Verdict: Los Angeles is 19% cheaper — saving you $852/month ($10,224/year)
New York ($4,587/mo)
Los Angeles ($3,735/mo)
1BR Apartment (Center)
$3200
$2500
1BR Apartment (Outside)
$2000
$1700
Cheap Meal
$20
$18
Mid-Range Meal
$50
$45
Transit Pass
$127
$100
Utilities
$150
$140
Internet
$60
$55
Groceries
$450
$400
CategoryNew YorkLos AngelesDifference
1BR Apartment (Center)$3200$2500+$700
1BR Apartment (Outside)$2000$1700+$300
Cheap Meal$20$18+$2
Mid-Range Meal$50$45+$5
Transit Pass$127$100+$27
Utilities$150$140+$10
Internet$60$55+$5
Groceries$450$400+$50
Total Estimated$4,587$3,735$852 (19%)

Safety Index

New York: 55/100

Los Angeles: 50/100

Average Monthly Salary

New York: $5,500

Los Angeles: $5,000

Relocating to Los Angeles?

Save on your move with these essential services for expats and remote workers.

Full New York Guide
Costs, tips & more →
Full Los Angeles Guide
Costs, tips & more →

More Comparisons

new york vs tokyo
Japan
$1,980/mo
new york vs osaka
Japan
$1,598/mo
los angeles vs fukuoka
Japan
$1,280/mo
los angeles vs sapporo
Japan
$1,195/mo

Frequently Asked Questions

Is New York cheaper than Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is approximately 19% cheaper.New York costs around $4,587/month vs Los Angeles at $3,735/month. That is a saving of $852/month ($10,224/year).

Which city has cheaper rent — New York or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles has cheaper rent.New York charges $3200/month for a city-center 1BR, while Los Angeles is $2500/month.

Which city is safer — New York or Los Angeles?

New York is safer, with a safety index of 55/100 vs 50/100.