New Orleans vs Riverside: cost of living compared
Riverside is 28% more expensive than New Orleans overall. State income tax tops out around 4.25% in LA vs 9.3% in CA.
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
Overall, the cost of living in New Orleans is considerably lower than in Riverside. This significant difference is primarily driven by housing expenses, which are substantially higher in Riverside. While other categories like transportation, food, and healthcare also contribute to Riverside's higher costs, housing stands out as the biggest factor creating a noticeable gap between the two metros.
Housing
Housing costs present a stark contrast. Both median home prices and typical one-bedroom rents are dramatically higher in Riverside compared to New Orleans. New Orleans offers a historic housing stock, often featuring traditional architectural styles. While property taxes and insurance costs can vary, the initial investment for buying or renting in Riverside demands a much larger budget than in New Orleans.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses also differ significantly. California has a state income tax that is considerably higher than Louisiana's. Beyond taxes, transportation, food, and healthcare costs are all notably more expensive in Riverside. Utility costs are also higher in Riverside, though New Orleans utilities are still above the national average. This means everyday spending will generally be much greater in Riverside.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, a move between these cities involves distinct lifestyle changes. New Orleans offers a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters, known for its vibrant cultural scene and walkability in many areas. Riverside, located in Southern California, experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, and is typically more car-dependent with a longer average commute time.
Bottom line
For households considering a move, the financial implications are substantial. New Orleans offers a much more affordable cost of living across nearly all categories, particularly housing, allowing for greater purchasing power. Conversely, Riverside demands a significantly larger budget for housing and daily necessities. The decision hinges on balancing the desired climate and lifestyle with the considerable difference in overall expenses.
| Measure | New Orleans, LA | Riverside, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 92 | 118 |
| Housing index | 74 | 134 |
| Transportation index | 93 | 121 |
| Food index | 95 | 105 |
| Healthcare index | 92 | 108 |
| Utilities index | 108 | 122 |
| Misc index | 88 | 102 |
| Median home price | $248,000 | $498,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,200/mo | $1,850/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 Riverside home with the True Cost Calculator.