Is Austin more expensive than Los Angeles?

Austin is 25.1% cheaper than Los Angeles overall. Rent is 36.3% lower, groceries 15.2% cheaper, and restaurants 20.2% cheaper.

Which city has better purchasing power, Los Angeles or Austin?

Los Angeles has a purchasing power index of 98.2 while Austin has 167.7 (NYC = 100). Austin offers better purchasing power.

Los Angeles vs Austin: Austin is 25.1% cheaper, rent 36% lower (2026)

Category	🇺🇸 Los Angeles	🇺🇸 Austin	Difference
Cost of Living	75.8	56.8	-25.1%
Rent	67.7	43.1	-36.3%
Groceries	85.0	72.1	-15.2%
Restaurants	102.7	82.0	-20.2%
Purchasing Power	98.2	167.7	+70.8%

Data from March – October 2026 · Cost of living: Numbeo, blended with Expatistan and LivingCost where available. Rent, groceries, restaurants and purchasing power: Numbeo (NYC = 100) · Indices reflect relative costs; absolute prices vary by neighbourhood.

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🇺🇸 Cost of Living in Los Angeles

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🇺🇸 Cost of Living in Austin

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🇺🇸 Should I Move to Los Angeles?

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🇺🇸 Los Angeles vs 🇺🇸 Austin

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