MenuClose
Browse all guides

Room for a few good ideas

Your trip starts here.

Keep the places and guides you want to come back to. Saved on this browser, with no account needed.

    Nothing saved yet. Find a place that catches your eye, then choose “Save to my trip” on its guide.

    Find somewhere new →

    Plan the practical part

    United States Travel Cost Guide: How Much to Visit in 2026?

    Daily budget guide for United States (prices in USD)Updated

    • Budget$75–$225 / day
    • Mid-range$225–$400 / day
    • Luxury$400–$600 / day
    United States Capitol
    Daily budget

    What a day in United States costs

    Budget

    $75–$225 / day

    Hostels or guesthouses, street food and markets, public transport.

    Mid-range

    $225–$400 / day

    Comfortable hotels, sit-down restaurants, a few paid activities.

    Luxury

    $400–$600 / day

    Boutique or five-star stays, fine dining, private tours and transfers.

    Estimates are per person, per day, in USD.

    Make it your trip

    What could your trip cost?

    Choose your pace and travel style. Start with the published daily estimate, then make room for the things you care about.

    Estimated trip budget · USD

    $1,575–$2,800

    7 days · 1 traveler · Mid-range

    Daily budget per person
    $225–$400
    Season adjustment
    ×1

    An editorial estimate, not a booking quote. Daily budget × days × travelers × season adjustment. Add flights, insurance, and any costs outside the guide separately. Shared rooms and child rates may change your total.

