A recent survey has shaken the travel community by revealing that Boston has officially become the most expensive city in the world for hotel stays, surpassing renowned destinations like Paris, Rome, and even New York City. Conducted by cheaphotels.org, this survey evaluated 100 cities worldwide based on the average cost of the cheapest available double room, focusing on centrally located hotels with a three-star rating or higher. The average rates reflect data from October 2025, a peak month for the hospitality industry in Boston.
Bostonians and travelers alike might be surprised to learn that the average price for an overnight hotel stay in Beantown comes to about $375. In comparison, New York City holds the second position on the list with an average rate of $338 per night, a significant gap that underscores Boston’s rising cost of accommodation.
Interestingly, the top five most expensive cities also feature three European powerhouses: Zurich, Milan, and Paris, which boast average nightly rates between $250 and $275. This global perspective highlights not just the allure of Boston, but also the fierce competition among major cities, particularly in Europe.
Joshua Bowman, a hospitality expert from Boston University’s School of Hospitality Administration, provides some insight into why hotel prices reach such elevated heights in October. He cites several factors contributing to this trend, including the influx of parents visiting local universities during parent weekends, vibrant fall foliage attracting “leaf peeping” tourists, and high-profile events such as the Head of the Charles Regatta. Together, these elements create a perfect storm for hotel demand and subsequent price hikes.
Bowman notes, “I think the rates would be very different, and Boston’s ranking would look significantly different in the doldrums of February.” Clearly, October isn’t just any month; it’s a time when Boston’s charm shines, making it a hotspot for visitors willing to pay a premium for a taste of the local culture, events, and seasonal beauty.
The survey indicates that while October might be the most expensive month across many cities, Boston’s hotel rates consistently rank among the highest year-round. “If you were to look at all the months, you’re going to see Boston, in terms of rate, being in the top five in the country,” Bowman points out, emphasizing a broader trend where Boston’s hotel prices have escalated in recent years.
A significant factor in this rising cost is the emergence of multiple new luxury hotels. Bowman explains that while the overall market might be struggling, growth is concentrated in the high-end sector. “The top 10% of earners in the country are still traveling like crazy,” he mentions, indicating that wealthier patrons are driving demand for upscale accommodations, thereby pulling average daily rates up.
For those with budget constraints, Bowman suggests visiting Boston during the winter months of December, January, and February when hotels typically offer discounts and various incentives to attract travelers. “They make it really cool for you to be there at a time of year when most people are going to Florida or someplace warmer,” he mentions. Plus, visitors may even receive perks or upgrades that enhance their stay during these quieter months.
If you’re interested in delving deeper into the data behind these findings, the full survey and a comprehensive list of the top 100 cities can be found on cheaphotels.org. For an engaging conversation with Josh Bowman regarding Boston’s hotel costs, check out the audio player at the top of the story.