The rent in this neighborhood costs a king's ransom

[alpacinou]

Have I used "king's ransom" correctly and naturally?

This is one of the most expensive neighborhoods in this country. The rent costs a king's ransom and the tax is through the roof. Also, you have to pay a king's ransom each time you go to the grocery store. Even potato chips are more expensive here.

 

[Tarheel]

Yes.

 

[emsr2d2]

You've used it appropriately but I wouldn't use it twice in one short paragraph. Why not amalgamate the two pieces of information?

This is one of the most expensive neighbourhoods in the country. Groceries and rent cost a king's ransom, and local taxes are through the roof.