Is Los Angeles more expensive than Seattle?

Los Angeles is 0.3% cheaper than Seattle overall. Rent is 15.7% higher, groceries 12.0% cheaper, and restaurants 7.2% more expensive.

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

Seattle has a purchasing power index of 157.2 while Los Angeles has 98.2 (NYC = 100). Seattle offers better purchasing power.

Seattle vs Los Angeles: Los Angeles is 0.3% cheaper, rent 16% higher (2026)

Category	🇺🇸 Seattle	🇺🇸 Los Angeles	Difference
Cost of Living	75.7	75.5	-0.3%
Rent	58.5	67.7	+15.7%
Groceries	96.6	85.0	-12.0%
Restaurants	95.8	102.7	+7.2%
Purchasing Power	157.2	98.2	-37.5%

Data from 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.

Explore

🇺🇸 Cost of Living in Seattle

Explore

🇺🇸 Cost of Living in Los Angeles

Explore

🇺🇸 Should I Move to Seattle?

Explore

🇺🇸 Should I Move to Los Angeles?

🇺🇸 Seattle vs 🇺🇸 Los Angeles

Add your salary for a personalized comparison