    Cost of living

    Everyday prices

    Prices
    [{"good_id":1,"item_name":"Price per square meter to Buy Apartment Outside of City Center","category_id":1,"category_name":"Buy Apartment","min":968.75,"avg":1076.39,"max":1184.03,"usd":{"min":"968.75","avg":"1076.39","max":"1184.03"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":2,"item_name":"Price per square meter to Buy Apartment in City Center","category_id":1,"category_name":"Buy Apartment","min":968.75,"avg":1076.39,"max":1184.03,"usd":{"min":"968.75","avg":"1076.39","max":"1184.03"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":4,"item_name":"Private Preschool or Kindergarten, Monthly for 1 Child","category_id":2,"category_name":"Childcare","min":270,"avg":300,"max":330,"usd":{"min":"270.00","avg":"300.00","max":"330.00"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":5,"item_name":"Pair of Jeans in a Chain Store Like George, H&M, Zara, etc.","category_id":3,"category_name":"Clothing And Shoes","min":21,"avg":42.75,"max":64.5,"usd":{"min":"21.00","avg":"42.75","max":"64.50"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":6,"item_name":"Pair of Leather Business Shoes","category_id":3,"category_name":"Clothing And Shoes","min":81,"avg":90,"max":99,"usd":{"min":"81.00","avg":"90.00","max":"99.00"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":7,"item_name":"Pair of Running Shoes, Mid-Range Price","category_id":3,"category_name":"Clothing And Shoes","min":72,"avg":80,"max":88,"usd":{"min":"72.00","avg":"80.00","max":"88.00"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":9,"item_name":"Apples, 1 kg","category_id":4,"category_name":"Markets","min":4.41,"avg":5.51,"max":6.61,"usd":{"min":"4.41","avg":"5.51","max":"6.61"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":10,"item_name":"Banana, 1 kg","category_id":4,"category_name":"Markets","min":1.32,"avg":1.4,"max":1.48,"usd":{"min":"1.32","avg":"1.40","max":"1.48"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":11,"item_name":"Beef Round or Equivalent Back Leg Red Meat, 1 kg ","category_id":4,"category_name":"Markets","min":5.71,"avg":8.37,"max":11.03,"usd":{"min":"5.71","avg":"8.37","max":"11.03"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":12,"item_name":"Bottle of Wine, Mid-Range Price","category_id":4,"category_name":"Markets","min":6.99,"avg":8.5,"max":10.01,"usd":{"min":"6.99","avg":"8.50","max":"10.01"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":13,"item_name":"Chicken Breasts, Boneless and Skinless, 1 kg","category_id":4,"category_name":"Markets","min":8.8,"avg":9.91,"max":11.02,"usd":{"min":"8.80","avg":"9.91","max":"11.02"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":14,"item_name":"Domestic Beer, 0.5 liter Bottle","category_id":4,"category_name":"Markets","min":3.86,"avg":4.29,"max":4.72,"usd":{"min":"3.86","avg":"4.29","max":"4.72"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":15,"item_name":"Eggs, 12 pack","category_id":4,"category_name":"Markets","min":0.9,"avg":1,"max":1.1,"usd":{"min":"0.90","avg":"1.00","max":"1.10"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":17,"item_name":"Lettuce, 1 head","category_id":4,"category_name":"Markets","min":0.88,"avg":1.29,"max":1.7,"usd":{"min":"0.88","avg":"1.29","max":"1.70"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":18,"item_name":"Loaf of Fresh White Bread, 0.5 kg","category_id":4,"category_name":"Markets","min":1.08,"avg":1.37,"max":1.66,"usd":{"min":"1.08","avg":"1.37","max":"1.66"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":19,"item_name":"Local Cheese, 1 kg","category_id":4,"category_name":"Markets","min":5.71,"avg":6.16,"max":6.61,"usd":{"min":"5.71","avg":"6.16","max":"6.61"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":20,"item_name":"Milk, Regular,1 liter","category_id":4,"category_name":"Markets","min":0.79,"avg":0.92,"max":1.06,"usd":{"min":"0.79","avg":"0.92","max":"1.06"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":21,"item_name":"Onion, 1 kg","category_id":4,"category_name":"Markets","min":1.1,"avg":2.08,"max":3.06,"usd":{"min":"1.10","avg":"2.08","max":"3.06"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":22,"item_name":"Oranges, 1 kg","category_id":4,"category_name":"Markets","min":2.65,"avg":4.63,"max":6.61,"usd":{"min":"2.65","avg":"4.63","max":"6.61"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":23,"item_name":"Pack of Cigarettes","category_id":4,"category_name":"Markets","min":6.99,"avg":7,"max":7.01,"usd":{"min":"6.99","avg":"7.00","max":"7.01"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":24,"item_name":"Potato, 1 kg","category_id":4,"category_name":"Markets","min":1.1,"avg":2.2,"max":3.31,"usd":{"min":"1.10","avg":"2.20","max":"3.31"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":25,"item_name":"White Rice, 1 kg","category_id":4,"category_name":"Markets","min":2.2,"avg":4.4,"max":6.6,"usd":{"min":"2.20","avg":"4.40","max":"6.60"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":26,"item_name":"Tomato, 1 kg","category_id":4,"category_name":"Markets","min":3.97,"avg":4.41,"max":4.85,"usd":{"min":"3.97","avg":"4.41","max":"4.85"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":27,"item_name":"Water, 1.5 liter Bottle","category_id":4,"category_name":"Markets","min":1.99,"avg":2,"max":2.01,"usd":{"min":"1.99","avg":"2.00","max":"2.01"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":28,"item_name":"One bedroom apartment outside of city centre","category_id":5,"category_name":"Rent Per Month","min":450,"avg":500,"max":550,"usd":{"min":"450.00","avg":"500.00","max":"550.00"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":29,"item_name":"One