These Are 12 of the Most Expensive Destinations in the US

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The US is full of incredible The most expensive destinations in the United States are incredible—and can cost a pretty penny. These are the 12 popular destinations that frequently top the list as the most expensive.

that can cost a pretty penny. These are the 12 popular destinations that frequently top the list as the most expensive.

If you’re looking to vacation in luxury, there are several magical US destinations for you to choose from. From epic ski resorts to tropical island getaways, you can find the perfect getaway; just be prepared to pay for it.

Below are 12 of the most expensive destinations in the US. If you have a bottomless budget, then these places are definitely worth visiting.

Aspen, Colorado

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This exciting Colorado town is where high-rolling outdoor sports enthusiasts come to unwind. You can drop hundreds of dollars on gourmet cuisine and party with celebrities at one of Aspen’s hip bars.

You can spend over $2,500 a night at The Little Nell, a five-star resort situated near the slopes of Aspen Mountain. This luxurious hotel offers its guests ski-in and ski-out lifts, fine dining, and more amenities than most guests know what to do with.

Besides its high-end offerings, Aspen is an outdoor paradise, with world-class winter sports and hiking in the summer. If you want the ultimate mountain gateway and don’t mind dropping hundreds of dollars a day, then this alpine town will live up to the hype.

Santa Barbara, California

With Spanish-style architecture, fine dining, world-class beaches, and epic mountain views, it’s hard to beat Santa Barbara, California. However, with all it has to offer, including its world-famous wine, you’re going to need to spend a little extra.

Santa Barbara is a small city that’s just over an hour north of Los Angeles. Hotels such as the 5-star Rosewood Miramar Beach have rooms for over $2,000 a night. The least expensive options run over $200 a night, making this small city one of the most expensive destinations in the USA.

Aside from its high cost, Santa Barbara is one of the most popular romantic getaways in the country. It’s so beautiful that it has been repeatedly featured in movies, TV shows like the cheesy soap opera Santa Barbara, and celebrity weddings.

New York City, New York

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The largest city in the United States is the home of luxury hotels, high-end fashion, and gourmet cuisine. From dining at Michelin-starred restaurants to staying at one of the city’s five-star hotels, such as The St. Regis, you can expect to drop a pretty penny in the ‘Big Apple.’

To enjoy the peak of luxury in New York, expect to spend over $600 a night for accommodation. One of the most luxurious and popular options is the Mandarin Oriental. Then, spend a night in the town, but don’t expect to spend less than $400 for food, drinks, and entertainment.

Although it’s one of the most expensive destinations in the country, you can find more affordable options. Even if you have all the money in the world, you’ll want to do as the New Yorkers do and grab a cheap bagel, hot dog, or slice of pizza. Don’t forget the iconic blue New York Coffee cup while you’re at it.

Seattle, Washington

Known for its incredible seafood, rich music history, and weather that makes London look like Key West, Seattle is one of the USA’s most popular destinations. It’s also one of its most expensive.

According to GOBankingRates, you can expect to spend close to $2,000 for a three-night vacation. The study took the average cost per night for the area’s least expensive hotels, food and drink costs, and airfare to get the numbers.

Like many cities in the USA, Seattle’s prices have gone up following the tech boom. Companies such as Amazon have made the city a desirable place to live and work, and the city’s short-term rentals continue to get more expensive. To enjoy the city in style, you can stay in the 5-star Grand Hyatt Seattle.

Regardless of its high price, Seattle is still a top destination for travelers. You can find some of the best restaurants in the country. The city also has world-famous nightlife, museums, and endless craft breweries. A three-day weekend in Seattle may cost a pretty penny, but it sure is a lot of fun.

San Francisco, California

It’s no surprise that San Francisco ranks high on the list of the most expensive places to travel. With its mega billionaires and high-end restaurants, the city by the bay is far from cheap.

According to a study that analyzed data from leading travel companies and tourism organizations, the city is the fourth most expensive destination in the country. From expensive hotels and short-term rentals to expensive meals, you’ll have to save up to visit this Californian city.

For people who can afford it, San Francisco is a city that’s full of culture, nature, and entertainment. You’ll have beautiful beaches, museums, nightlife, and endless west coast charm to experience. To get the most out of this amazing destination, consider staying at The Ritz-Carlton, a classic 5-star hotel near Chinatown.

Palm Beach, Florida

The small coastal city of Palm Beach has, for decades, been a playground for the rich. From its luxury hotels, such as the world-famous 5-star Four Seasons Resort, to its exclusive golf courses, you’ll need to drop a few bills to soak up the sun in this Floridian destination.

