Average Monthly Household Expenses
The average U.S. household spends about $6,545 a month — the 2024 annual total of $78,535 divided across 12 months (BLS). Housing alone is about $2,189 a month.
Average monthly household expenses are about $6,545 (BLS, 2024). Housing (~$2,189), transportation (~$1,110) and food (~$847) lead the budget.
- Total per month~$6,545
- Housing~$2,189
- Transportation~$1,110
- Food~$847
- Groceries~$519
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Consumer Expenditure Survey, 2024
How the monthly figure is derived
The BLS reports spending annually per consumer unit. NumberBench divides each annual category by 12 to show a monthly view. These are averages (means), so a typical household — especially outside high-cost metros — often spends less. Monthly figures smooth out lumpy costs (insurance, holidays) that do not actually recur every month.
Average monthly expenses by category (2024)
| Category | Per month |
|---|---|
| Housing | $2,189 |
| Transportation | $1,110 |
| Food | $847 |
| — Groceries | $519 |
| — Dining out | $329 |
| All other | $2,399 |
| Total | $6,545 |
NumberBench monthly calculation from BLS Consumer Expenditure Survey 2024 annual averages (annual ÷ 12).
Frequently asked questions
What are average monthly household expenses?
About $6,545 a month in 2024, based on the BLS annual total of $78,535 divided by 12.
How much is the average monthly housing cost?
About $2,189 a month, covering rent or mortgage, utilities, furnishings and maintenance.
Why might my expenses be lower than this?
The figure is a mean pulled up by high-income and high-cost-metro households. Renters, smaller households and lower-cost areas typically spend less.
Do these numbers include savings and taxes?
No. They reflect spending on goods and services only; taxes and retirement contributions are separate.
Sources & methodology
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Consumer Expenditure Survey, 2024.
Monthly values are NumberBench calculations from BLS Consumer Expenditure Survey 2024 annual averages (annual ÷ 12).
Last checked July 2026 · Refreshed annually with the BLS Consumer Expenditure Survey.