Cost of living
How prices differ across the US, measured with BEA Regional Price Parities and other official data.
Cheapest Metro Areas in the US (by Official Price Data)
Monroe, LA has the lowest BEA price level of 387 US metros (83.6 in 2024). On $75,000, McAllen, TX leaves a single renter the most after taxes: $33,353.
Cost of Living for a Family of Four in the US
A family of four on $120,000 keeps $38,211 a year in Nashville but ends $5,206 short in New York after 2026 taxes, rent, childcare and other costs.
Cost of Living for a Single Person in the US by City
A single adult on $75,000 keeps $24,665 a year in Austin and $1,403 in New York after 2026 taxes and living costs. Budgets for 8 major metros.
Cost-of-Living Index Explained: Why Taxes Matter
Price indexes leave out income tax. Portland, OR is cheaper than Seattle on BEA prices, but above about $109,000 a single earner keeps more in Seattle.
How Much Do Groceries Cost Per Month? USDA Food Plans
USDA's August 2026 food plans: $1,023.70 a month (Thrifty) to $1,678.70 (Liberal) for a family of four with children 6–8 and 9–11. Costs by household.
How Much More Expensive Is California Than Texas?
A single renter on $85,000 keeps $16,929 more a year in Dallas than in Los Angeles after 2026 taxes and costs. Dallas pay that matches LA: $61,629.
Most Expensive Metro Areas in the US (by Official Price Data)
San Francisco has the highest BEA price level of 387 US metros (115.6 in 2024). A single renter needs $75,260 there just to break even after 2026 taxes.
What Are Regional Price Parities?
BEA Regional Price Parities compare price levels across states and metros (US = 100). For 2024, San Francisco is highest at 115.6 and Monroe, LA lowest at 83.6.