11. Fremont, California
Fremont has steadily become one of the priciest cities in America, landing high on national cost-of-living rankings year after year. With a cost-of-living index score of 195.5, residents pay nearly 96% more than the average American for everyday expenses.
Housing is the biggest financial hurdle. The typical home comes in around $1.35 million, a staggering 298% above the national median home price of $338,100. Renters feel the pressure too — a standard two-bedroom apartment averages about $3,140 per month, placing Fremont solidly among California’s most expensive rental markets.
Its location plays a major role. Sitting just north of Silicon Valley, Fremont attracts tech professionals who earn high salaries and compete aggressively for limited housing. That demand pushes prices upward across every corner of the city.
When all expenses are tallied — housing, food, utilities, transportation — Fremont residents face an average monthly cost of $3,328, placing the city 59th out of 2,202 U.S. cities in overall expense. For many, the combination of Bay Area convenience and Silicon Valley access comes at a steep and growing price.
