Quick answer
Overall prices in the San Francisco, CA metro were 115.6 vs 92.6 in New Orleans, LA in 2024 (US = 100), so San Francisco is 24.9% more expensive than New Orleans; housing rents differ by 126% (194.7 vs 86.0). A $75,000 income in San Francisco buys about what $60,069 buys in New Orleans, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | San Francisco | New Orleans | San Francisco vs New Orleans |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 115.6 | 92.6 | +24.9% |
| Goods | 108.5 | 93.7 | +15.8% |
| Housing (rents) | 194.7 | 86.0 | +126.4% |
| Utilities | 172.6 | 71.2 | +142.3% |
| Other services | 106.2 | 95.7 | +11.0% |
| All items, 2008 | 119.1 | 98.2 | +21.2% |
| $50,000 in San Francisco equals in New Orleans | $40,046 | ||
| $100,000 in San Francisco equals in New Orleans | $80,092 | ||
| $150,000 in San Francisco equals in New Orleans | $120,138 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.