Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $69,778
Population: 3,979,576
Median Income: $53,420
Population: 1,547,253
When comparing Los Angeles and San Antonio, the overall cost of living differs by 48.2%. Los Angeles carries a cost index of 166 compared to San Antonio's 86, meaning your dollar stretches 48% further in San Antonio.
Housing is where the most significant gap appears between these two cities. San Antonio has a housing index of 78 compared to Los Angeles's 208. This 130-point difference translates to substantial monthly savings on rent or mortgage payments in San Antonio.
San Antonio is more affordable across all categories.
San Antonio is more affordable for: Housing, Food & Groceries, Transportation, Healthcare, Utilities, Entertainment, Taxes.
If you earn $60,000 in Los Angeles, you would need $31,084 in San Antonio to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $51,807.
The median household income in Los Angeles is $69,778 compared to $53,420 in San Antonio. While Los Angeles has higher incomes, the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: Los Angeles scores 5/10 while San Antonio scores 6/10 in our safety assessment.
Weather: Los Angeles has an edge in climate with a 9/10 weather score compared to San Antonio's 6/10.
Job Market: Los Angeles's job market (8/10) is stronger than San Antonio's (6/10).
San Antonio 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.
