Most Expensive States to Buy Land
- Craig Kaiser
- 3 days ago
- 5 min read
Buying land is a significant investment, but the costs can vary drastically depending on the location. Some states are known for their high land prices, driven by factors like demand, geography, and economic development. If you're curious about where land will cost you the most or you're considering purchasing land in one of these prime locations, keep reading to discover the states where land comes with the highest price tag.
Most Expensive States to Buy Land
The Northeast boasts the highest land prices in the country and some of the most expensive states to buy land. Although land values by state are dependent on several factors like location and the type of land, the top 5 most expensive states to buy land in the U.S. in 2025 are Hawaii, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Delaware, and Massachusetts.
1) Hawaii
Hawaii consistently ranks as the most expensive state to buy land, and it’s no surprise given its limited availability and high demand. With its breathtaking scenery, pristine beaches, and desirable tropical climate, land in Hawaii attracts investors, developers, and homeowners from around the world. The unique geography of the islands, combined with strict zoning and land use regulations, significantly limits the amount of usable land, driving prices even higher. Additionally, the cost of importing construction materials further adds to the overall expense of owning land in this paradise.
2) Rhode Island
Despite being the smallest state in the United States, Rhode Island boasts some of the highest property values in the country. The overall average price per acre for land in Rhode Island in 2024 was $350,400. Its appeal lies in its charming coastal towns, historic landmarks, and convenient access to major metropolitan areas like Boston and New York City. The state's limited size inherently restricts the availability of land, contributing to elevated prices. Additionally, Rhode Island's thriving tourism industry and affluent neighborhoods, particularly along the scenic coastline, drive demand for real estate even higher. These factors combine to make land in the Ocean State a valuable and sought-after investment.
3) Massachusetts
The third most expensive state to buy land in the U.S. is Massachusetts. The overall average price per acre for land in Massachusetts in 2024 was $335,200. One of the main factors driving land prices in Massachusetts is its proximity to major cities like Boston and Cambridge. The state's strong economy and high demand for housing, particularly in urban areas, contribute to the competitive real estate market. In addition, strict zoning laws limit the amount of available land for development, further driving up prices for existing parcels. Massachusetts also has a diverse landscape with coastal areas, mountains, forests, and farmland all contributing to the overall value of land. The state's historical significance and cultural attractions also make it a popular destination for tourists and potential home buyers alike.
4) New Jersey
New Jersey is renowned for its high land prices, which are driven by a combination of factors. The state's proximity to major metropolitan areas like New York City and Philadelphia makes it an attractive location for both residential and commercial development. Additionally, New Jersey is one of the most densely populated states in the country, which places significant demand on limited land resources. Strict zoning regulations and a lack of undeveloped land further contribute to the rising costs. New Jersey's strong economy, excellent school systems, and access to top-tier infrastructure also play a role in maintaining high property values, making it a sought-after destination despite the expensive price tag.
5) Connecticut
The fifth most expensive state to buy land in the U.S. in 2025 is Connecticut. Connecticut is known for its scenic landscapes, affluent communities, and proximity to major cities like New York and Boston, which drive up land prices. The southwestern corner, along the Long Island Sound coastline, features some of the state’s most expensive real estate. In Fairfield County, towns like Greenwich and Stamford are famous for their high property values, with both homes and land commanding premium prices. Limited undeveloped land and strict zoning laws increase demand in desirable areas. Connecticut’s high property taxes also impact costs. The state's strong schools, historic charm, and robust economy attract buyers, keeping property values high. However, these factors make it difficult for first-time buyers and middle-income families to enter the market.
Which City Has the Most Expensive Land?
San Francisco is the city with the highest land prices in the United States, with an astounding average of $10 million per acre. Other Californian cities, including San Jose and Los Angeles, also rank among the most expensive markets for land, reflecting the region’s high demand and limited supply.
Cheapest States to Buy Land in the U.S.
While some states are known for their high property values and sky-high land prices, others offer a more affordable entry into the market. For those seeking to purchase land without breaking the bank, exploring states with lower costs and fewer restrictions can open new opportunities. The cheapest land in the United States is located in New Mexico, Arizona, Michigan, Colorado, and Texas.
New Mexico: New Mexico's geography includes mountains, valleys, grasslands, and large desert areas, which are very affordable due to its remote location. In places like Luna County, land is available for under $200 per acre.
Arizona: Arizona offers affordable land options, particularly in its arid desert regions. In Apache and Cochise Counties, land for sale can be found for $200 to $1,000 per acre.
Michigan: Michigan offers affordable land thanks to its unique geography and abundance of natural resources, particularly in the Upper Peninsula, where land can be found for $500+ per acre.
Colorado: In Colorado, the cheapest land is often in the Southern region, where remote, less populated areas are more affordable. Costilla County in the San Luis Valley offers low-cost desert and mountain land, while parts of Saguache County have land starting at $4,000 per acre.
Texas: The western part of Texas, bordering New Mexico and Mexico, is mostly desert and offers lower land prices than other parts of the state. In areas like Sierra Blanca in Hudspeth County, land can cost as little as $700 per acre.
How to Find Land for Sale in the U.S.
If you're looking for exclusive land for sale in the U.S., LandApp's marketplace is the perfect platform to begin your search. LandApp offers a wide selection of listings for various types of land, including residential plots, agricultural acreage, investment properties, and more. With easy-to-use search filters, you can narrow down options based on location, price, and land size to find a property that fits your specific needs. Whether you're dreaming of starting a farm, building your home, or expanding your investment portfolio, LandApp provides everything you need to get started.
