Los AngelesvsSydney
Overall
💰+2.3%
Los Angeles is 2.3%more expensive
Rent
🏠0.0%
Housing is 0.0% same
Dining
🍽️+5.9%
Restaurants 5.9% pricier
Groceries
🛒-3.4%
Food shopping 3.4% less
Comparing the cost of living between Los Angeles, United States and Sydney, Australia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Los Angeles is more expensive than Sydney by approximately 2.3%. 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 similar than in Sydney. A one-bedroom apartment in Los Angeles's city center costs around $2,800, while the same in Sydney is approximately A$3,000.
Dining out in Los Angeles costs about the same compared to Sydney. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs $18 in Los Angeles versus A$20 in Sydney.
Public transportation in Los Angeles is more affordable, with monthly passes at $100 compared to A$200 in Sydney.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Los Angeles can expect to spend approximately $659 per month (excluding rent), while in Sydney, the same lifestyle would cost around A$804. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about $2,305 monthly in Los Angeles versus A$2,814 in Sydney. 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 Sydney, 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 Sydney 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
Sydney
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Los Angeles more expensive than Sydney?
The cost of living in Los Angeles and Sydney 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 Sydney?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.0x of your Sydney salary when living in Los Angeles. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Sydney, you'd need about $51,136 in Los Angeles for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Los Angeles and Sydney?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 6%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Los Angeles offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Sydney provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Los Angeles if you prioritize earning potential, or Sydney for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Los Angeles vs Sydney?
In Los Angeles, a single person needs approximately $2,859 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about $6,305. In Sydney, these figures are A$3,004 for singles and A$6,614 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Los Angeles and Sydney in 2025 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 Sydney to maintain your lifestyle from Los Angeles
Calculate Salary Equivalence