Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
6% cheaper
New Orleans is 6% more affordable than Richmond. A $75,000 salary in Richmond is equivalent to $70,631 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 · Virginia salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. New Orleans has a housing index of 95 while Richmond sits at 108 (national average = 100). The median home in New Orleans costs $245,000 compared to $300,000 in Richmond, a difference of $55,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in New Orleans versus $1,400 in Richmond.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: New Orleans scores 99 while Richmond scores 100. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in New Orleans (94) are lower than Richmond (100). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in New Orleans is $43,258 compared to $50,120 in Richmond. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in New Orleans.
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