Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
40% cheaper
New Orleans is 40% more affordable than Jersey City. A $75,000 salary in Jersey City is equivalent to $44,907 in New Orleans.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New Jersey salaries · Louisiana salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Jersey City has a housing index of 249 while New Orleans sits at 95 (national average = 100). The median home in Jersey City costs $540,000 compared to $245,000 in New Orleans, a difference of $295,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,600 in Jersey City versus $1,200 in New Orleans.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Jersey City scores 105 while New Orleans scores 99. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Jersey City (106) are higher than New Orleans (94). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Jersey City is $80,820 compared to $43,258 in New Orleans. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in New Orleans.
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