Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
9% cheaper
New Orleans is 9% more affordable than Salt Lake City. A $75,000 salary in Salt Lake City is equivalent to $67,991 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 · Utah salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. New Orleans has a housing index of 95 while Salt Lake City sits at 120 (national average = 100). The median home in New Orleans costs $245,000 compared to $440,000 in Salt Lake City, a difference of $195,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in New Orleans versus $1,500 in Salt Lake City.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: New Orleans scores 99 while Salt Lake City scores 99. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in New Orleans (94) are lower than Salt Lake City (97). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in New Orleans is $43,258 compared to $60,590 in Salt Lake City. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in New Orleans.
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