29. Tampa, Florida
Tampa ranks 18th among the 50 largest U.S. cities when comparing overall household bills and living expenses. A major contributor to this ranking is the city’s rapidly appreciating housing market.
Tampa’s home values have risen dramatically over recent years, creating affordability challenges for new buyers. For individuals, monthly housing expenses average around $1,184; for families of four, that number climbs closer to $2,171 — placing considerable pressure on household budgets.
As Florida’s third-largest city, Tampa benefits from strong job growth, a robust tourism economy, and a desirable coastal lifestyle. This steady influx of new residents intensifies competition for housing and drives prices upward across the metro area.
Several surrounding cities also rank among Florida’s most expensive communities, reinforcing Tampa’s status as a high-cost region. Despite these challenges, the city’s economic strength and quality of life keep demand consistently high.
