Los AngelesvsSeattle
Overall
💰+1.2%
Los Angeles is 1.2%more expensive
Rent
🏠-7.7%
Housing is 7.7% lower
Dining
🍽️0.0%
Restaurants 0.0% same
Groceries
🛒-3.5%
Food shopping 3.5% less
Comparing the cost of living between Los Angeles, United States and Seattle, United States reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2026. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Los Angeles is more expensive than Seattle by approximately 1.2%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Los Angeles are higher than in Seattle by 8%. A one-bedroom apartment in Los Angeles's city center costs around $2,886, while the same in Seattle is approximately $2,518.
Dining out in Los Angeles costs about the same compared to Seattle. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs $22 in Los Angeles versus $22 in Seattle.
Public transportation in Los Angeles is more expensive, with monthly passes at $100 compared to $99 in Seattle.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Los Angeles can expect to spend approximately $736 per month (excluding rent), while in Seattle, the same lifestyle would cost around $735. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about $2,577 monthly in Los Angeles versus $2,572 in Seattle. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Los Angeles to Seattle, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Seattle to Los Angeles requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Los Angeles
Seattle
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Los Angeles more expensive than Seattle?
The cost of living in Los Angeles and Seattle is relatively similar, with only minor differences in specific categories. Your actual expenses will depend on your lifestyle choices.
How much salary do I need in Los Angeles compared to Seattle?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.0x of your Seattle salary when living in Los Angeles. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Seattle, you'd need about $50,588 in Los Angeles for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Los Angeles and Seattle?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 8%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show smaller variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Seattle offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Seattle provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Los Angeles if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Seattle for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Los Angeles vs Seattle?
In Los Angeles, a single person needs approximately $2,992 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about $6,677. In Seattle, these figures are $2,723 for singles and $5,922 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Los Angeles and Seattle in 2026 shows moderate differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Seattle to maintain your lifestyle from Los Angeles
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