New Orleans vs Philadelphia: cost of living compared
Philadelphia is 22% more expensive than New Orleans overall. State income tax tops out around 3.07% in PA 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 New Orleans and Philadelphia reveals a noticeable difference in overall expenses. New Orleans generally offers a more affordable cost of living, with most categories falling below the national average. Philadelphia, in contrast, tends to be more expensive across the board, with its overall costs exceeding the national benchmark. This disparity is largely driven by housing and transportation, which show significant gaps between the two cities.
Housing
Housing costs present a substantial contrast, with both median home prices and typical one-bedroom rents being considerably lower in New Orleans. While Philadelphia's housing market is more expensive, it offers a diverse stock ranging from historic rowhouses to modern apartments. New Orleans features a mix of historic homes, including shotgun houses, and newer constructions. Property taxes and insurance costs can vary significantly in both locations, impacting the total cost of homeownership.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses for food, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods are generally more budget-friendly in New Orleans. However, utilities might be somewhat higher there. Transportation costs are noticeably greater in Philadelphia, which has a more extensive public transit system and higher associated vehicle expenses. Regarding state income tax, New Orleans's state has a somewhat higher top marginal rate compared to Philadelphia's state, which is a factor for take-home pay.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, a move between these cities means adjusting to different environments. New Orleans is known for its warm, humid climate and a more relaxed pace, with a distinct cultural atmosphere and a flatter landscape. Philadelphia experiences four distinct seasons, including colder winters, and offers a denser, more urban environment with a comprehensive public transportation network. Commute times are typically shorter in New Orleans compared to Philadelphia.
Bottom line
For those considering a move, New Orleans generally offers a more budget-friendly lifestyle, particularly regarding housing and most everyday expenses. While utilities might be a bit higher in New Orleans, and its state income tax rate is somewhat greater, these are often offset by significant savings elsewhere. Philadelphia presents a higher cost of living across many categories, especially for housing and getting around, requiring a larger budget for similar comforts.
| Measure | New Orleans, LA | Philadelphia, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 92 | 112 |
| Housing index | 74 | 91 |
| Transportation index | 93 | 120 |
| Food index | 95 | 105 |
| Healthcare index | 92 | 108 |
| Utilities index | 108 | 105 |
| Misc index | 88 | 102 |
| Median home price | $248,000 | $298,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,200/mo | $1,550/mo |
| Average commute | 26 min | 34 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Philadelphia home with the True Cost Calculator.