Find Your Perfect Stay
Booking a stay in the U.S. can be an adventure all on its own. Some cities feel like they’re daring you to pay more, while others roll out comfort without demanding your savings. That’s what makes traveling interesting. In this list, we’ll cover ten of the most expensive cities for accommodations and ten that are refreshingly affordable. Let’s check out the pricey ones first.
1. New York City, New York
The city’s skyline isn’t the only thing towering over the rest of the country. In Manhattan, space is at a premium, and so are hotel beds. Even modest accommodations often edge past $250 a night, with Airbnbs matching or exceeding those rates.
2. San Francisco, California
Between high taxes and constant tourist traffic, hotel rooms here rarely feel like a bargain. It’s common to see costs around $250 nightly off-season and much more during big conferences. Staying near downtown often means crossing the $300 mark without much effort.
3. Honolulu, Hawaii
With warm weather year-round and sandy beaches never far away, Honolulu doesn’t see much of an off-season. Average rooms top $280, and resort fees or parking can add plenty more. Many smaller properties near the shore tend to hold steady at premium prices.
4. Boston, Massachusetts
Historic charm comes with a price tag in Boston. Limited hotel capacity and seasonal spikes from college events push nightly costs into the $250–$350 range. Popular neighborhoods like Back Bay or the North End see travelers paying top dollar to be in the heart of it all.
5. Miami Beach, Florida
Ocean views and Art Deco architecture keep travelers coming back—and paying for it. South Beach stays can sail past $400, especially during winter when the crowds swell. High turnover means midweek bookings also cost far more than travelers expect.
6. Los Angeles, California
From Beverly Hills hotels to Santa Monica resorts, rates here can climb sky-high. Some luxury properties run over $600 a night, and Airbnb listings in prime areas can rival that. Parking fees and extra charges often make stays more expensive than planned.
7. Aspen, Colorado
Luxury and exclusivity dominate Aspen’s lodging scene. Ski season easily pushes rooms beyond $500, while summer festivals keep prices from dropping much. With limited availability, visitors typically book well ahead to secure a spot among the upscale lodges and mountain retreats.
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8. Chicago, Illinois
When events fill the calendar, downtown hotels waste no time raising rates. Summer nights along Navy Pier or near the Magnificent Mile cost well above $250. Add in local taxes, and a quick weekend getaway can become a pricier affair.
9. Washington, D.C.
In the capital, timing makes all the difference. Political seasons and major conventions send rates climbing into the $270–$350 range. The proximity of museums and business hubs keeps central hotels at high occupancy, making discounts relatively rare.
Washington Photo Safari on Wikimedia
10. Seattle, Washington
Waterfront views and proximity to tech headquarters come with a premium. Downtown rooms often hover near $300, and summer’s cruise season pushes them higher still. Vacation rentals rarely undercut hotels, keeping the market consistently expensive year after year.
After checking out the high-end stays, let’s turn our attention to places where you can rest easy without spending a fortune.
1. Tulsa, Oklahoma
Travelers find Tulsa surprisingly kind to the wallet, with many stays coming in under $100. Its boutique hotels usually cost less than national chains in other cities, and the city’s low lodging taxes help keep those prices steady. Free parking only sweetens the deal.
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2. Albuquerque, New Mexico
In Albuquerque, $80–$100 can secure a comfortable room close to historic districts and art hubs. With tourism staying relatively steady, prices don’t spike often. For the thriftiest visitors, there are Airbnb rentals dipping under $70 a night.
3. Little Rock, Arkansas
Riverfront rooms in Little Rock can be booked for just $80–$90, with upscale properties rarely exceeding $140. Guests enjoy southern charm alongside practical perks like free breakfast or parking, creating a strong value for budget-conscious travelers.
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4. Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City keeps overnight costs reasonable, with rates commonly below $120. Even weekend visitors won’t see much of a price jump, making it easy to plan a spontaneous trip. Clean, safe motels in prime spots offer plenty of value for the money.
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5. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Rates less than $100 are the norm in Oklahoma City, despite being in the heart of downtown. Many budget-friendly hotels offer free extras, and the city’s low lodging tax adds to the savings. Parking costs are rarely tacked on here.
6. Memphis, Tennessee
Downtown Memphis hotels average around $110 and keep visitors close to Beale Street and other famous sites. Airbnb options at $85 are common, especially mid-week. In short, travelers can enjoy the city’s music and culture without stretching their budget.
7. Louisville, Kentucky
Plenty of Airbnbs and hotels in Louisville come in under $120, which makes it a strong pick for families or event-goers. Even during big festivals, prices stay reasonable. Affordable, family-friendly properties are spread across the city.
8. San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio’s Riverwalk can be enjoyed without overspending, as many stays here dip below $130. The city’s mix of free attractions, like San Antonio Missions National Historical Park and charming historic hotels, means visitors can splurge on food or activities instead.
9. Indianapolis, Indiana
Business travelers and vacationers benefit from Indianapolis' steady pricing. Weekend rates hover around $100, and many hotels throw in breakfast and Wi-Fi. Numerous budget-friendly stays in walkable areas make it an easy city to explore without a car.
10. Boise, Idaho
Year-round affordability makes Boise appealing, with rooms staying under $115 in peak seasons, too. Its small-city atmosphere and scenic surroundings don’t come with inflated tourist costs. Prices stay consistent whether you’re visiting in summer or during snowy winters.
