Cost Comparison 2025

Washington DCvsLuxembourg

United States
Luxembourg

Overall

💰

-3.4%

Washington DC is 3.4%cheaper

Rent

🏠

0.0%

Housing is 0.0% same

Dining

🍽️

+5.9%

Restaurants 5.9% pricier

Groceries

🛒

-6.8%

Food shopping 6.8% less

Comparing the cost of living between Washington DC, United States and Luxembourg, Luxembourg reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Washington DC is more affordable than Luxembourg by approximately 3.4%. 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 Washington DC are similar than in Luxembourg. A one-bedroom apartment in Washington DC's city center costs around $2,400, while the same in Luxembourg is approximately €2,000.

Dining out in Washington DC costs about the same compared to Luxembourg. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs $20 in Washington DC versus €20 in Luxembourg.

Public transportation in Washington DC is more expensive, with monthly passes at $96 compared to €0 in Luxembourg.

Monthly Budget Breakdown

When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Washington DC can expect to spend approximately $704 per month (excluding rent), while in Luxembourg, the same lifestyle would cost around €600. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about $2,465 monthly in Washington DC versus €2,101 in Luxembourg. 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

Item
Washington DC, United States
Luxembourg, Luxembourg

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
$2,400
€2,000
1BR Outside Center
$1,800
€1,600
3BR City Center
$4,500
€3,800

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
$20
€20
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
$100
€90
Cappuccino
$6
€4
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
$7
€5

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
$1
€1
Bread (500g)
$4
€2
Eggs (12)
$4
€4
Cheese (1kg)
$13
€18

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
$3
€0
Monthly Pass
$96
€0
Taxi Start
$4
€5
Gasoline (1L)
$1
€2

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
$160
€200
Internet (60 Mbps)
$70
€50
Mobile Minute
$0
€0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Luxembourg to Washington DC, 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 Washington DC to Luxembourg 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

Washington DC

Cost of Living Index88
Rent Index75
Purchasing Power Index110

Luxembourg

Cost of Living Index85
Rent Index75
Purchasing Power Index120

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Washington DC more expensive than Luxembourg?

The cost of living in Washington DC and Luxembourg 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 Washington DC compared to Luxembourg?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 97% of your Luxembourg salary when living in Washington DC. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Luxembourg, you'd need about $48,352 in Washington DC for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Washington DC and Luxembourg?

The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 7%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.

Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?

Luxembourg offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Washington DC provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Washington DC if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Luxembourg for better value.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Washington DC vs Luxembourg?

In Washington DC, a single person needs approximately $2,504 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about $5,665. In Luxembourg, these figures are €2,200 for singles and €4,901 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Washington DC and Luxembourg 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 Luxembourg to maintain your lifestyle from Washington DC

Calculate Salary Equivalence

Last updated: 2025-01-28 • Data sourced from multiple providers