In the United States, luxury hospitality stands as a symbol of refinement, exclusivity, and timeless elegance. The most expensive hotels in the US go far beyond lavish interiors, they embody exceptional craftsmanship, personalized service, and an atmosphere of privacy sought by the world’s elite travelers.
From the grandeur of New York’s iconic landmarks to the coastal serenity of California’s world-class resorts, each destination offers an experience designed to surpass expectation.
Every suite, menu, and view tells a story of meticulous detail and dedication to excellence. In our guide, we explore these extraordinary stays and help you understand what truly makes America’s finest hotels worth every dollar.
What Makes America’s Most Expensive Hotels Worth the Price?
America’s most expensive hotels represent the highest standard of luxury hospitality, combining architectural artistry, impeccable service, and exclusive guest experiences.
These properties, such as The Plaza Hotel in New York, The Beverly Hills Hotel in Los Angeles, and The Four Seasons Resort in Maui, justify their high nightly rates through rare amenities, privacy, and cultural prestige.
Each element, from the interior design to the staff-to-guest ratio, contributes to a value proposition rooted in comfort, exclusivity, and legacy appeal. Guests pay not just for accommodation but for access to a lifestyle few can experience.
Key Factors That Define Ultra-Luxury Hospitality
Ultra-luxury hospitality in the United States is defined by tangible and measurable attributes that set elite hotels apart from standard five-star properties. These factors include:
- Prime Location: Most expensive hotels occupy landmark sites such as Central Park in New York, Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, or oceanfront estates in Maui.
- Exclusive Design: Interiors feature custom furnishings, rare art collections, and materials like Italian marble or handcrafted woodwork.
- Limited Room Availability: Many top-tier hotels maintain under 100 rooms to ensure exclusivity and privacy.
- Personalized Guest Experience: Concierge teams curate experiences, private jet transfers, in-suite dining by Michelin-starred chefs, or VIP event access.
- Brand Legacy: Iconic names like Ritz-Carlton, Aman, and St. Regis carry cultural authority and long-standing reputations for excellence.
These elements define the structural and experiential foundation of high-end accommodation, where value is measured in quality, distinction, and memory-making.
How Personalized Service and Amenities Drive Premium Pricing
Personalized service and exclusive amenities are core determinants of why hotels like The Peninsula Beverly Hills or Waldorf Astoria New York command thousands per night.
Each property invests heavily in human-centered luxury, reflected in:
- Staff-to-Guest Ratio: Luxury hotels maintain a ratio as high as 3:1 to ensure immediate, discreet service.
- 24/7 Butler and Concierge Access: Guests receive dedicated assistants for every aspect of their stay, from unpacking luggage to organizing private excursions.
- Bespoke Amenities: Services include chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royces, spa treatments with rare botanicals, and private in-room dining experiences by world-renowned chefs.
These hotels price experience as a service, where personalization itself becomes a form of currency. For ultra-wealthy travelers, such tailored attention transforms comfort into exclusivity.
Architectural Design, Exclusivity, and Experience as Value Indicators
Architectural innovation and exclusivity play vital roles in determining hotel value. Properties such as Amangiri in Utah or The Setai Miami Beach are not just accommodations, they are architectural landmarks.
Key indicators of value include:
| Attribute | Description | Example |
| Architectural Distinction | Custom design blending cultural and natural elements | Amangiri’s desert-integrated structure |
| Limited Access | Restricted guest capacity for privacy | The Ranch Malibu’s small guest quota |
| Experiential Design | Immersive environments that align with natural surroundings | Post Ranch Inn’s ocean-cliff villas |
Hotels in this category convert architecture into identity. Guests don’t simply stay, they inhabit a space curated for sensory and emotional impact. The result is a combination of rarity, tranquility, and aesthetic perfection.
Top 10 Most Expensive Hotels in the United States
The United States is home to some of the world’s most luxurious and expensive hotels, where nightly rates often exceed thousands of dollars.
