The Most Expensive Weekend Getaway in the US – and It Isn’t New York
Scott and Yanling analyzed the 50 most populated cities in the U.S. to determine the average weekend getaway cost for two people. They collected data – the combined cost for hotels, public transport, taxi rides, theatre tickets, cinema tickets, alcoholic beverages, and lunch and dinner menus – revealing the most expensive weekend getaways in the country.
Although the data was compiled by a straight couple’s travel website, we’re not sure their data is in line with how LGBTQ+ travelers spend their weekend getaways, especially with some of us splurging a little more because we have more disposable income. But we were still curious to see how some of our favorite LGBTQ+-friendly cities ranked based on their research. Check out the ranking below!
Top 10 Most Expensive Weekend Getaways
| Ranking | City | Cost |
| 1 | Boston, Massachusetts | $1,401 |
| 2 | New York City, New York | $1,291 |
| 3 | San Diego, California | $1,231 |
| 4 | San Francisco, California | $1,206 |
| 5 | Seattle, Washington | $1,153 |
| 6 | Denver, Colorado | $1,106 |
| 7 | Long Beach, California | $1,099 |
| 8 | Washington, District of Columbia | $1,096 |
| 9 | Los Angeles, California | $1,070 |
| 10 | Chicago, Illinois | $1,070 |
Boston takes the top spot as the priciest weekend escape in the United States, setting an average couple back more than $1,400. With visitors expected to fork out up to $345 per night, the city becomes a top contender for the most lavish getaway experience.
New York City, known for its excessive living costs, comes in second place, with an average weekend getaway costing around $1,291. This exciting twist of events reveals that Boston’s ascent to the top spot proves that high expenses are no longer unique to the Big Apple.
Following closely behind, the sunny coastal city of San Diego claims the third spot with an estimated total of $1,231. With the average beer costing over $10, San Diego’s charm certainly comes at a considerable cost, reinforcing its reputation as an attractive yet expensive destination.
San Francisco is often considered a bucket-list spot, but at $1206 for a weekend, it can be a pricey escape for travelers seeking the ultimate West Coast experience. Especially, with theater tickets costing up to $185 per person.
The same weekend break will set you back a staggering $1,153 in Seattle, $1,106 in Denver, and $1,099 in Long Beach – with accommodation costs bringing up the total price.
The nation’s capital, Washington D.C., secures the eighth spot with an average weekend getaway setting visitors back $1,096. With a mid-range meal costing over $100 per couple, the city offers a taste of its historic splendor at a cost.
The glamorous and star-studded Los Angeles also shares a final place with Chicago, with each city boasting an average weekend cost of $1,070.
Scott Sidders, from Scott and Yanling, said: “Weekend getaways can save time and add convenience to your trip. However, to secure the best possible deals and avoid surging prices during peak periods, meticulous planning in advance is key. Embracing flexibility by choosing different weekdays can also work in your favor, which unlocks more affordable accommodation and entertainment options, ultimately providing an enriching experience without breaking the bank.”
So, what do you think, vacationers? Does the cost for a weekend getaway in the cities listed above track or do you usually spend more?
