NEW YORK, NY — Travel prices are rising unevenly across the United States in 2026, with hotel rates, gasoline, airfare, tourism taxes and restaurant inflation all affecting trip budgets. The biggest costs are showing up in states with high fuel prices, heavy visitor demand and expensive lodging.
Some destinations are now far pricier than others, while a handful of states remain relatively affordable for road trips, cabins and outdoor travel.
California leads the high-cost list with fuel averaging $6.15 per gallon
California stands out as one of the most expensive states for travelers, driven by the nation’s highest average fuel cost in May 2026 at $6.15 per gallon, according to LendingTree. Costs at coastal markets, theme parks and restaurants are also elevated.
Travelers looking to manage expenses are advised to visit during the off-season or consider less crowded destinations such as Cambria or Pismo Beach, as well as inland stops including Malibu, San Diego and Napa.
Hawaii, Washington and Oregon also face steep visitor expenses
Hawaii remains costly because airfare, car rentals, lodging and meals all add up quickly. The average gasoline price there is $5.64 per gallon in 2026, and travelers can reduce food costs by booking a house with a kitchenette or by choosing less developed islands.
Washington saw the second-highest gasoline price in May 2026 at about $5.77 per gallon. Oregon is also expensive, with gas averaging $5.33 per gallon and lodging surging in Portland, Bend and along the coast during summer months.
South Carolina tops tourist spending while Colorado sees peak-season spikes
A tourism cost analysis cited by Travel Market Report ranked South Carolina as the most expensive state for tourists, with average daily spending of $450 per person. Charleston, Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach become especially costly during peak season because of beach access, parking, restaurants and accommodations.
Colorado’s mountain towns also get pricey when ski season, summer hiking and festivals drive demand. Aspen, Vail and Breckenridge often see higher costs for hotels, parking, food and recreation, while places such as Salida, Leadville and Grand Junction are usually less expensive.
West Virginia, Arkansas and Missouri offer some of the lowest travel costs
West Virginia was ranked the most affordable state for travelers in a 2026 analysis, helped by lower-cost cabin stays and inexpensive car travel around places like New River Gorge. Arkansas also offers relatively cheap motels and cabins, especially for road trippers visiting lakes, springs and state parks.
Ohio, Missouri, New Mexico and Michigan were also highlighted as budget-friendlier choices. In those states, travelers can still find lakes, beaches, desert scenery and outdoor attractions without the same lodging and fuel costs seen in the priciest destinations.
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