These elite properties, ranging from historic icons in New York City to beachfront masterpieces in Florida and California. define the highest standards of comfort, exclusivity, and design.
Each hotel on this list offers a unique blend of architectural grandeur, exceptional service, and cultural prestige, creating experiences that attract celebrities, royals, and global travelers seeking unmatched luxury.
1 | The Plaza Hotel, New York City
The Plaza Hotel in New York City stands as one of America’s most iconic and expensive hotels, located on the edge of Central Park. Opened in 1907, The Plaza combines Beaux-Arts architecture, crystal chandeliers, and grand ballrooms that reflect timeless elegance.
Key attributes include:
- Average Nightly Rate: Around $5,000 for the Royal Suite
- Signature Features: 24-hour butler service, in-room dining from The Palm Court, and private views of Central Park
- Cultural Significance: Featured in films like Home Alone 2 and The Great Gatsby, enhancing its legendary status
The Plaza Hotel maintains its prestige by merging historical legacy with contemporary luxury and impeccable service.
2 | The Mark Hotel, New York City
The Mark Hotel on Manhattan’s Upper East Side represents understated sophistication and exclusivity. Designed by Jacques Grange, it offers modern interiors with bold Art Deco influences.
Key highlights:
- Average Nightly Rate: Approximately $12,000 for The Mark Penthouse Suite
- Exclusive Amenities: Personal butler, private rooftop terrace, and 24-hour access to Bergdorf Goodman shopping services
- Guest Profile: Frequented by high-profile guests during events like the Met Gala
The Mark’s penthouse suite, one of the largest in the U.S, defines the hotel’s reputation for privacy, design, and tailored luxury.
3 | The Beverly Hills Hotel, Los Angeles
The Beverly Hills Hotel, also known as “The Pink Palace,” is an emblem of Hollywood glamour. Situated on Sunset Boulevard, this landmark hotel blends tropical garden landscapes with classic 20th-century luxury.
Core features:
- Average Nightly Rate: Around $10,000 for the Presidential Bungalow
- Unique Attributes: Private pool, outdoor showers, and 24-hour staff
- Celebrity Legacy: A long-time favorite among film stars, musicians, and global elites
The Beverly Hills Hotel remains a symbol of California’s luxury lifestyle, balancing heritage charm with modern opulence.
4 | The Baccarat Hotel, New York
The Baccarat Hotel New York, located near Fifth Avenue, is defined by crystal artistry and Parisian-inspired interiors. The hotel integrates fine craftsmanship from Baccarat Crystal, offering guests a luminous and elegant experience.
Distinctive details:
- Average Nightly Rate: Around $8,000 for the Baccarat Suite
- Notable Features: Crystal chandeliers, handcrafted furniture, and curated art pieces
- Guest Services: 24-hour spa, in-room champagne service, and a glass-walled pool
The Baccarat Hotel exemplifies French refinement within the vibrant energy of New York, offering a unique blend of design, exclusivity, and sensory luxury.
5 | Four Seasons Hotel, New York Downtown
The Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown is a symbol of contemporary elegance in Lower Manhattan. Designed by architect Robert A.M. Stern, it features minimalist interiors with luxurious finishes.
Core elements:
- Average Nightly Rate: $6,000 for the Royal Suite
- Notable Amenities: In-room spa treatments, infinity-edge tubs, and skyline views of One World Trade Center
- Clientele: Global executives and discerning travelers seeking urban privacy
This hotel blends modern design with impeccable hospitality, showcasing how contemporary luxury can match heritage grandeur.
6 | The St. Regis Aspen Resort
The St. Regis Aspen Resort in Colorado combines mountain scenery with five-star sophistication. Nestled at the base of Aspen Mountain, it attracts elite ski travelers seeking winter luxury.
