How urban and rural household budgets differ across 21 categories, from rent (20x) and education (3.1x) to sugar and salt, where they are almost equal.
cost of living
Americans Spend 22% More Than in 2021, but Buy Only About 3% More
Average US household spending rose from $66,928 in 2021 to $81,905 in 2025, up 22.4%. Prices rose 18.7%, so households bought only about 3% more.