salaryNew Orleans is 11% cheaperBased on official 2024 price levels from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
I need in New Orleans to live the same way.
🏠 Rent per month
$1,983
$1,508
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,622
$1,391
💵 Families earn per year
$84,017
$61,077
🔑 Buying a house
$334,100
$315,700
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
103.6
92.6
🏛️ Property tax per year
$4,943
$2,606
⚡ Electric bill per month
$90
$196
👥 People living there
2,711,226
371,853
Commute to work
33.1 min
22.6 min
College degree
44.3%
42.4%
Own their home
46%
51.2%
Below poverty line
16.8%
22.6%
Unemployment
8%
7.5%
Bottom line
- Pick Chicago for higher incomes, a more educated workforce, less poverty.
- Pick New Orleans for lower rent, cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, cheaper homes and 2 more.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Chicago | New Orleans | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Firefighter | $82,820 | $37,250 | -55% in New Orleans |
| Police Officer | $107,810 | $48,970 | -55% in New Orleans |
| Server (Waiter/Waitress) | $31,200 | $16,640 | -47% in New Orleans |
| Plumber | $103,380 | $62,450 | -40% in New Orleans |
| Electrician | $102,350 | $62,490 | -39% in New Orleans |
| Carpenter | $80,440 | $50,130 | -38% in New Orleans |
| Nursing Assistant | $46,940 | $34,320 | -27% in New Orleans |
| Lawyer | $165,660 | $121,290 | -27% in New Orleans |
Frequently asked questions
Is Chicago or New Orleans cheaper to live in?
New Orleans is about 11% cheaper overall. Rent is $1,508 a month there versus $1,983 in Chicago.
What salary do I need in New Orleans to match $60,000 in Chicago?
About $53,630 a year gives the same standard of living in New Orleans.
Where do people earn more, Chicago or New Orleans?
The typical household earns $84,017 in Chicago and $61,077 in New Orleans, 38% more in Chicago.