Defining attributes:
- Average Nightly Rate: Around $5,500 for the Presidential Suite
- Signature Experiences: Private ski valet, Remède Spa, and champagne sabering rituals
- Design Aesthetic: Mountain lodge style fused with rich leather and stone interiors
The St. Regis Aspen delivers alpine exclusivity with the refinement of a global luxury brand.
7 | Aman New York
Aman New York, located in the Crown Building on Fifth Avenue, represents modern tranquility within the heart of Manhattan. This ultra-luxury property by Aman Resorts focuses on privacy and wellness.
Distinctive features:
- Average Nightly Rate: $8,500 for suites with private terraces
- Key Amenities: Japanese-inspired spa, private cigar lounge, and indoor garden courtyards
- Experience Focus: Holistic well-being, serenity, and architectural simplicity
Aman New York offers sanctuary-like spaces that redefine what urban luxury can feel like, quiet, personal, and deeply curated.
8 | Faena Hotel, Miami Beach
The Faena Hotel Miami Beach combines art, culture, and luxury under one roof. Created by Alan Faena and designed by Baz Luhrmann and Catherine Martin, it is known for its dramatic red-and-gold interiors.
Highlights include:
- Average Nightly Rate: $4,000 for the Premier Oceanfront Suite
- Artistic Value: Home to Damien Hirst’s golden mammoth sculpture and other contemporary artworks
- Luxury Experiences: Oceanfront dining, cabaret shows, and personalized wellness treatments
Faena Hotel redefines Miami luxury through theatrical design and sensory indulgence.
9 | The Breakers, Palm Beach
The Breakers Palm Beach stands as one of America’s most historic luxury hotels. Built by Henry Flagler in 1896, it combines Renaissance-style architecture with oceanfront grandeur.
Core traits:
- Average Nightly Rate: $5,000 for premium suites
- Distinctive Features: Private beach, golf courses, and Forbes Five-Star spa
- Reputation: Consistently ranked among the best resorts in the U.S. for heritage and family luxury
The Breakers maintains a balance between old-world charm and modern sophistication, appealing to generations of luxury travelers.
10 | The Little Nell, Aspen
The Little Nell in Aspen, Colorado, is a five-star ski-in/ski-out resort known for its intimacy and personalized service. Located at the base of Aspen Mountain, it caters to adventure-seeking luxury travelers.
Essential attributes:
- Average Nightly Rate: $3,500 for premium suites
- Unique Features: Private wine cellar, personal ski concierge, and direct gondola access
- Client Focus: High-net-worth guests seeking privacy, comfort, and mountain elegance
The Little Nell defines alpine luxury through precision hospitality and seamless access to outdoor recreation.
Where Do Celebrities and Billionaires Stay in the US?
Celebrities and billionaires in the United States consistently choose hotels that combine privacy, luxury, and exclusivity. Their preferred destinations, spanning from Los Angeles to New York City and Miami Beach, offer personalized service, security, and brand prestige. For those seeking romantic escapes abroad, explore romantic places in Europe for couples, featuring timeless destinations filled with charm and luxury.
These luxury hotels are not only accommodation spaces but also private sanctuaries designed to meet the lifestyle needs of high-profile guests. Every stay emphasizes discretion, convenience, and access to world-class amenities such as private villas, penthouse suites, and 24-hour butler service.
Hotels Preferred by Hollywood Stars and Global Elites
Hotels such as The Beverly Hills Hotel, The Peninsula Beverly Hills, and The Mark Hotel New York remain long-standing favorites among Hollywood celebrities and global elites.
These properties combine high-end privacy with iconic status, often serving as home bases for red-carpet preparations and industry gatherings.
Key properties and their appeal include:
- The Beverly Hills Hotel, Los Angeles: Favored by stars like Taylor Swift and Leonardo DiCaprio for its secluded bungalows and private gardens.
- The Peninsula Beverly Hills: Offers VIP entrances, soundproof suites, and exclusive chauffeur services, frequently chosen by film producers and royal guests.