bedroom apartment in city centre","category_id":5,"category_name":"Rent Per Month","min":450,"avg":500,"max":550,"usd":{"min":"450.00","avg":"500.00","max":"550.00"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":30,"item_name":"Three bedroom apartment outside of city centre","category_id":5,"category_name":"Rent Per Month","min":810,"avg":900,"max":990,"usd":{"min":"810.00","avg":"900.00","max":"990.00"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":31,"item_name":"Three bedroom apartment in city centre","category_id":5,"category_name":"Rent Per Month","min":810,"avg":900,"max":990,"usd":{"min":"810.00","avg":"900.00","max":"990.00"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":32,"item_name":"Cappuccino","category_id":6,"category_name":"Restaurants","min":3,"avg":4.08,"max":5.16,"usd":{"min":"3.00","avg":"4.08","max":"5.16"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":33,"item_name":"Coca-Cola, 0.33 liter Bottle","category_id":6,"category_name":"Restaurants","min":1.25,"avg":1.33,"max":1.5,"usd":{"min":"1.25","avg":"1.33","max":"1.50"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":34,"item_name":"Domestic Beer, 0.5 liter Draught","category_id":6,"category_name":"Restaurants","min":3,"avg":3.75,"max":6,"usd":{"min":"3.00","avg":"3.75","max":"6.00"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":35,"item_name":"Imported Beer, 0.33 liter Bottle","category_id":6,"category_name":"Restaurants","min":4.5,"avg":5,"max":5.5,"usd":{"min":"4.50","avg":"5.00","max":"5.50"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":36,"item_name":"McMeal at McDonalds or Alternative Combo Meal","category_id":6,"category_name":"Restaurants","min":3.96,"avg":6,"max":9,"usd":{"min":"3.96","avg":"6.00","max":"9.00"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":37,"item_name":"Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course","category_id":6,"category_name":"Restaurants","min":20,"avg":30,"max":40,"usd":{"min":"20.00","avg":"30.00","max":"40.00"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":38,"item_name":"Meal in Inexpensive Restaurant","category_id":6,"category_name":"Restaurants","min":6.99,"avg":8,"max":16,"usd":{"min":"6.99","avg":"8.00","max":"16.00"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":40,"item_name":"Average Monthly Net Salary, After Tax","category_id":7,"category_name":"Salaries And Financing","min":3075,"avg":3416.67,"max":3758.34,"usd":{"min":"3075.00","avg":"3416.67","max":"3758.34"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":42,"item_name":"Cinema ticket, 1 Seat","category_id":8,"category_name":"Sports And Leisure","min":8.1,"avg":9,"max":9.9,"usd":{"min":"8.10","avg":"9.00","max":"9.90"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":43,"item_name":"Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult","category_id":8,"category_name":"Sports And Leisure","min":31.5,"avg":35,"max":38.5,"usd":{"min":"31.50","avg":"35.00","max":"38.50"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":45,"item_name":"Gasoline, 1 liter","category_id":9,"category_name":"Transportation","min":0.48,"avg":0.59,"max":0.75,"usd":{"min":"0.48","avg":"0.59","max":"0.75"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":49,"item_name":"Taxi, price for 1 km, Normal Tariff","category_id":9,"category_name":"Transportation","min":2.91,"avg":3.23,"max":3.55,"usd":{"min":"2.91","avg":"3.23","max":"3.55"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":50,"item_name":"Taxi Start, Normal Tariff","category_id":9,"category_name":"Transportation","min":3,"avg":3.75,"max":4.5,"usd":{"min":"3.00","avg":"3.75","max":"4.50"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":52,"item_name":"Volkswagen Golf 1.4 90 KW Trendline (Or Equivalent New Car)","category_id":9,"category_name":"Transportation","min":31500,"avg":35000,"max":38500,"usd":{"min":"31500.00","avg":"35000.00","max":"38500.00"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":54,"item_name":"Basic utilities for 85 square meter Apartment including Electricity, Heating or Cooling, Water and Garbage","category_id":10,"category_name":"Utilities Per Month","min":141.81,"avg":156.68,"max":171.55,"usd":{"min":"141.81","avg":"156.68","max":"171.55"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":55,"item_name":"Internet, 60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL","category_id":10,"category_name":"Utilities Per Month","min":53.51,"avg":59.5,"max":200,"usd":{"min":"53.51","avg":"59.50","max":"200.00"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":58,"item_name":"Water, 0.33 liter Bottle","category_id":4,"category_name":"Markets","min":1,"avg":1.17,"max":1.34,"usd":{"min":"1.00","avg":"1.17","max":"1.34"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":64,"item_name":"Summer Dress in a Chain Store Like George, H&M, Zara, etc.","category_id":3,"category_name":"Clothing And Shoes","min":22.5,"avg":25,"max":27.5,"usd":{"min":"22.50","avg":"25.00","max":"27.50"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"},{"good_id":65,"item_name":"Mortgage Interest Rate in Percentages for 20 Years Fixed-Rate, Yearly, Fixed-Rate","category_id":7,"category_name":"Salaries And Financing","min":4.09,"avg":4.54,"max":4.99,"measure":"percent"},{"good_id":68,"item_name":"Imported Beer, 0.33 liter Bottle","category_id":4,"category_name":"Markets","min":3.6,"avg":4,"max":4.4,"usd":{"min":"3.60","avg":"4.00","max":"4.40"},"measure":"money","currency_code":"USD"}]
    Currency
    USD
    Exchange rate
    $1

