The Most & Least Expensive Cities to Own a Dog in the U.S.
Andrea Powell
Photo: Pexels/Josh Hild
Rover, the world's largest network of experienced pet sitters and dog walkers, analyzed their data for 2024 to discover the most and least expensive cities to own a dog in the United States.
As dog owners, we all know that the price of dog food, treats, and vet visits have increased this year. Rover shared that the cost to own a dog in 2024 ranges between $1,000 and $5,225 a year.
A lot of this depends on the brand of pet food you feed (some brands increased the price by 80% from last year), dog sitting, grooming, supplements and treats, vet visits, and where you live.

While coupons and online deals are helpful in saving some money, sometimes it comes down to location.
Rover looked at the top 100 cities where their services are provided along with pet grooming and training services in Gingr's network over the year to figure out the most and least expensive cities to own a dog.
10 Most Expensive Cities to Own a Dog
- Santa Monica, CA
- San Francisco, CA
- Oakland, CA
- Bellevue, WA
- San Jose, CA
- Seattle, WA
- Pasadena, CA
- New York, NY
- Los Angeles, CA
- Kirkland, WA

10 Least Expensive Cities to Own a Dog
- El Paso, TX
- Lexington, KY
- Oklahoma City, OK
- Virginia Beach, VA
- Dayton, OH
- Columbia, SC
- Knoxville, TN
- Kansas City, MO
- Greenville, SC
- San Antonio, TX

Learn more about the cost to own a dog in 2024 and see the full list of cities provided by Rover here.
Animal Shelter Impact

The rising cost of pet food and supplies is also putting more stress on animal shelters. Intakes have increased while adoptions have decreased. Dogs and cats arrive daily at overcrowded shelters. They need our help now more than ever.
Join us in feeding hungry shelter dogs and cats by donating to our Holiday Pet Food Drive.

Andrea Powell is an animal enthusiast who resides in West Michigan. When not writing, she is exploring the great outdoors with her dogs and horses.