11 States Where $100 Has the Most Buying Power in 2026
A hundred bucks doesn't go as far as it used to, but it can stretch further in some states than others. In states with lower-priced housing, groceries, healthcare and everyday expenses, $100 can be worth more than in the U.S. as a whole.
A recent analysis from Calculator Academy used regional price parity data to calculate the real purchasing power of $100 in 48 states — and in these 11, residents get the most value for their money in 2026.
1. Arkansas
Real value of $100: $115.10
Median household income: $52,528
Average annual cost of living: $41,615
2. Mississippi
Real value of $100: $114.90
Median household income: $48,716
Average annual cost of living: $43,025
3. Iowa
Real value of $100: $113.90
Median household income: $65,600
Average annual cost of living: $44,272
3. Oklahoma (tie)
Real value of $100: $113.90
Median household income: $55,826
Average annual cost of living: $43,120
5. Louisiana
Real value of $100: $113.40
Median household income: $52,087
Average annual cost of living: $42,380
6. South Dakota
Real value of $100: $112.90
Median household income: $66,143
Average annual cost of living: $42,705
7. Alabama
Real value of $100: $112.60
Median household income: $53,913
Average annual cost of living: $43,814
8. North Dakota
Real value of $100: $112.40
Median household income: $66,519
Average annual cost of living: $42,873
9. West Virginia
Real value of $100: $111.70
Median household income: $51,248
Average annual cost of living: $40,629
10. Kansas
Real value of $100: $111
Median household income: $64,124
Average annual cost of living: $44,995
10. Nebraska (tie)
Real value of $100: $111
Median household income: $66,817
Average annual cost of living: $45,242
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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