Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
24% cheaper
New Orleans is 24% more affordable than Miami. A $75,000 salary in Miami is equivalent to $57,283 in New Orleans.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Florida salaries · Louisiana salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Miami has a housing index of 172 while New Orleans sits at 95 (national average = 100). The median home in Miami costs $450,000 compared to $245,000 in New Orleans, a difference of $205,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,200 in Miami versus $1,200 in New Orleans.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Miami scores 108 while New Orleans scores 99.
Healthcare costs in Miami (99) are higher than New Orleans (94). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Miami is $44,268 compared to $43,258 in New Orleans. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in New Orleans.
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