Cost of Living Comparison 2026
Data: HUD rent estimates, BLS cost of living
You'd spend $242/month more in New Orleans, LA
$150.0K in your current city equals $152.9K in New Orleans, LA
Based on monthly living costs (rent, groceries, utilities, transport, healthcare). Home purchase prices shown separately below.
Lexington-Fayette urban county, KY
New Orleans, LA
Lexington-Fayette urban county, KY
The Bluegrass State
Located in Kentucky, this city has a population of 320K residents.
New Orleans, LA
The Pelican State
Located in Louisiana, this city has a population of 384K residents.
Cost Breakdown by Category
Annual spending: Lexington-Fayette urban county, KY vs New Orleans, LA
| Category | Lexington-Fayette urban county, KY | New Orleans, LA | Difference | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Other | $1,641/mo | $1,892/mo | ↑ $251more | 15.3% |
Healthcare | $551/mo | $471/mo | ↓ $80.54less | 14.6% |
Housing | $2,339/mo | $2,391/mo | ↑ $51.97more | 2.2% |
Transportation | $1,216/mo | $1,243/mo | ↑ $27.32more | 2.2% |
All Utilities | $464/mo | $486/mo | ↑ $21.86more | 4.7% |
Groceries | $959/mo | $969/mo | ↑ $9.99more | 1.0% |
🏠Rent Comparison
1BR range: $1,120–$1,680/mo
💡 Note: Rent prices are based on HUD Fair Market Rent data and represent median costs. Actual prices vary by neighborhood, amenities, and condition. Source: HUD Small Area Fair Market Rents FY2026.
Home Values
Source: Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI), January 2026
Tax Comparison
Annual tax burden comparison at $150.0K salary
Lexington-Fayette urban county, KY
New Orleans, LA
Additional Tax Information
Lexington-Fayette urban county, KY Tax Rates
New Orleans, LA Tax Rates
💡 Note: Tax calculations are estimates based on 2024/2025 tax brackets for single filers with standard deduction. Actual taxes may vary based on filing status, deductions, credits, and local variations.
Environment
💰 See how taxes change too — compare take-home pay between Kentucky and Louisiana on TaxTakeHome.com
Where your money goes further
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