Cost of Living Calculator
Compare the cost of living between two states and see what salary you'd need to maintain your lifestyle.
How does this cost of living calculator work?
This calculator uses an illustrative cost-of-living index for each state, where 100 represents the US national average. To estimate the salary you'd need in a different state to maintain the same standard of living, we multiply your current salary by the ratio of the target state's index to your current state's index. A higher index means a more expensive state overall (housing, groceries, transportation, and other everyday costs).
Is this figure exact?
No — cost of living varies enormously within a state (a small town and a major city can differ by 50% or more), so treat this as a general, illustrative estimate rather than a precise figure. Use it as a starting point for salary negotiations or relocation planning, and research the specific city or metro area you're considering for a more accurate picture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cost of living index?
A cost of living index compares the relative cost of everyday expenses (housing, groceries, utilities, transportation) between locations. An index of 100 represents the US national average — a state with an index of 130 is roughly 30% more expensive than average, while a state with an index of 85 is roughly 15% cheaper.
What are the cheapest states to live in?
States like Mississippi, Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas, and West Virginia typically rank among the most affordable, with cost of living indexes well below the national average — largely due to lower housing costs.
What are the most expensive states to live in?
Hawaii, Massachusetts, California, and New York are consistently among the most expensive states, driven mainly by high housing costs, especially in and around major metro areas.
How do I calculate the salary I need in a different state?
Multiply your current salary by the target state's cost of living index divided by your current state's index. For example, moving from a state with an index of 90 to one with an index of 135 on a $65,000 salary suggests you'd need about $97,500 to maintain the same standard of living.
Does cost of living include taxes?
This calculator focuses on everyday living costs like housing and groceries, not state income or sales tax rates. Since some states have no income tax while others have high rates, it's worth checking tax differences separately for a fuller comparison.
Why does cost of living vary so much within a state?
Major metro areas typically have much higher housing costs than rural or smaller-city areas in the same state. A statewide index is a helpful starting point, but always research the specific city you're considering for a more accurate estimate.