Use our Cost of Living Calculator to quickly compare everyday expenses across major U.S. cities. The tool estimates how much typical costs—housing, groceries, transportation, utilities, and dining—differ from place to place, then converts that gap into a clear salary equivalency so you can see how far your money goes. It’s built for job negotiations, relocation planning, and remote-work decisions: enter your income and instantly understand which city fits your budget and lifestyle without digging through dozens of listings or spreadsheets.

What is a Cost of Living Calculator?

A Cost of Living Calculator is a simple way to translate prices between cities. Instead of looking at a single bill or rent ad, it combines multiple essentials into one picture of overall affordability. The result helps you answer practical questions like: “Will my current income go further if I move?” or “What salary would I need in another city to maintain a similar lifestyle?”

What does it calculate?

• Category differences: Housing, groceries, transportation, utilities, and dining.
• Weighted total: A combined cost index that reflects everyday spending.
• Salary equivalency: An estimate of the income you’d need in the destination city to keep roughly the same standard of living.

Who should use it?

• Job seekers & remote workers comparing offers across states.
• Families planning a move and building a realistic monthly budget.
• Students & new grads deciding between cities with very different rents.
• Businesses benchmarking compensation by location.

How to read the results

Look at the category breakdown to see what drives the gap (usually housing), then check the total (weighted) line for the overall difference. The salary equivalency line shows the approximate income required in the new city to match your current lifestyle. Use it as a starting point for budgeting and offer negotiations.

What’s not included (and why it matters)

Results are estimates and do not replace neighborhood-level research. Local taxes, debt payments, childcare, healthcare plans, and personal habits can shift your real budget. Treat the calculator as a directional guide and verify with up-to-date local prices.

FAQ

Q1: Is a cost of living calculator accurate?
It’s an informed estimate based on comparative price levels for essential categories. Use it to set expectations, then confirm with current local data.

Q2: What is salary equivalency?
It’s the income you’d likely need in another city to maintain a similar standard of living based on everyday costs.

Q3: Which category affects results the most?
Typically housing. Groceries and dining can also create noticeable differences between cities.

Q4: Can this replace my personal budget?
No. It’s a planning tool. Your budget should add taxes, insurance, debt, childcare, and unique lifestyle choices.

Q5: How should I use the results?
Compare cities, adjust expectations, and use the salary equivalency in offer negotiations or relocation planning.