Quick answer
Overall prices in the Washington, DC metro were 108.9 vs 92.6 in New Orleans, LA in 2024 (US = 100), so Washington is 17.6% more expensive than New Orleans; housing rents differ by 76% (151.1 vs 86.0). A $75,000 income in Washington buys about what $63,781 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) | Washington | New Orleans | Washington vs New Orleans |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 108.9 | 92.6 | +17.6% |
| Goods | 104.8 | 93.7 | +11.9% |
| Housing (rents) | 151.1 | 86.0 | +75.7% |
| Utilities | 106.7 | 71.2 | +49.8% |
| Other services | 102.3 | 95.7 | +6.9% |
| All items, 2008 | 114.8 | 98.2 | +16.8% |
| $50,000 in Washington equals in New Orleans | $42,521 | ||
| $100,000 in Washington equals in New Orleans | $85,042 | ||
| $150,000 in Washington equals in New Orleans | $127,563 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.