New Orleans vs Seattle: cost of living compared
Seattle is 68% more expensive than New Orleans overall. Seattle (WA) has no state income tax; LA tops out around 4.25%.
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
Moving from New Orleans to Seattle would mean a substantial increase in your overall cost of living. Seattle is significantly more expensive across most categories, with housing being the primary driver of this difference. While some everyday expenses like utilities are roughly similar or even slightly higher in New Orleans, the cumulative effect of higher costs in Seattle makes it a much pricier place to reside.
Housing
Housing costs present a stark contrast. Both buying a home and renting a one-bedroom apartment are vastly more expensive in Seattle compared to New Orleans. New Orleans features a mix of historic and newer homes, often with lower property taxes and insurance costs. Seattle's housing market is characterized by higher prices for both single-family homes and apartments, reflecting its denser urban environment and strong demand.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily spending will also see notable changes. While New Orleans has a state income tax, Seattle does not, which can impact take-home pay. However, transportation, food, and healthcare costs are all significantly higher in Seattle. Utilities are an exception, being slightly more expensive in New Orleans. This means that even without considering housing, routine expenses add up more quickly in Seattle.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, a move involves adjusting to different environments. New Orleans offers a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters, a slower pace, and a car-centric layout with some streetcar options. Seattle experiences a marine west coast climate, known for its mild, rainy weather and distinct seasons, a faster pace, and more extensive public transit options alongside hilly terrain.
Bottom line
For households considering a move, the financial implications are considerable. Seattle demands a much larger budget for housing and most daily expenses, despite the absence of a state income tax. New Orleans offers a significantly more affordable lifestyle overall. Your household budget will need to accommodate a substantial upward adjustment in spending if you choose to relocate to Seattle.
| Measure | New Orleans, LA | Seattle, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 92 | 155 |
| Housing index | 74 | 192 |
| Transportation index | 93 | 123 |
| Food index | 95 | 112 |
| Healthcare index | 92 | 112 |
| Utilities index | 108 | 105 |
| Misc index | 88 | 118 |
| Median home price | $248,000 | $748,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,200/mo | $2,350/mo |
| Average commute | 26 min | 33 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Seattle home with the True Cost Calculator.