Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
25% cheaper
New Orleans is 25% more affordable than Portland. A $75,000 salary in Portland is equivalent to $55,962 in New Orleans.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Louisiana salaries · Oregon salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. New Orleans has a housing index of 95 while Portland sits at 168 (national average = 100). The median home in New Orleans costs $245,000 compared to $480,000 in Portland, a difference of $235,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in New Orleans versus $1,800 in Portland.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: New Orleans scores 99 while Portland scores 105. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in New Orleans (94) are lower than Portland (108).
Median household income in New Orleans is $43,258 compared to $71,005 in Portland. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in New Orleans.
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