By Ziv Shay | Updated April 2026
Compare the cost of living between 50 major US cities. See how far your salary goes in a different city.
Understanding the cost of living in different cities is essential when considering a move, negotiating a salary, or planning your financial future. Our calculator compares costs across seven major categories: housing, food and groceries, transportation, healthcare, utilities, entertainment, and taxes.
A cost of living index measures the relative price levels for consumer goods and services. The national average is set at 100. A city with an index of 120 is 20% more expensive than the national average, while a city with an index of 80 is 20% cheaper.
Housing is typically the largest factor, often making up 30-40% of monthly expenses. Cities like San Francisco (295) and New York (238) have housing costs far above the national average, while cities like Detroit (52) and Cleveland (58) offer significantly more affordable housing.
Food & Groceries costs vary less dramatically but can still differ by 20-30% between the most and least expensive cities. Urban centers on the coasts tend to have higher food costs.
Transportation includes vehicle costs, gas, insurance, and public transit. Cities with good public transportation may offset higher transit fares with lower car ownership costs.
Healthcare costs vary by region based on provider availability, insurance markets, and local regulations. Major medical centers often correlate with higher healthcare costs.
Our salary equivalent feature shows you exactly how much you would need to earn in a new city to maintain your current standard of living. This accounts for differences across all cost categories, giving you a comprehensive picture of your purchasing power.
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