About Our Cost of Living Data & Methodology
How we source, structure, and update the numbers behind every calculator on this site.
What we measure
Every city in our dataset has five relative cost indices — rent, groceries, dining out, transport, and utilities — benchmarked against New York City at 100. We also track median salary, minimum wage, childcare and healthcare costs, and year-over-year inflation.
How the index works
An index value of 50 means a city is roughly half as expensive in that category as New York. A value of 150 means roughly 1.5x more expensive. This lets you compare any two cities on a consistent scale, whether they're both in the US or on opposite sides of the world.
Where the numbers come from
Our figures are representative estimates compiled from public cost-of-living data sources and reviewed periodically. They're designed for quick, directional comparisons — useful for a first pass on a relocation decision, salary negotiation, or budgeting exercise, not as a substitute for a professional cost-of-living survey or a real quote from a moving company.
Tax and salary calculators
Our state income tax, take-home pay, retirement, and student loan tools use simplified, fully disclosed formulas (a flat effective tax rate, a standard FICA estimate, a 25x retirement rule, a fixed-rate loan amortization). These are illustrative planning tools, not tax or financial advice — always confirm with a licensed professional before making major decisions.
How often we update
We review the dataset periodically as living costs shift globally. If you spot something that looks stale or inaccurate, we welcome feedback.