Getting cash from an automated teller machine (ATM) that is outside a consumer’s network is more expensive than ever, and in some U.S. cities the average cost of accessing paper money is more than $5, according to fresh data.
A new study released by Bankrate this week found the national average combined fees for an out-of-network withdrawal has risen for the fourth consecutive year and hit a record high of $4.77.
“If you make an out-of-network ATM withdrawal, expect to pay and pay more than ever before,” Bankrate chief financial analyst Greg McBride told FOX Business in a statement. “Fees have increased again and you’ll typically pay two fees – one to the ATM owner and another to your own bank.”
McBride suggests consumers confine their cash withdrawals to in-network ATMs or get cash back when using a debit card. He also recommends people find out if their bank participates in a nationwide ATM network that can be used free of charge.
BACK-TO-SCHOOL SCAMS AND FRAUDSTERS TO BEWARE: WHAT FAMILIES MUST KNOW
According to the findings, these are the cities with the highest average ATM fees in the country:
1. Atlanta, Georgia – $5.33
![Atlanta](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxbusiness.com/foxbusiness.com/content/uploads/2021/07/931/523/Atlanta-Georgia-iStock.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
2. San Diego, California – $5.22
CREDIT COUNSELING DEMAND SURGES IN 2024, WITH THESE STATES HARDEST-HIT
3. Phoenix, Arizona – $5.22
![Phoenix](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxbusiness.com/foxbusiness.com/content/uploads/2022/01/931/523/Phoenix.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
4. Detroit, Michigan – $5.18
5. Cleveland, Ohio – $5.10
![Downtown Cleveland with River, Bridge, Trees, and Deep Blue Sky](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxbusiness.com/foxbusiness.com/content/uploads/2022/02/931/523/iStock-577622116.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Bankrate studied which cities have the lowest ATM fees, too. Boston, Massachusetts, came in with the least expensive average at $4.16, followed by Seattle ($4.34), and Philadelphia, ($4.42).