    Typical prices at the time of research, in USD; expect variation by neighbourhood and season.

    Seasonal pricing

    Prices through the year

    • Low×0.8
    • High×1.25
    • Shoulder×0.95

    Budget: January, May, July typically offer lower accommodation prices. Shoulder seasons provide best weather-price balance.

    Crowds: Spring and fall see fewer crowds at major attractions and national parks while maintaining good weather.

    Weather: Spring and fall offer moderate weather nationwide. Summer hot in south, perfect in north. Winter varies dramatically by region.

    Activities: Year-round activities available. National parks accessible most months, with seasonal closures in mountain areas.

    Overview

    The United States spans six time zones from Hawaii to Maine, offering incredible diversity of landscapes, cultures, and experiences. Daily costs range from $80-$120 in affordable Southern and Midwestern cities to $200-$400+ in NYC, SF, and LA. National parks, road trips, and regional food cultures are the great American travel experiences.

    The local currency is USD. Budget travelers can explore comfortably for $80-$120/day, mid-range visitors should plan $200-$280/day, and luxury travel runs $550+/day. Timing your visit during shoulder season and choosing local dining options over tourist restaurants will stretch your budget significantly.

    Daily Budget Breakdown

    Budget ($80-$120/day): Stay in budget accommodation ($50-$110/night), eat at local restaurants and street food ($15-$30/day), use public transport and walk, and enjoy free attractions and natural scenery.

    Mid-Range ($200-$280/day): Book comfortable hotels ($130-$300/night), dine at restaurants ($35-$60/day), add guided tours and paid attractions, and use a mix of public and private transport.

    Luxury ($550+/day): Reserve luxury accommodation ($350-$800+/night), enjoy fine dining ($70-$180/day), book private guides and exclusive experiences, and travel in maximum comfort.

    How to Save Money

    • Costs vary enormously — the South and Midwest are 30-50% cheaper than coastal cities. Camp in national parks. Use budget airlines. Cook in vacation rentals. Buy the America the Beautiful pass ($80/year). Road trips offer the best value. Happy hours and lunch specials save on dining.

    Worth the Splurge

    • The destination’s most iconic experience — the memory will outlast the cost.
    • A signature local meal at a top-rated restaurant.
    • A guided tour of the most important cultural or natural attraction.
    • A unique activity that cannot be replicated elsewhere.
    Tips

    Stretch your budget

    Ways to save
    • Travel in April-May or September-October for lower flight and hotel prices in many regions
    • Use public transport in major cities and rent cars only for national-park or rural segments
    • Choose vacation rentals or extended-stay hotels with kitchens for longer trips
    • Use city passes and national-park passes only when they match your actual itinerary
    • Budget extra for tax and tip on restaurant and service spending
    Budget tips
    • Book big-city accommodation early, use public transport where it actually works, combine city time with cheaper small-town or national-park stops, and cook some meals if your stay has a kitchen.
    Worth the splurge
    • Stay at an iconic luxury hotel, national park lodge, or five-star city property depending on your route
    • Book private food, wine, or outdoor excursions tailored to the region you are visiting
    • Reserve premium seats for major sports, music, or cultural events to make the trip special
    • Mix signature American experiences like scenic rail, helicopter tours, or chef-led dining for a memorable splurge
    Budget stays
    • Dorm rooms from $50/night. Best value in major cities for solo travelers and backpackers.
    • Basic accommodations from $52/night. Median budget hotel price $139 with high season at $319.
    • Campsites, cabins, and chalets near parks. Great Smoky Mountains from $111/night, Grand Canyon from $128/night.
    Luxury options
    • Premium accommodations average $381/night (median $361). High season rates up to $710/night in major cities.
    • Full-service luxury resorts with comprehensive amenities and dining packages.
    • Upscale outdoor stays and high desert motels opening in 2025 near national parks.
    Free things to do
    • Walk the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco
    • Explore Central Park and free museums in NYC
    • Hike in national parks (entrance fee required but activities free)
    • Visit the Smithsonian museums in Washington DC
    FAQ

    Frequently asked questions

    How much should I budget for tipping in the U.S.?

    Tipping is essential, not optional. Budget 20-25% for restaurants, 20% for taxis/rideshares, $1/drink at bars, $2-5/day for hotel housekeeping, and $1-2/bag for hotel porters. This can add 25-30% to your dining budget.

    Do I need a car to travel in the United States?

    It depends on your destinations. Cars are essential for national parks and rural areas but can be expensive liabilities in dense cities like NYC or DC. Use a hybrid approach: public transit in cities, rent cars only when needed.

    When is the cheapest time to visit the U.S.?

    Shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) offer the best value with 32% average flight savings, pleasant weather, and fewer crowds. Winter (January-February) has lowest prices but weather limitations in northern states.

    How much does food cost per day in America?

    Budget travelers can eat well for $35-50/day using fast food, diners, and groceries. Mid-range travelers should budget $55-75/day for casual restaurants. Luxury dining starts at $120+/day for fine dining experiences.

    Are vacation rentals cheaper than hotels in the U.S.?

    It varies by city. Airbnb averages $52 cheaper nationally but can be more expensive in cities like Tucson or Jackson. The real value is kitchen access – families can save hundreds by preparing some meals instead of dining out for every meal.

    Planning the trip? Read the full United States guide.

    Updated Data: Editorial research · Published daily-cost surveys