Cleveland vs New Orleans: cost of living compared
New Orleans is 12% more expensive than Cleveland overall. State income tax tops out around 3.5% in OH vs 4.25% in LA.
Indexes use a US average of 100: below 100 is cheaper than the national average. Housing and transportation are derived from median home prices, rents and commute times; figures come from BLS, Census ACS, Numbeo and the MIT Living Wage Calculator.
The big picture
Comparing Cleveland and New Orleans reveals a noticeable difference in overall cost of living. Cleveland generally offers a more budget-friendly environment, with expenses across most categories being lower. This gap is primarily driven by housing costs, which are significantly more affordable in Cleveland, making it a key factor in the overall financial picture for residents considering a move between these two cities.
Housing
Housing in Cleveland is considerably more affordable, whether buying a home or renting. Median home prices show a substantial difference, and monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is also notably lower. Cleveland's housing stock often includes older, established homes, while New Orleans can feature historic architecture but at a higher price point. Property taxes and insurance costs can vary, impacting total ownership expenses.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses for transportation, food, and utilities are generally lower in Cleveland. While healthcare costs are roughly similar in both metros, utilities are more expensive in New Orleans, especially due to climate control needs. State income tax is also somewhat higher in Louisiana. These differences mean that routine spending on essentials will typically be more economical in Cleveland.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, lifestyle differences are notable. Cleveland experiences distinct four seasons, including cold winters, while New Orleans has a humid, subtropical climate with mild winters and hot, long summers. Both cities offer public transit options, but personal vehicles are common. New Orleans is known for its vibrant cultural scene and dense historic districts, while Cleveland offers a more varied urban and suburban landscape with a different pace.
Bottom line
For households weighing a move, Cleveland presents a clear advantage in terms of overall affordability, largely due to its much lower housing costs. While some daily expenses like transportation are roughly comparable, the cumulative effect of cheaper housing, food, and utilities in Cleveland means a household budget will stretch further there, offering a more economical living experience compared to New Orleans.
| Measure | Cleveland, OH | New Orleans, LA |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 82 | 92 |
| Housing index | 57 | 74 |
| Transportation index | 91 | 93 |
| Food index | 90 | 95 |
| Healthcare index | 92 | 92 |
| Utilities index | 98 | 108 |
| Misc index | 82 | 88 |
| Median home price | $188,000 | $248,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $950/mo | $1,200/mo |
| Average commute | 26 min | 26 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific New Orleans home with the True Cost Calculator.