Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
36% cheaper
Salt Lake City is 36% more affordable than Los Angeles. A $75,000 salary in Los Angeles is equivalent to $48,343 in Salt Lake City.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: California salaries · Utah salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Los Angeles has a housing index of 262 while Salt Lake City sits at 120 (national average = 100). The median home in Los Angeles costs $850,000 compared to $440,000 in Salt Lake City, a difference of $410,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,700 in Los Angeles versus $1,500 in Salt Lake City.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Los Angeles scores 107 while Salt Lake City scores 99.
Healthcare costs in Los Angeles (103) are higher than Salt Lake City (97). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Los Angeles is $65,290 compared to $60,590 in Salt Lake City. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Salt Lake City.
Amazon affiliate links