Los Angeles vs New York City
Cost of Living (2026)
Los Angeles is 15% less expensive than New York City.
Enter your salary → get exact comparisonAt a glance
Los Angeles, CA
COL index163 ✓
State income tax9.3%
Avg 1BR rent$2,600/mo ✓
Median home price$850K
VS
New York City, NY
COL index187
State income tax6.85% ✓
Avg 1BR rent$3,400/mo
Median home price$750K ✓
Cost breakdown by category
Salary equivalency: Los Angeles → New York City
What salary in New York City gives you the same purchasing power as your Los Angeles salary?
Los Angeles vs New York City: Full Cost of Living Comparison (2026)
When comparing the cost of living between Los Angeles, CA and New York City, NY, Los Angeles comes out significantly more affordable with a COL index of 163 versus 187 for New York City — a difference of approximately 15%.
State income tax impact
Los Angeles workers pay 9.3% California state income tax, while New York City workers pay 6.85%.
Housing costs
The median home price in Los Angeles is $850,000, compared to $750,000 in New York City. Average 1-bedroom rent is $2,600/month in Los Angeles versus $3,400/month in New York City.