Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
7% cheaper
San Antonio is 7% more affordable than New Orleans. A $75,000 salary in New Orleans is equivalent to $69,588 in San Antonio.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Louisiana salaries · Texas salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. New Orleans has a housing index of 95 while San Antonio sits at 78 (national average = 100). The median home in New Orleans costs $245,000 compared to $250,000 in San Antonio, a difference of $5,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in New Orleans versus $1,200 in San Antonio.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: New Orleans scores 99 while San Antonio scores 93.
Healthcare costs in New Orleans (94) are lower than San Antonio (95). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in New Orleans is $43,258 compared to $53,420 in San Antonio. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in San Antonio.
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