In today’s real estate market, paying more doesn’t always mean living better. While we often equate high living costs with premium experiences like safe neighborhoods, clean environments, and smooth commutes that’s not always the case. A new study from Highland Cabinetry, as reported by Nasdaq, shines a light on the U.S. cities where the cost of living is high, but the comfort level is low.
This unique ranking goes beyond typical affordability metrics. It takes into account:
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Rent and overall cost of living
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Apartment price per square foot
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Traffic congestion
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Pollution levels
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Safety concerns
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Unemployment rates
These cities serve as cautionary tales for renters and homebuyers alike reminding us that value is more than just dollars and cents.
Top 10 Overpriced Cities with Low Comfort Rankings
1. Newark, New Jersey
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Combined rent and cost of living: $5,110/month
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The problem: Despite its proximity to NYC, Newark ranks low in comfort. It struggles with poor safety, traffic, pollution, and an unemployment rate that drags down its livability score.
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The takeaway: You’re paying big-city prices without the big-city perks.
2. New York, New York
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Combined rent and cost of living: $5,761/month
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Price per sq. ft. for an apartment: $18,401
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The problem: NYC remains one of the most iconic cities in the world, but it suffers from high rent, extreme density, noise, and stress levels.
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The takeaway: Glamour comes at a cost and not just financially.
3. Los Angeles, California
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Combined rent and cost of living: $3,752/month
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Traffic index: 313
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Pollution index: 68
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The problem: LA’s traffic and air quality are infamous. While the weather and culture are major draws, the city’s infrastructure and environmental stressors reduce quality of life.
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The takeaway: Sunshine doesn’t erase smog or gridlock.
4. Detroit, Michigan
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Combined rent and cost of living: $2,511/month
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The problem: Detroit may be more affordable than others on this list, but its low safety and pollution scores make it feel far less livable.
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The takeaway: Affordability alone doesn’t guarantee comfort.
5. Wilmington, Delaware
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Combined rent and cost of living: $4,120/month
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The problem: Wilmington doesn’t get as much media attention, but high housing costs and underwhelming livability factors like safety and congestion make it an unexpectedly tough place to live.
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The takeaway: Small city, big issues.
6. Washington, D.C.
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Combined rent and cost of living: $6,785/month
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Traffic index: 192
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The problem: Our nation’s capital has an impressive price tag but struggles with long commutes, security concerns in some neighborhoods, and expensive real estate.
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The takeaway: Political power doesn’t protect against urban problems.
7. Chicago, Illinois
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Combined rent and cost of living: $3,704/month
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The problem: While it boasts rich history and culture, Chicago faces challenges with crime and pollution, which offset its urban appeal.
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The takeaway: High-rise views don’t always come with peace of mind.
8. Houston, Texas
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Combined rent and cost of living: $2,734/month
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The problem: Houston’s safety scores and environmental concerns especially air quality make it less desirable despite its growing economy.
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The takeaway: Bigger isn’t always better in the Lone Star State.
9. San Francisco, California
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Combined rent and cost of living: $4,193/month
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Apartment price per sq. ft.: $11,046
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The problem: Once the poster child for tech-fueled growth, San Francisco now grapples with housing shortages, homelessness, and high pollution levels.
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The takeaway: Innovation doesn’t shield a city from affordability and comfort crises.
10. Miami, Florida
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Combined rent and cost of living: $4,163/month
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The problem: Although it has relatively low pollution levels, Miami’s traffic congestion, rising cost of living, and limited housing availability make it tough to live comfortably.
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The takeaway: Paradise has a price and sometimes it’s too steep.
What This Means for Renters & Buyers
This report highlights the importance of looking beyond the price tag when evaluating where to live. While affordability is crucial, it should always be weighed alongside quality-of-life metrics such as:
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Commute times
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Environmental health
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Crime rates
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Housing availability
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Community resources
Even cities with lower rent may be poor choices if daily life feels unsafe, stressful, or inconvenient.
Final Thoughts: Rethinking Value in City Living
Choosing where to live is one of the most personal and financially significant decisions people make. This study reminds us that “expensive” doesn’t always equal “better.” Before committing to a lease or mortgage in a high-cost city, dig deeper. What are you really getting in return for your money?
High rent paired with low comfort isn’t just disappointing it’s unsustainable.
Source
Article: The 10 Most Expensive Cities to Live Where Price Doesn’t Mean Comfort