Los Angeles vs New York: Cost of Living Compared (2026)

Updated Jun 2026 (3 months ago) · Source: U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, U.S. Energy Information Administration

Los Angeles vs New York cost comparison with difference bars
MetricLos AngelesNew YorkDifference
Rent (1BR)$1,744$1,742
+0%
Median household income$81,939$80,483
+2%
Grocery cost index106.1107.3
-1%
Utilities (monthly)$313$265
+17%

Salary equivalent between cities

Equivalent salary needed
$72,254
Difference
-$7,746