Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $66,579
Population: 478,961
Median Income: $69,778
Population: 3,979,576
When comparing Colorado Springs and Los Angeles, the overall cost of living differs by 62.7%. Los Angeles carries a cost index of 166 compared to Colorado Springs's 102, meaning your dollar stretches 39% further in Colorado Springs.
Housing is where the most significant gap appears between these two cities. Colorado Springs has a housing index of 108 compared to Los Angeles's 208. This 100-point difference translates to substantial monthly savings on rent or mortgage payments in Colorado Springs.
Colorado Springs is more affordable for: Housing, Food & Groceries, Transportation, Healthcare, Utilities, Entertainment, Taxes.
If you earn $60,000 in Colorado Springs, you would need $97,647 in Los Angeles to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $162,745.
The median household income in Colorado Springs is $66,579 compared to $69,778 in Los Angeles. Los Angeles has higher incomes, though the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: Colorado Springs scores 7/10 while Los Angeles scores 5/10 in our safety assessment.
Weather: Los Angeles enjoys better weather with a score of 9/10 versus Colorado Springs's 7/10.
Job Market: Los Angeles has the stronger job market (8/10) compared to Colorado Springs (7/10).
Colorado Springs is the more affordable option overall, but cost is just one factor in deciding where to live. Consider your career opportunities, family needs, and lifestyle preferences alongside the financial comparison. Los Angeles may justify its higher costs with a thriving job market that many residents find worthwhile.