- The Mark Hotel, New York City: Known for hosting A-list guests during events such as the Met Gala; its penthouse is one of the largest and most private in Manhattan.
- Aman New York: Preferred by billionaires for its holistic spa, discreet service, and ultra-secure environment.
These hotels uphold reputations built on consistency, refined luxury, and protection from public attention.
Luxury Stays During Major US Events (Oscars, Art Basel, Fashion Week)
During major American events, luxury hotels across key cities become the epicenters of celebrity and billionaire activity. Each event aligns with specific hotel hotspots that match the tone and prestige of the occasion.
| Major Event | City | Preferred Hotels | Defining Features |
| Academy Awards (Oscars) | Los Angeles | The Beverly Hills Hotel, Chateau Marmont, The Peninsula Beverly Hills | Red-carpet proximity, private suites, VIP entrances |
| Art Basel Miami Beach | Miami | Faena Hotel Miami Beach, The Setai, The Edition Miami | Art-centric design, beachfront villas, exclusive lounges |
| New York Fashion Week | New York City | The Mark Hotel, The Baccarat Hotel, Aman New York | Designer collaborations, private penthouses, media discretion |
| Super Bowl Weekend | Varies (often Las Vegas or LA) | Four Seasons, Waldorf Astoria, Wynn Las Vegas | Luxury entertainment, event access, and private security |
These events transform high-end hotels into temporary private residences where convenience, visibility, and security converge. The combination of luxury infrastructure and celebrity clientele reinforces each hotel’s global brand prestige.
Privacy, Exclusivity, and Status as Decision Drivers
For celebrities and billionaires, privacy and exclusivity determine hotel choice more than location alone. These guests prioritize spaces designed for personal security, anonymity, and status recognition.
Core decision drivers include:
- Privacy Infrastructure: Many luxury hotels provide private elevators, hidden entrances, and exclusive floor access for VIP guests.
- Exclusivity of Experience: Suites are limited, ensuring limited public exposure and a controlled environment.
- Symbol of Status: Staying at The Plaza or The Ritz-Carlton signifies wealth and cultural influence, becoming part of a guest’s personal brand.
- Discretion in Service: Staff members are trained in confidentiality and high-profile guest protocols, ensuring complete trust.
For affluent travelers, the best hotels are extensions of identity, spaces where comfort meets prestige, and luxury is measured by how invisible and effortless the experience feels.
Most Expensive Resorts and Private Retreats in the US
The United States hosts some of the world’s most luxurious resorts and private retreats, where natural landscapes meet world-class service and architecture. These destinations, nestled in mountain ranges, coastal cliffs, and vineyard valleys, offer travelers seclusion, exclusivity, and curated experiences far beyond standard five-star stays.
Guests at these resorts pay not only for luxury accommodations but also for personalized privacy, wellness programs, and direct access to nature. From Jackson Hole to Big Sur, these properties redefine American luxury hospitality through design, tranquility, and craftsmanship. For travelers who enjoy exploring international opulence, you can also read our guide on the best places to visit in Dubai, a city known for its world-class hotels and record-breaking luxury experiences.
Mountain Resorts | Amangani, Twin Farms, and Caldera House
Amangani in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, stands as one of the most expensive mountain resorts in the United States. The resort combines modern architecture with panoramic views of the Teton Mountains.
- Average Nightly Rate: Around $3,000 per suite
- Distinctive Features: Infinity-edge pools, stone-and-wood interiors, and private wildlife tours
- Guest Experience: Focused on wellness, privacy, and natural immersion
Twin Farms in Barnard, Vermont, offers an intimate countryside retreat with only 20 cottages spread across 300 acres.
- Average Nightly Rate: Around $4,500 per night, all-inclusive
- Exclusive Offerings: Custom meals by top chefs, private art collections, and seasonal outdoor activities
- Reputation: Preferred by couples and executives seeking exclusivity and rural luxury
Caldera House in Jackson Hole provides contemporary alpine luxury steps away from the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.
