Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $69,778
Population: 3,979,576
Median Income: $55,530
Population: 949,611
When comparing Los Angeles and Jacksonville, the overall cost of living differs by 44.6%. Los Angeles carries a cost index of 166 compared to Jacksonville's 92, meaning your dollar stretches 45% further in Jacksonville.
Housing is where the most significant gap appears between these two cities. Jacksonville has a housing index of 88 compared to Los Angeles's 208. This 120-point difference translates to substantial monthly savings on rent or mortgage payments in Jacksonville.
Jacksonville is more affordable across all categories.
Jacksonville is more affordable for: Housing, Food & Groceries, Transportation, Healthcare, Utilities, Entertainment, Taxes.
If you earn $60,000 in Los Angeles, you would need $33,253 in Jacksonville to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $55,422.
The median household income in Los Angeles is $69,778 compared to $55,530 in Jacksonville. While Los Angeles has higher incomes, the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: Los Angeles scores 5/10 while Jacksonville scores 5/10 in our safety assessment.
Weather: Los Angeles has an edge in climate with a 9/10 weather score compared to Jacksonville's 7/10.
Job Market: Los Angeles's job market (8/10) is stronger than Jacksonville's (6/10).
Jacksonville 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.
