Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
12% cheaper
Tulsa is 12% more affordable than New Orleans. A $75,000 salary in New Orleans is equivalent to $65,722 in Tulsa.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Louisiana salaries · Oklahoma salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. New Orleans has a housing index of 95 while Tulsa sits at 63 (national average = 100). The median home in New Orleans costs $245,000 compared to $175,000 in Tulsa, a difference of $70,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in New Orleans versus $950 in Tulsa.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: New Orleans scores 99 while Tulsa scores 95. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in New Orleans (94) are higher than Tulsa (91).
Median household income in New Orleans is $43,258 compared to $48,278 in Tulsa. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Tulsa.
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