Ever wonder which states go all out on summer vacations—and which ones keep it closer to home? We dug into fresh KAYAK flight search data to see how Americans plan to spend their travel budgets from now through mid-September. From luxury long-hauls to thrifty cross-border escapes, every state has its own summer travel vibe.
Big Spenders vs. Budget Flyers
The national average for summer flights is $496, but spending swings dramatically depending on where you live. Hawaiians top the list, shelling out an average of $714 per ticket. Alaskans and New Jerseyans aren’t far behind, both cruising past $600 on average. Geography explains Hawaii and Alaska’s high spend—almost anywhere they fly counts as a long-haul. New Jersey’s splurge factor is more surprising, given Newark’s role as a major hub. The data suggests Jersey travelers are leaning toward premium cabins or longer international journeys.
On the other end, Minnesota and Colorado are keeping flight costs under $400. That suggests many travelers in these states may be opting for nearby escapes instead of long-haul adventures.
Where Everyone’s Headed This Summer
So, what’s hot on the departure boards? Here’s a look at some standout routes and price points:
Mexico still rules: Cancún remains the go-to beach destination across dozens of states, with round-trip fares dipping as low as $346 out of Florida and $364 from Texas.
Europe’s classics hold strong: London, Paris, Rome, and Dublin dominate flight searches, with prices ranging from $645 (Boston to Dublin) to over $1,100 (Kentucky to Rome).
Asia on the rise: Tokyo is a top pick for travelers from coast to coast, with some of the steepest fares this season—$1,291 from Georgia and $1,414 from New York.
Unexpected favorites: States like Delaware and Virginia are showing high interest in flights to India, with fares topping $1,200. Meanwhile, Oregon and Washington travelers are eyeing Iceland, with Reykjavik coming in between $580–$631.
The Takeaway
Summer travel in 2025 is a tale of two trends: some states are willing to splurge on bucket-list adventures across the Atlantic or Pacific, while others are sticking to budget-friendly beach towns or quick hops across the border. Whether it’s $300 for a quick getaway to Toronto or over $1,400 to Tokyo, the numbers show just how differently Americans define the “perfect summer trip.”
