Cost of Living Comparison 2026
Data: HUD rent estimates, BLS cost of living
You'd save $77.32/month moving to New Orleans, LA
$150.0K in your current city equals $149.1K in New Orleans, LA
Based on monthly living costs (rent, groceries, utilities, transport, healthcare). Home purchase prices shown separately below.
Raleigh, NC
New Orleans, LA
Raleigh, NC
The Tar Heel State
Notable Facts
- •Research Triangle
- •State capital
- •Major university town
Major Industries
New Orleans, LA
The Pelican State
Located in Louisiana, this city has a population of 384K residents.
Cost Breakdown by Category
Annual spending: Raleigh, NC vs New Orleans, LA
| Category | Raleigh, NC | New Orleans, LA | Difference | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Other | $1,707/mo | $1,892/mo | ↑ $184more | 10.8% |
Healthcare | $601/mo | $471/mo | ↓ $130less | 21.6% |
Housing | $2,469/mo | $2,391/mo | ↓ $77.96less | 3.2% |
All Utilities | $546/mo | $486/mo | ↓ $60.11less | 11.0% |
Transportation | $1,284/mo | $1,243/mo | ↓ $40.98less | 3.2% |
Groceries | $959/mo | $969/mo | ↑ $9.99more | 1.0% |
🏠Rent Comparison
1BR range: $1,400–$1,880/mo
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
Homes in New Orleans are 56% less expensive than Raleigh
Source: Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI), January 2026
Tax Comparison
Annual tax burden comparison at $150.0K salary
Raleigh, NC
New Orleans, LA
Additional Tax Information
Raleigh, NC 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 North Carolina and Louisiana on TaxTakeHome.com
Where your money goes further
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Similar cost to New Orleans, LA
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