Palm Beach was built on a narrow strip of land between the Atlantic Ocean and the Lake Worth Lagoon. You’ll find some of the most expensive properties in the country, as well as exclusive clubs, golf resorts, and boutique hotels.

If you want to save money, you can opt to stay across the lagoon in West Palm Beach and drive over. West Palm Beach has plenty to see and do, and by combining these destinations, you can experience one of Florida’s most exciting and pricey areas.

San Diego, California

California’s southernmost city is rich in nature, entertainment, and cuisine. It’s also one of the priciest destinations in the country. If you travel during the summer months, you can expect to spend just over $2,000 a week, including airfare.

Outside of summer, you can find some great deals, as the gloomy weather keeps tourist numbers down. As soon as the sun comes out, people come by the millions to experience the city’s charming coast vibes and warm weather.

San Diego has plenty to do, including events such as Comic Con and theme parks like Legoland in nearby Carlsbad. You’ll also have some of the best cuisine in the country, as well as the world-famous San Diego Zoo to explore. To get the most out of your stay, consider staying at the 5-star Fairmont Grand Del Mar.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

This winter sports capital is one of the most popular destinations for skiers in the USA. Because of its remoteness and exclusivity, it’s also one of the most expensive. Travelers can expect to spend over $3,000 a week or more to experience this outdoor paradise.

According to Realtor.com, the average medium home price in Jackson Hole is over $3 million. Rental properties and hotels have followed suit, and, like much of the country, food and drink costs have gone up considerably.

That said, if you love the outdoors and don’t mind spending extra for your vacation, Jackson Hole offers endless excitement. Within an hour from the city, you’ll have epic skiing, hiking in the Grand Tetons, and the chance to see Yellowstone National Park. For the ultimate in luxury, you can stay at the 5-star Four Seasons Resort and Residences.

Key West, Florida

Known as the vacation destination for writers, artists, and guitar-strumming fans of bottomless margaritas, Key West is and always has been a legendary place to visit. Because of its popularity, it’s also quite expensive.

You can plan on spending over $2,000 a week on the island for a single person. With its high food cost, hotel prices, and exclusivity, Key West is one of the most expensive destinations in the country.

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Still, for anyone who is looking for island charm and history, few places can compare to Key West. Don’t miss the Hemingway Home and Museum or the southernmost point in the USA. If you want to experience the pinnacle of luxury, you can stay at the 5-star H2O Suites Hotel.

Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

The small island of Martha’s Vineyard has always attracted the wealthy. From former presidents to famous actors, you’ll rub shoulders with the who’s who of America.

Because of its exclusivity and limited accommodations, expect to pay well over $3,000 a week. Prices go up considerably during the summer. This is when wealthy vacationers from cities like New York and Boston come to the island en masse.

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Still, if you’re looking for epic beaches, historical places, and some of the most famous golf resorts in the country, this is the place for you. For accommodation that’s the height of Martha’s Vineyard luxury, you can stay at the Harbor View Hotel.

Maui, Hawaii

Best Beaches in the World Kapalua Bay Beach, Hawaii, USA — © Kyrien / Adobe Stock

The island of Maui is both indescribably beautiful and expensive to visit. According to a report from the Hawaii Vacation Guide, the island will likely set you back over $5,000 for a week-long getaway. The report is based on average numbers from the Hawaii Tourism Authority.

One of the main reasons for Maui’s extra cost is its remoteness. Food, fuel, and goods have to be imported. What’s more, the island is mostly rural, with just small towns and villages offering cozy B&Bs and inns. You’ll also have world-class 5-star resorts such as the Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort.

If you can afford it, Maui is a place like no other. You’ll experience the island’s rich cultural heritage, world-famous views of the Pacific Ocean, and tropical landscapes that look like they’re right out of a painting.

Santa Monica, California

Los Angeles’ most exclusive beachside city is full of summer fun and great vibes. It’s also a costly place to spend your vacation. According to a 2023 survey by Cheaphotels.org, the average room rate ran close to $300 a night. If you really want to splurge, consider staying at the iconic Hotel Casa del Mar.

On top of room and board costs are Santa Monica’s bars and restaurants. The city is so famous for its cuisine that you’ll want to budget extra just to wine and dine.

Other activities include beachside fun, world-class luxury shopping, and, of course, the famous Santa Monica Pier. If you want endless fun in the sun and California charm, Santa Monica is still one of the top destinations you can find.