Cost of Living Calculator
Compare salaries between cities and understand purchasing power changes.
Last updated: 2025-02-10
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TurboTax (2026)
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Overview
The cost of living calculator compares purchasing power between two cities by translating a salary from one market into its equivalent in another. It helps you gauge whether an offer or relocation keeps your lifestyle intact.
Use the calculator alongside salary and tax estimates to see the full compensation picture before you move or negotiate.
How to Interpret the Results
The adjusted salary shows what you would need to earn in the destination city to maintain equivalent purchasing power. Use the ratio to understand how much more or less expensive the new market is.
Pair the result with take-home calculations to see if taxes and local prices combine to improve or reduce your net lifestyle.
Methodology
Calculations use indexed cost-of-living data across major categories such as housing, transportation, and groceries. The index ratio between two cities scales the input salary to an equivalent amount.
Results are directional and should be combined with taxes, benefits, and housing specifics for a complete relocation plan.
Ads help keep these calculators free and do not influence the results or recommendations.
FAQ
What expenses are included in the cost-of-living index?
The index reflects major categories like housing, groceries, transportation, and utilities.
Does the calculator account for taxes?
No. Use tax calculators alongside the result to estimate after-tax purchasing power.
Can I compare multiple city pairs?
Yes. Select different origin and destination cities to explore other scenarios.