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Cost of Living Calculator — Compare Cities & Salary Equivalents

See how much you'd need to earn in a new city to maintain your current lifestyle. Compare 30 major US metros across 5 categories.

Free, no signup Runs in your browser — nothing stored Reviewed October 2026
Compare Two Cities

How to Use This Cost of Living Calculator

Select your current city, the city you're considering, and your annual salary. The calculator uses BLS-style cost indices across 5 major spending categories to show exactly how your purchasing power changes between locations.

Understanding Cost of Living Differences

Housing is by far the largest cost differentiator between cities — often accounting for 60-70% of the total cost difference. A move from Kansas City (housing index 80) to San Francisco (housing index 268) means housing costs more than 3× as much. Use the Rent vs Buy Calculator to decide the best housing approach in your new city.

Frequently Asked Questions

A cost of living index measures how expensive it is to live in a particular area compared to a national average (set at 100). An index of 150 means that city is 50% more expensive than average. Indices cover categories like housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and utilities.
Cities in the Midwest and South typically have the lowest cost of living. Detroit, Kansas City, Indianapolis, San Antonio, and Pittsburgh consistently rank among the most affordable major metros with indices below 95.
Employers in high-cost cities generally pay more, but salaries don't always fully compensate for cost differences. A $100K salary in Austin, TX may provide the same purchasing power as $140K+ in San Francisco due to housing cost differences.
Absolutely. Use this calculator to determine the equivalent salary in your new city. If moving to a higher-cost area, present data showing the cost difference and request at least a partial cost-of-living adjustment.
These calculators provide strong estimates based on BLS regional price parities and census data. Individual costs may vary by neighborhood, lifestyle, and housing choices. Use results as a directional guide, not an exact prediction.
New York City and San Francisco consistently rank as the most expensive US cities, driven primarily by housing costs. Housing in NYC costs nearly 3× the national average, while San Francisco isn't far behind.

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Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates for educational purposes only and is not financial, tax, or legal advice. Results depend on the numbers you enter and the assumptions described above. For decisions about your specific situation, consult a qualified professional.