Location, location, location: the three words at the centre of every house-hunter’s mind. But it isn’t all about convenience or proximity to the best schools. Location includes what you see when you look out the window or unwind on the front porch.
And as American Home Shield recently discovered, people are willing to pay a hefty premium for the best city and country views.
Using data and proper descriptions from Zillow.com, American Home Shield Researchers created several maps detailing the cost of a beautiful scenic view in every US state and city.
Here’s a quick look at what they found out.
The average cost of a city view in every US State
The exclusive Beverly Hills neighbourhood in California offers epic views of the Los Angeles city skyline. But if you want a view to call your own, you’ll have to pay over $1million for it. The average cost of a city view mansion in California is an eye-watering $1,624,585, with the priciest properties located up in the Hills.
Utah, Arizona, Massachusetts, and New York are four more states where a home with a city view costs more than a million bucks.
Things are a little more affordable for ordinary buyers in Michigan. A property with an urban vista in Michigan costs just under $100K ($97,384, to be exact.)
How much for a home with a natural view?
“Lose yourself in nature and find peace,” said essayist and philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson. “For those who contemplate the beauty of the earth will discover a spiritual connection to it that can last a lifetime.”
When it comes to the restorative powers of nature, the scientists agree with the philosophers. Multiple studies have shown that spending time in nature reduces stress and other negative emotions.
But sought-after properties with stunning idyllic views don’t come cheap in the US, no matter which state you call home.
Indiana has the lowest-priced homes in the USA with a natural view. Still, they cost over $280k each.
The most expensive US homes in a rustic setting are in the states with the greatest natural wonders. Homes with a view in Montana are priced at over $1million. Montana is home to The Rocky Mountains, Glacier National Park, Flathead Lake, and The Great Plains.
Homes in Hawaii come in at just under the $1million mark ($975,802.) Some people might say that price is a bargain. Waimea Canyon, Diamond Head Volcano tuft, and Haleakala mountain, which translates as ‘House of the Sun, are just a small selection of the natural wonders Haiwans can enjoy by peeking out of their living room windows
Waterfront properties
Properties with a waterfront view are the most expensive types of homes in the USA, according to the research from American Home Shield.
A lakeside property in Wyoming costs a staggering $2,733,918. Wyoming boasts some of the most beautiful lake and water views in North America, including Jackson Lake, Yellowstone Lake, and Flaming Gorge Reservoir.
California makes another appearance in a ‘most expensive list.’ Waterfront properties in ‘The Golden State‘ are valued at $2,359,912.
The mega-mansions along the Hamptons seafront in Long Island push up the average price of New York State waterfront property to $1,016,093.
Find the full breakdown of all the US property prices with a view in the maps.