Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
18% cheaper
New Orleans is 18% more affordable than Burlington. A $75,000 salary in Burlington is equivalent to $61,653 in New Orleans.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Vermont salaries · Louisiana salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Burlington has a housing index of 139 while New Orleans sits at 95 (national average = 100). The median home in Burlington costs $380,000 compared to $245,000 in New Orleans, a difference of $135,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,800 in Burlington versus $1,200 in New Orleans.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Burlington scores 108 while New Orleans scores 99.
Healthcare costs in Burlington (116) are higher than New Orleans (94).
Median household income in Burlington is $51,098 compared to $43,258 in New Orleans. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in New Orleans.
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