Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
9% cheaper
New Orleans is 9% more affordable than Springfield. A $75,000 salary in Springfield 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 · Massachusetts salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. New Orleans has a housing index of 95 while Springfield sits at 106 (national average = 100). The median home in New Orleans costs $245,000 compared to $230,000 in Springfield, a difference of $15,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in New Orleans versus $1,200 in Springfield.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: New Orleans scores 99 while Springfield scores 104. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in New Orleans (94) are lower than Springfield (114).
Median household income in New Orleans is $43,258 compared to $41,612 in Springfield. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in New Orleans.
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