Quick answer
Overall prices in the Los Angeles, CA metro were 113.6 vs 108.9 in Washington, DC in 2024 (US = 100), so Los Angeles is 4.3% more expensive than Washington; housing rents differ by 13% (170.4 vs 151.1). A $75,000 income in Los Angeles buys about what $71,908 buys in Washington, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Los Angeles | Washington | Los Angeles vs Washington |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 113.6 | 108.9 | +4.3% |
| Goods | 106.6 | 104.8 | +1.7% |
| Housing (rents) | 170.4 | 151.1 | +12.8% |
| Utilities | 158.6 | 106.7 | +48.6% |
| Other services | 104.4 | 102.3 | +2.0% |
| All items, 2008 | 113.3 | 114.8 | -1.3% |
| $50,000 in Los Angeles equals in Washington | $47,939 | ||
| $100,000 in Los Angeles equals in Washington | $95,877 | ||
| $150,000 in Los Angeles equals in Washington | $143,816 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.