A recent study by DIPNDIVE analyzed 50 US states to determine the ones that have the best hotels in the area.
The states were ranked based on three main factors: the overall quality of hotels in a state, the luxury hotel concentration, and the average nightly costs of hotels. Each score was rescaled to a 1-100 range for consistency to create a composite score, highlighting the states that offer the best hotel choices.
| States | Composite Score | Rank |
| New Jersey | 99.20 | 1 |
| Virginia | 98.09 | 2 |
| Pennsylvania | 95.84 | 3 |
| Colorado | 93.89 | 4 |
| Illinois | 89.24 | 5 |
| Washington | 77.61 | 6 |
| Missouri | 71.06 | 7 |
| Wisconsin | 71.06 | 8 |
| Ohio | 70.37 | 9 |
| South Carolina | 69.30 | 10 |
*See the full research here.
New Jersey ranks first with the best hotels, scoring 99. The state leads with 70 five-star hotels- the highest number in the study, combining luxury accommodations with competitive pricing. Five-star luxury hotels start with an average price of $288 per night, while budget-friendly options, such as two-star hotels, are available for approximately $78.
Virginia comes second with the best hotel options, with a composite score of 98. The state’s competitive entry-level pricing of $66 for two-star properties, combined with luxury rates of $336, results in a high affordability score. Across its 43K square miles, Virginia maintains a strong luxury hotel density, supported by a high star rating score due to its wide hotel selections.
Pennsylvania takes third place with a 95 composite score. It strongly focuses on the middle market, with 954 two-star and 917 three-star hotels – the largest number in the study. The state’s affordability is highlighted in its luxury hotels, with average prices of just $172 a night – less than half what some other states charge.
Colorado ranks fourth in the list of US states with the best hotel choices, scoring 93. The state excels in the mid-to-upper hotel market, with 885 three-star and 241 four-star hotels. This strong mid-market concentration pairs with 24 luxury properties, charging only $207 per night, a notably lower price than in Virginia and New Jersey.
Illinois rounds out the top five of US states with best hotels with an 89 score. The state offers two-star rooms starting at $83 and comfortable three-star accommodations for just $106 per night, which is highly cost-effective for visitors. Though its luxury hotel rates are higher than in Colorado and Pennsylvania, the wide selection of mid-range hotels makes it an accessible destination for most travelers.
Washington scores 77, taking sixth place. The state has 767 three-star and 128 three-star hotels while maintaining the luxury segment with 14 five-star properties. Washington has a strong pricing strategy, making it accessible in all market segments. Prices start with competitive rates at $80.85 for two-star hotels and grow through each star rating, comprising the highest luxury rates among the top 10 states.
Missouri ranks seventh with a composite score of 71.06. The state keeps its market accessible with affordable rates of $68.22 for two-star hotels while positioning its luxury segment at $321. Its large network of 878 two-star and 618 three-star hotels provides broad market coverage, while 93 four-star properties add options for those who prefer luxury accommodations.
Wisconsin comes eighth, scoring 71.03. The state provides one of the most budget-friendly rates for 3-5-star hotels per night. Visitors can enjoy a five-star luxury stay for just $171 per night, while comfortable three-star stays average $106. Wisconsin maintains 819 two-star, 653 three-star, and 81 four-star hotels, with a star rating score of 394, reflecting the high quality of hotels in the state.
Ohio takes ninth place with a 70 composite score. The state leads with the lowest two-star rates among all ranked states at $63 while maintaining market strength with 655 three-star hotels priced at $131. Its luxury hotel density and high affordability score create a hotel market that prioritizes accessibility combined with quality standards.
South Carolina rounds out the top 10 states with the best hotel options. Despite its smaller area of 32K square miles, the state achieves a notable luxury hotel density with 17 five-star properties. The state’s two-star hotels charge $68 per night, and luxury accommodations pricing starts at $252.67, making South Carolina a welcoming destination for travelers of all budgets.
A spokesperson from DIPNDIVE commented on the study: “The US hotel industry has really transformed in recent years. What defines the best place to stay is the variety of choices available to travelers – whether it’s a luxury getaway, a comfortable business trip, or a budget-friendly weekend escape. The best hotel markets have succeeded in figuring out how to keep quality at every price point. So you don’t have to empty your wallet to have a great stay. That’s exactly what today’s travelers want – quality options that fit their budget, not just expensive luxury they can’t afford.”
