New Orleans vs Salt Lake City: cost of living compared
Salt Lake City is 17% more expensive than New Orleans overall. State income tax tops out around 4.25% in LA vs 4.65% in UT.
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 Salt Lake City reveals a noticeable difference in overall cost of living, with New Orleans being the more budget-friendly option. This disparity is predominantly driven by housing expenses, which are significantly lower in the Louisiana city. While some everyday costs are roughly similar or slightly different, the substantial gap in housing prices and rents largely dictates the overall financial picture for residents considering a move between these two distinct metros.
Housing
Housing costs present the most significant contrast between these two cities. Both median home prices and typical one-bedroom rents are substantially lower in New Orleans compared to Salt Lake City. New Orleans often features historic homes and a mix of architectural styles, while Salt Lake City has seen considerable growth in newer construction. Beyond the purchase price, property taxes and insurance costs can vary, and it's wise to consider these alongside mortgage payments, though the initial cost difference is pronounced.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses show a mixed picture. New Orleans generally offers slightly lower costs for groceries, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods and services. However, utilities tend to be more expensive in New Orleans. Transportation costs are a bit lower in Salt Lake City, which also has a slightly higher state income tax rate. These differences mean that while some categories are more affordable in New Orleans, others like utilities might be a bit higher.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, lifestyle offers distinct experiences. New Orleans is known for its humid, subtropical climate and vibrant cultural scene, often with a more relaxed pace and a focus on historic neighborhoods. Public transit options exist, but many residents rely on personal vehicles. Salt Lake City, conversely, features a drier, four-season climate with proximity to mountain recreation. Its public transit system is robust, and the city generally feels more spread out, with a different urban density and pace.
Bottom line
For those weighing a move, the impact on your household budget will be substantial, primarily due to housing. New Orleans offers a considerably lower entry point for homeownership and renting. While some daily expenses like utilities might be higher there, and state income tax is a bit lower, the overall cost savings in New Orleans are significant. Salt Lake City, while offering a different climate and lifestyle, comes with a notably higher price tag, especially for a place to live.
| Measure | New Orleans, LA | Salt Lake City, UT |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 92 | 108 |
| Housing index | 74 | 127 |
| Transportation index | 93 | 89 |
| Food index | 95 | 98 |
| Healthcare index | 92 | 98 |
| Utilities index | 108 | 95 |
| Misc index | 88 | 95 |
| Median home price | $248,000 | $498,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,200/mo | $1,550/mo |
| Average commute | 26 min | 24 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Salt Lake City home with the True Cost Calculator.