Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
39% cheaper
New Orleans is 39% more affordable than San Diego. A $75,000 salary in San Diego is equivalent to $45,469 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 · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. New Orleans has a housing index of 95 while San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in New Orleans costs $245,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $555,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in New Orleans versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: New Orleans scores 99 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in New Orleans (94) are lower than San Diego (107). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in New Orleans is $43,258 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in New Orleans.
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