Los Angeles vs Seattle

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Seattle is roughly 13% more affordable than Los Angeles (index 144 vs 166, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Seattle
More affordable overall
13% cheaper than Los Angeles · Cost index: 144 vs 166

Head-to-Head Stats

166Cost Index144
3,834Median Income /mo6,429
40Safety Index40
25Income Tax %0
242Internet (Mbps)150
300Coworking /mo350

Price Breakdown

Los AngelesCategorySeattle
$2,839/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
17% ← cheaper
$2,365/month
$1.6/liter
Meal for One
67% cheaper →
$4.84/liter
$16/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
11% cheaper →
$18/meal
$122/month
Monthly Transit Pass
19% ← cheaper
$99/month
$245/month
Utilities (Monthly)
15% ← cheaper
$208/month
$164/visit
Doctor Visit
27% ← cheaper
$120/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Los Angeles

Internet242 Mbps
Coworking$300/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability69/100

Seattle

Internet150 Mbps
Coworking$350/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability72/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Los Angeles cheaper than Seattle?

Seattle is cheaper than Los Angeles. Seattle has a cost of living index of 144/100 compared to 166/100 for Los Angeles, making it roughly 13% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Seattle than Los Angeles?

Seattle is approximately 13% cheaper than Los Angeles based on cost index scores (144 vs 166, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Los Angeles could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,602/month in Seattle.

What is the rent comparison between Los Angeles and Seattle?

In Los Angeles, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $2,839/month. In Seattle, the equivalent is around $2,365/month.

Which city is better for digital nomads — Los Angeles or Seattle?

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Los Angeles offers 242 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$300/month. Seattle offers 150 Mbps and coworking at ~$350/month. Seattle has a cost advantage of 13%.

What is the average income in Los Angeles vs Seattle?

The median net monthly salary in Los Angeles is approximately $3,834 USD, compared to $6,429 USD in Seattle.

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