Diego residents feel the premium pricing in nearly every spending category.
