City comparison
New York vs London Cost of Living
Based on current benchmark indexes, London is estimated to be 12.9% less expensive than New York overall. Rent differs by -37.6%.
Move planning summary
If your monthly income is 5,000 in New York, the comparable income signal for London is about 4,355 before exchange-rate and tax differences.
Transport changes by +19.4% and utilities change by +9.7% based on the current benchmarks. Treat these as planning signals, then verify neighborhood-level rent and local transit passes.
Run your own numbersCost comparison table
| Category | New York | London |
|---|---|---|
| Cost index | 100 | 87.1 |
| Rent index | 100 | 62.4 |
| Groceries index | 100 | 70 |
| Restaurant index | 100 | 87.2 |
| 1BR rent | $3,174 | £1,620 |
| Monthly transport | $144 | £172 |
| Monthly utilities | $237 | £260 |
Data quality
Both cities are currently marked medium confidence. The index data is suitable for early comparison, while absolute rent and utility values should be treated as planning benchmarks.
FAQ
Is London more expensive than New York?
In this sample, London is 12.9% less expensive than New York by overall cost index.
How much income would I need in London?
As a simple index-based example, 5,000 in New York maps to about 4,355 in London, before exchange rates and taxes.
Does this comparison convert currencies?
No. The calculator keeps your own inputs in one currency and applies relative cost indexes. Currency conversion is a future feature.
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