Cost of Living in Washington, DC
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
181.6
100 = national avg
+81.6 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$79,912
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$188,883
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing261.5
Food131.2
Transportation122.8
Healthcare125.0
Utilities151.0
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$2,015
per month
2 Bedroom
$2,246
per month
The overall cost of living index in Washington is 181.6, which is 81.6% above the national average. Housing costs are above the national average at an index of 261.5. A single adult needs to earn approximately $79,912 per year to cover basic expenses.