Connecticut Rated One of the Least Affordable States in the Nation

According to GoBankingRates, Americans looking to move somewhere more affordable in 2026 may want to steer clear of the Northeast — and that includes Connecticut.

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A new affordability study shows Connecticut landing near the bottom of the rankings, right alongside other high-cost coastal states. That won’t surprise anyone who’s paid rent, tried to buy a home, or opened a winter heating bill lately. While Connecticut offers a great quality of life, it’s clearly not a budget-friendly place to relocate if stretching your dollar is the main goal.

The study looked at everyday costs that actually hit your wallet, including housing, utilities, transportation fees, and even what movers charge. When all of that is factored in, states in the South and Midwest dominate the affordable end of the list. These are places where rent stays reasonable, homeownership still feels attainable, and the smaller fees don’t quietly pile up.

Connecticut, on the other hand, falls into the familiar category of “great place to live, expensive place to afford.” For many residents, the schools, location, and lifestyle make the higher costs worth it — but the numbers help explain why so many people are at least thinking about moving elsewhere.

Top 5 Most Affordable States to Move To

Arkansas
Mississippi
Nebraska
Iowa
Oklahoma

Top 10 Least Affordable States to Move To

Washington
New York
California
Massachusetts
Hawaii
New Jersey
Connecticut
Alaska
Maryland
Oregon

Affordable? Not exactly. But for better or worse, Connecticut still has plenty of people willing to pay the price. I'm going to end up on the street dancing for nickels.