Dog Ownership Costs Across the U.S.
How much does owning a dog really cost? It depends on where you live!
Most Expensive States:
- Washington: Lifetime cost—$97,752, with annual expenses over $8,900.
- California: $94,792 for a lifetime, driven by high vet bills and insurance.
- Massachusetts & New York: Over $33,000 each, thanks to steep living costs.
- New Jersey: $32,947—vets and insurance are pricey here!
Least Expensive States:
- Oklahoma: Most affordable at $24,855.
- Mississippi: $25,104, benefiting from low living costs.
- Indiana, Nebraska, Louisiana: All under $26,000 for a dog's lifetime.
Key Insights:
The average lifetime cost of owning a dog exceeds $30,000 in many states, with California topping the list. Pet insurance is notably higher in states like California ($736 annually) compared to more affordable states like Wyoming ($408 annually) . The differences in costs are largely attributed to local economic conditions and the availability of pet services.
Plan ahead and budget for your pup’s lifelong care. Where does your state rank?
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