Cost of Living in New Orleans, LA
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
107.6
100 = national avg
+7.6 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$47,333
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$111,877
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing138.1
Food92.3
Transportation86.8
Healthcare93.8
Utilities103.0
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$1,113
per month
2 Bedroom
$1,331
per month
The overall cost of living index in New Orleans is 107.6, which is 7.6% above the national average. Housing costs are above the national average at an index of 138.1. A single adult needs to earn approximately $47,333 per year to cover basic expenses.