Your $75,000 salary in Dallas, Texas has very different purchasing power than the same salary in San Francisco. Understanding cost of living differences is crucial when considering a move, negotiating a salary, or choosing where to start your career.
Most Expensive US Cities in 2026
Based on cost of living indices (with 100 being the US average): San Francisco (187), New York City (170), Boston (152), Washington DC (145), Seattle (140), and Los Angeles (135). In San Francisco, you need to earn $140,000 to have the same purchasing power as $75,000 in an average US city.
Most Affordable US Cities
Oklahoma City (82), San Antonio (85), Nashville (88), Charlotte (90), Houston (93), and Dallas (95) all come in below the national average. Your money goes 15-20% further in these cities compared to the national average.
What Drives Cost of Living Differences?
Housing is by far the biggest factor, accounting for 30-50% of the difference between expensive and affordable cities. A median home in San Francisco costs $1.3 million vs $290,000 in San Antonio. Other factors include groceries (10-20% variation), transportation, healthcare, and local taxes.