- Average Nightly Rate: Around $4,000 for two-bedroom suites
- Luxury Attributes: Private chefs, ski concierges, and expansive terraces with mountain views
These mountain resorts deliver elevated experiences where architecture, landscape, and service merge to create refined serenity.
Beachfront Luxury | Post Ranch Inn and Montage Laguna Beach
Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur, California, is a coastal sanctuary overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Built into rugged cliffs, it’s renowned for eco-luxury and minimalist design.
- Average Nightly Rate: Around $3,500 for ocean-view suites
- Signature Features: Cliffside infinity pools, organic architecture, and adults-only environment
- Wellness Focus: Yoga classes, guided nature walks, and holistic spa treatments
Montage Laguna Beach in Southern California blends classic coastal elegance with five-star service.
- Average Nightly Rate: Around $2,500 for oceanfront rooms
- Exclusive Amenities: Private beach access, fine dining at Studio Restaurant, and ocean-view spa services
- Guest Profile: Popular among celebrities, business leaders, and affluent families
Both resorts exemplify beachfront luxury through environmental harmony, ocean views, and seamless comfort.
Nature Escapes | Napa Valley, Vermont, and Big Sur Retreats
Nature-based luxury retreats in the United States combine sustainability, privacy, and gastronomy. These destinations prioritize connection with the natural environment while maintaining refined service and world-class comfort.
Napa Valley in California offers vineyard resorts like Auberge du Soleil and Carneros Resort and Spa, where guests enjoy wine-country serenity.
- Defining Traits: Vineyard views, private cottages, and Michelin-starred dining
- Average Nightly Rate: $2,000–$3,500 depending on the season
Vermont features forested retreats such as Twin Farms and The Lodge at Spruce Peak, where luxury meets rustic charm.
- Experience Type: Cozy interiors, outdoor adventure, and seasonal cuisine
- Environment Focus: Sustainable architecture and handcrafted materials
Big Sur Retreats, including Post Ranch Inn and Ventana Big Sur, create immersive natural experiences along the Pacific cliffs.
- Core Elements: Ocean panoramas, redwood forest trails, and open-air spas
- Luxury Concept: Combining ecological design with meditative calm
These nature escapes redefine luxury travel by emphasizing space, silence, and connection to the landscape rather than material opulence alone.
Conclusion | The Pinnacle of American Luxury, A World Apart
At the summit of global hospitality, the most expensive hotels in the United States stand as a benchmark of elegance, privacy, and curated experience. While Europe’s heritage hotels and Dubai’s architectural marvels define luxury through tradition and spectacle, American hospitality distinguishes itself through authenticity and personalization, where every stay feels custom-crafted for the guest.
At WiseToast, our travel editors believe that luxury in the US is no longer about extravagance alone, it’s about connection, privacy, and meaning.
Whether it’s the Hollywood elite retreating to The Beverly Hills Hotel, or wellness travelers finding solitude at Post Ranch Inn, the American approach to indulgence is deeply human and ever-evolving.
In a world that celebrates experiences over excess, the US continues to lead not just in comfort, but in redefining what true luxury feels like, intimate, inspired, and unforgettable.
FAQs About the Most Expensive Hotels in the US
The Mark Hotel in New York City often tops the list, with its Penthouse Suite costing over $75,000 per night.
High prices reflect exclusive locations, personalized service, world-class design, and limited-access luxury experiences.
New York City leads with premier names like The Plaza, The Mark, and Aman New York dominating the high-end market.
Yes, celebrities and billionaires frequently choose properties like The Beverly Hills Hotel and The St. Regis Aspen Resort for privacy and service.
Private butlers, penthouse suites, fine dining, designer interiors, and spa-level wellness programs define their premium value.
