The Most Expensive Summer Destinations in the Midwest

Updated: July 9, 2024

Ann Arbor is the priciest summer destination in the Midwestern region of the United States for hotel stays this summer, according to a survey conducted by Cheaphotels.org.

The survey compared the cost of accommodation across the 12 Midwestern states during July and August 2024. For each destination, the average price for the cheapest available double room was established, with only well-located hotels or inns rated at least 3 stars being considered.

With an average rate of $287 per night for the least expensive room, the bustling university town of Ann Arbor in Michigan leads the rankings. The podium is completed by Saint Joseph and South Haven, both located off the shores of Lake Michigan, with average rates of $274 and $256, respectively.

Duluth in Minnesota is the priciest destination outside of Michigan, ranking 4th most expensive with an average rate of $234 per night. In Ohio, travelers will have to pay the most for accommodation in the town of Put-in-Bay, situated off the shores of Lake Erie on South Bass Island.

Compared with 2019, when the survey was last conducted, hotel rates in the 10 priciest destinations are up by more than 20%, on average. The biggest increases were recorded in Duluth (+73%), Ann Arbor (+56%) and Chicago. (+52%)

The following table shows the 20 most expensive destinations for accommodation in the Midwest this summer. Prices shown reflect the average rate for each destination's cheapest available double room for the period July 1 to August 31, 2024.