Here are the rankings, characteristics and cost of living for each of these cities:

1. Boston (#32)

Median home price: $948,000

Median Household Income: $130,663

Cost of Living: 46% above the national average

Boston is the historical, cultural, and educational center of the United States, and is home to some of the most prestigious universities, including Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The healthcare and education industries are the backbone of the local economy, but the high cost of living is prohibitive.

A one-bedroom apartment in Boston, Massachusetts is listed at $619,000. (Realtor.com)

2. San Francisco (#36)

Median Home Price: $1,200,000

Median Household Income: $136,689

Cost of Living: 70% above the national average

San Francisco's status as a global tech center has attracted a large number of high-income earners, but housing prices and the cost of living have skyrocketed. Despite this, the rich cultural experience, easy access to transportation and natural beauty continue to attract expats.

A two-bedroom apartment in this building in San Francisco, California, lists for $1.75 million. (Realtor.com)

3. Honolulu (#39)

Median home price: $618,500

Median Household Income: $99,816

Cost of Living: 85% above the national average

Known for its tropical climate and stunning beaches, Honolulu is a dream destination for many. However, the high cost of living makes it a luxury living option.

This three-bedroom home in Honolulu, Hawaii is listed at $2.55 million. (Realtor.com)

4. Los Angeles (#44)

Median Home Price: $1,200,000

Median Household Income: $79,701

Cost of Living: 50% higher than the national average

As the entertainment capital of the world, Los Angeles has a great climate and rich culture, but high prices and heavy traffic can be a challenge.

This three-bedroom home in Los Angeles, California, is listed for $1,499,000. (Realtor.com)

5. New York City (#45)

Median home price: $850,000

Median Household Income: $76,607

Cost of Living: 130% above the national average

New York City is known for its multiculturalism and great public transportation, but the high cost of living means that living here requires strong financial support.

This three-bedroom apartment in Manhattan's Hamilton Heights neighborhood is listed at $649,000. (Realtor.com)

6. Portland (#48)

Median home price: $534,500

Median Household Income: $88,876

Cost of Living: 19% above national average

Portland has a fast-growing economy and attracts expats with an environmentally friendly and progressive culture. Compared to other cities on the list, the cost of living here is low.

This four-bedroom home in Portland, Oregon, is listed at $840,000. (Realtor.com)

7. Washington, D.C. (#49)

Median home price: $608,000

Median Household Income: $111,000

Cost of Living: 39% above the national average

Washington, D.C., is not only a center of political power and rich in cultural resources, such as the Smithsonian and the National Gallery of Art, but the cost of living is still high.

This two-bedroom townhouse in Washington, D.C., lists for $950,000. (Realtor.com)

While these cities excel in quality of life, the cost of living is much higher than the national average. For expats, moving to these cities may require finding a balance between quality of life and financial stress.

Regardless of where you choose, knowing the housing market and cost of living ahead of time and creating a budget is an important step in ensuring a smooth move.