To find out which destinations are the most expensive, GOBankingRates evaluated rankings from a number of travel websites to determine the most popular tourist locations in the United States.
It then calculated the cost of food and beverages, average nightly rates for the three cheapest hotels in the region, and average airfares. This is the result.
10. Chicago, Illinois: $1,602.38
- Meals: $480
- Drinks (including beer): $69.24
- 3-night hotel stay: $272
- Airfare: 781.14
Consider purchasing a Go Chicago Card to save money when visiting one of America’s best shopping cities. The Field Museum of Natural History, LEGOLAND, SkyDeck Chicago, Navy Pier rides and other attractions offer discounts. Savings and ticket prices vary depending on which options you choose.
9. Palm Springs, California: $1,607.34
- Meals: $435.00
- Drinks (including beer): $56.70
- 3-night hotel stay: $330
- Airfare: $785.64
Palm Springs is not only a popular retirement destination but also a quiet place to spend a fall vacation. Look for free or low-cost activities to cut the cost of your trip. For example, visit the Palm Springs Art Museum and be impressed by the works of artists like Andy Warhol and Pablo Picasso. Or visit the weekly VillageFest, a downtown street festival held every Thursday that features arts, crafts, food and entertainment.
8. Nashville, Tennessee: $1,625.20
- Meals: $460.50
- Drinks (including beer): $56.76
- 3-night hotel stay: $409
- Airfare: $698.94
Nashville can be expensive, even though it’s relatively low on the list. If you are watching your money, try to find free or inexpensive activities to take the pressure off. The honky-tonks on Lower Broadway, which rarely (if ever) charge admission, are a great place to check out Music City’s offerings.
7. Miami Beach, Florida: $1,647.84
- Meals: $622.50
- Drinks (including beer): $62.88
- 3-night hotel stay: $269.00
- Airfare: $693.46
In Miami, a day at the beach can be free, but there are plenty of other free places to find some shade. The oldest club in Miami, Mac’s Club Deuce, is an option for happy hour.
6. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: $1,801.87
- Meals: $525
- Drinks (including beer): $64.56
- 3-night hotel stay: $371.00
- Airfare: $841.22
Visit the city known as “the “birthplace of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness,” which has many historic attractions, such as the Liberty Bell or the National Constitution Center, that are free or inexpensive.
5. Portland, Oregon: $1,803.40
- Meals: $513
- Drinks (including beer): $68.76
- 3-night hotel stay: $343
- Airfare: $878.64
Portland did not earn the nickname “City of Roses” for nothing. Visit the International Rose Test Garden in Washington Park to see some magnificent specimens. Free public tours are offered there every day.
4. San Francisco, California: $1,925.12
- Meals: $600
- Drinks (including beer): $74.40
- 3-night hotel stay: $293
- Airfare: $957.72
San Francisco is a pricey city to visit and live in. The cost of lodging and airfare should not surprise you, but meals should also be considered. At a mid-range restaurant, a meal for two can cost as much as $95.
3. Seattle, Washington: $1,988.58
- Meals: $600
- Drinks (including beer): $77.88
- 3-night hotel stay: $471
- Airfare: $839.70
If you do not know how to travel on a budget, Seattle is one of the most expensive cities on this list. For instance, use the Link light rail instead of Uber and Lyft. The line from Angle Lake to the College of Washington has stops in Chinatown, Pioneer Square, and the airport, among other popular locations.
2. San Diego, California: $2,193.42
- Meals: $570
- Drinks (including beer): $81.12
- 3-night hotel stay: $766
- Airfare: $776.30
San Diego may be a popular summer destination, but if you plan your trip well, you can still find affordable lodging there in the fall. Beaches, biking and hiking trails abound in the SoCal metropolis for outdoor enthusiasts. The U.S. Olympic Training Center in Chula Vista is nearby and a good place to go if you need some athletic motivation. Guided trips are only $5 per participant.
1. Key West, Florida: $2,321.70
- Meals: $735
- Drinks (including beer): $87.24
- 3-night hotel stay: $806
- Airfare: $693.46
Key West has previously been named one of the most expensive destinations for spring break, and it does not fare much better on this list. However, on the tiny island you can spend a fantastic time every day of the year.