Cost of living

The cost of living in LA dramatically differs from that of New York. While LA has a higher median income than NY, its rent prices are significantly lower. In general, a $9,000 standard of living in New York is equal to a $6,200 standard in Los Angeles. Let’s look at some examples. Households, on average, cost around $164 in NYC while in LA it goes up to $137. Even though they both go above the average, NYC is 16% more expensive, while LA is only at 4%. Also, having access to fresh products the whole year, LA wins in this category.

Housing

Real estate prices are similar to the overall cost of living in LA, meaning it’s noticeably more affordable to live in LA. For example, a 1-bedroom apartment in Manhattan can go up to $3,000 per month while similar apartments go for $2,500 with the outer parts where the prices are around $1,800. That said, LA might take the lead on this one as well, considering NYC has smaller apartments for higher prices. In general, housing in LA is around 35% cheaper than in NYC.

Job opportunities

Both cities are striving for success offering various opportunities to grow and make a name for yourself. So much so, you can end up with your star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. LA offers more opportunities in the entertainment industry with an average salary pay of $5,200 monthly. It has more than 240,000 business with more women and minorities owning a business than any other city in the nation. The highest-paying jobs are Cardiologists with an average annual salary of $314,000 and Psychiatrists with an average of $305,000.

Education

With the second largest unified school district, The City of Angels has one of the best education programs worldwide with UCLA (University of California Los Angeles) and USC (University of Southern California) to prove it. Most of the students go to public schools and you can notice how the housing prices go up within the better school district. If you have kids, make sure to check the quality of the schools before you move, since some districts may have good elementary schools but bad high school education.

Traveling

If you live to travel and have fun, The City of Angels is your dream place. It is a lot easier to travel in LA, you just get in your car and drive to Las Vegas, Malibu, Palm Springs, or San Diego. LA is the best place to live if you need an escape from time to time because you don’t have to worry about bad weather or how long a road trip would take.

Getting around

There is a big difference in how people in New York get around versus the people in LA. In NYC, they use buses, subways, taxis, and ride-share services while having a car in LA is a must. It is so much more convenient and it is easier and faster to travel from point A to B. If you’re not a fan of cars, there are options like The WaterBus as well as The Metro Rail E Line and other shuttle services you can find to explore LA. Ubers are also an option, being cheaper than those in NYC.

The outdoors

Los Angeles, having so many beautiful beaches, gorgeous mountains, and deserts in every direction with amazing weather all year, gives numberless opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. You have many chances to enjoy nature, go on hikes, to the beach, ride a bike with your friends, and much more.

Healthy living

With a slower pace of living, the people of LA make their health a priority. Their values lay in mental health and wellness. So much so, Los Angeles is ranked: 3rd highest in feeling spiritually fulfilled and has a high number of non-smokers and residents who exercise at least 90 minutes per week. With so many outdoor opportunities like hiking, road trips, and swimming, the city also has amazing farmer’s markets and more yoga and Pilates studios than any other city.

Entertainment

On top of all these outdoor activities, Los Angeles offers the best entertainment spectrum of movies, nightlife, famous stars, Hollywood, and so much more. It has historic music venues like Hollywood Bowl, The Greek Theatre, and The Wiltern. It is home to the Lakers and most of the movies that are loved by the whole world. Also gathers thousands of people that come from all around the world during Coachella.