By Ziv Shay | Updated April 2026
Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $69,778
Population: 3,979,576
Median Income: $56,831
Population: 1,343,573
When comparing Los Angeles and Dallas, the overall cost of living differs by 42.2%. Los Angeles carries a cost index of 166 compared to Dallas's 96, meaning your dollar stretches 42% further in Dallas.
Housing is where the most significant gap appears between these two cities. Dallas has a housing index of 95 compared to Los Angeles's 208. This 113-point difference translates to substantial monthly savings on rent or mortgage payments in Dallas.
Dallas is more affordable across all categories.
Dallas is more affordable for: Housing, Food & Groceries, Transportation, Healthcare, Utilities, Entertainment, Taxes.
If you earn $60,000 in Los Angeles, you would need $34,699 in Dallas to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $57,831.
The median household income in Los Angeles is $69,778 compared to $56,831 in Dallas. While Los Angeles has higher incomes, the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: Los Angeles scores 5/10 while Dallas scores 5/10 in our safety assessment.
Weather: Los Angeles has an edge in climate with a 9/10 weather score compared to Dallas's 6/10.
Job Market: Both cities have comparable job markets at 8/10.
Dallas 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.
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