Millions of people around the world dream of living in the US, but the country is notoriously expensive. That's why it's important to consider the potential costs and budget for a month before planning a move. Find out what budget an expat should have for living in the US in 2025

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Many people dream of moving to the USA, because this country can rightfully be called a world leader. Citizens of Norway, Belgium, the Bahamas and Croatia go to the state, because America has the best world economy, high quality of life, excellent career prospects and a developed social sphere. However, before packing your bags, it is important to study in detail all aspects of life in the USA. In particular, an important indicator is the cost of living. We will tell you about the average cost of living in the USA in late 2024 and early 2025 below.

Is it expensive to live in the USA?

The United States of America is a large and diverse country with a wide range of living costs, which vary significantly depending on the state, city and even the area in which you choose to live.

The cost of living in the USA is considered relatively high, and the costs of housing, healthcare and education are often among the highest in the world. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average American family spends $7,000 per month on housing and other expenses. To live comfortably, one person needs $2,000-3,000, including rent.

Rental prices in the United States

Housing is the main expense item for those who settle in the United States. However, its cost varies greatly depending on the location, size and type of home. In general, housing costs will be higher in metropolitan areas such as New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco. However, in many small towns and rural areas, housing costs are quite affordable.

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the United States is $1,224. In some of the most expensive cities, such as San Francisco and New York, this figure reaches over $2,300. In Wichita, Kansas and Toledo, Ohio, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is less than $1,000.

- Average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment by city in the United States:

1. New York - $3,300.

2. San Francisco - $4,000.

3. Boston - $3,200.

4. Texas - $2,000.

5. Ohio - $1,000.

The cost of buying a home in the United States

According to the latest statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau, the average home price in the United States is $226,800. This figure rises to $338,900 in the most expensive markets, such as San Jose, California, and Honolulu, Hawaii. Meanwhile, in some of the most affordable markets, such as Flint, Michigan, and El Paso, Texas, the median home price is below $130,000.

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Utility Prices in the USA

Utilities such as electricity, gas, water and garbage collection typically cost around $200 per month for a family of four.

A monthly mobile phone plan with calls and over 10 GB of data is $55.

Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data, cable/ADSL) is $70.

In the winter, your total utility bill can increase to €150-180 due to additional heating costs. It is important to note that prices can vary depending on the area, condition of the home and specific rental terms.

Also add property taxes, home insurance and other maintenance costs to this list. Their amount can vary significantly depending on the location, size and age of the home and local tax rates.

Food prices USA

Food is another important aspect to consider when estimating the average cost of living in the USA. The average person spends $250-$350 per month. Larger supermarkets like Walmart, Kroger, and Safeway are generally more affordable than smaller specialty stores. Farmers markets are another great way to buy fresh, local produce.

The prices for basic products are as follows: milk (1 liter) – $1.06, loaf of fresh white bread (500 g) – $3.58, rice (white), (1 kg) – $4.57, eggs (regular) – $3.68, local cheese (1 kg) – $12.85, chicken fillet (1 kg) – $12.06, apples (1 kg) – $5.30, banana (1 kg) – $1.68, oranges (1 kg) – $4.52, tomato (1 kg) – $4.93, potato (1 kg) – $2.99, onion (1 kg) – $3.06.

Cost of Eating Out and Entertainment in the United States

On average, a meal at a casual restaurant like Applebee's can cost around $15 per person, while a more upscale restaurant like The Cheesecake Factory can cost upwards of $30 per person. Fast food restaurants tend to be cheaper, with a meal at McDonald's costing around $7.

The cost of alcohol in the United States varies greatly depending on the type of drink and where you buy it. On average, six cans cost about $8, a bottle of wine costs about $10, and a bottle of hard liquor costs about $20.

A movie ticket costs around $15, while sporting events and concerts cost between $20 and $100 per ticket.

Transportation Prices in the United States

Many cities in the United States have public transportation systems such as buses, trains, and subways, which can be a cost-effective way to get around. For example, a single bus or subway ride in New York City can cost around $2.75, while a monthly unlimited pass will set you back around $127. In Los Angeles, a single bus or train ride can cost around $1.75, with a monthly pass costing around $100.

The average monthly car payment is $500, and the average monthly cost of gas is $200.

Healthcare Costs in the United States

Healthcare costs can be a significant expense for families in the United States. The average family of four pays around $11,000 per year on healthcare. However, this can vary depending on the family’s health insurance plan and whether they have any pre-existing medical conditions.

The USA is a popular destination for expats to move to, as the country offers foreigners good career prospects, a developed social sphere, a high quality of life and the prospect of receiving a high salary. Even considering the high costs, moving here can be a good stage in your life.

Let us remind you! Living and legalizing in the USA gives you the opportunity to get a good job and a decent salary. To move to the USA, a foreigner needs to get an immigration visa, and then a Green Card. We have already told you about the proven ways to legally migrate to the USA and other important details for expats.

Igor Usyk - Head of Migration department at VisitWorld

To ensure a safe trip abroad, I advise you to contact a specialist. My colleagues, qualified specialists with legal education, will help you avoid unpleasant situations while traveling around the world.

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