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If you’re thinking about relocating, the cost of living in various cities is an important consideration. A cost of living calculation takes into account the average prices for basic needs such as housing, health care, food, local taxes, and more. Often, the calculations are also tied to average wages locally, as higher wages are needed to afford a higher cost of living. So, whether you’re moving to New Braunfels, TX, or Los Angeles, CA, you’ll want to know how your new city stacks up. Let’s look at how the costs of living compare for several popular cities in the U.S.
Los Angeles, CA
The City of Angels has a cost of living that’s 43% higher than the national average, with housing costs much higher, at 127% more than the national average. This huge city is in high demand, with its beautiful weather and booming entertainment industry, and the demand drives costs higher.
San Diego, CA
Another popular California choice, San Diego boasts world-class attractions and a shared border with Mexico. The robust economy and high desirability of San Diego means that it also has a high cost of living, at 49% above the national average. Housing in San Diego is priced just below Los Angeles, but still much higher than the rest of the country.
Denver, CO
Denver has a long history of attracting young college graduates, with its scenic views and excellent economy. Denver’s cost of living is lower than California, attracting lots of California transplants too. However, the costs are rising, and many people are finding themselves priced out of the area. Denver’s housing and other expenses are all priced well above the national averages.
Albuquerque, NM
This metro area boasts the highest elevation in the United States — but not the highest costs. The cost of living in Albuquerque is 5% lower than the national average, making it an affordable choice. Albuquerque comes in at one of the cheapest metropolitan areas to call home.
Portland, OR
The hip city of the Northwest has an average to high cost of living. While you’re likely to find higher than average costs for housing, food, and health care, utilities are lower than average here, due to the mild year-round climate. The general cost of living is about 29% higher than the national average, here in Portland.
Newport News, VA
The popular East Coast metropolitan area of Newport News, VA, has a rich history and attracts many families with its military ship industry. This little city has a vibrant economy and a cost of living that’s surprisingly close to the national average. Overall, the cost of living sits 1% below national, with housing costs just 2% above the national average.
New Braunfels, TX
If you’re moving to New Braunfels, you’ll be happy to note that the cost of living here is below average for the U.S. At 9% below average, it’s the lowest general cost of living on our list of popular cities. While the utility costs here are slightly above average, most other costs are below national averages, including the housing costs, which are 19% below average.
So, whether you plan on moving to New Braunfels, Portland, Los Angeles, or somewhere else, keep in mind the cost of living calculations and how they compare to other cities.
Resources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Braunfels,_Texas
https://www.vintageoakstexas.com
https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/cost-of-living.asp
https://www.payscale.com/cost-of-living-calculator/California-Los-Angeles
https://www.sandiegorealestatehunter.com/blog/exposed-real-san-diego-cost-living-guide/
https://www.denverpost.com/2018/04/10/denver-cost-of-living-low-income/
https://www.movebuddha.com/blog/moving-to-albuquerque-nm/
https://www.payscale.com/cost-of-living-calculator/New-Mexico-Albuquerque
https://www.payscale.com/cost-of-living-calculator/Oregon-Portland
https://portlandreloguide.com/portlands-cost-of-living/
https://www.payscale.com/cost-of-living-calculator/Texas-New-Braunfels
