Cost of Living in Washington D.C.
United States • Pop: 0.7M
Washington D.C. offers government and policy jobs with excellent public transit.
Government hubGreat transitMuseums/cultureHigh education levels
Cost
Index
Index
85
Rent
Index
Index
88
Avg Net Salary
$5,000/mo
Cost Breakdown vs NYC (Index 100)
Overall Cost
85
15% cheaperRent
88
12% cheaperGroceries
95
5% cheaperRestaurants
92
8% cheaperTransport
85
15% cheaperUtilities
100
Same as NYCSalary Equivalence
How much you'd need to earn in Washington D.C. to match a NYC salary
| NYC Salary | Equivalent in Washington D.C. | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| $50,000 | $42,500 | Save $7,500 |
| $75,000 | $63,750 | Save $11,250 |
| $100,000 | $85,000 | Save $15,000 |
| $125,000 | $106,250 | Save $18,750 |
| $150,000 | $127,500 | Save $22,500 |
| $200,000 | $170,000 | Save $30,000 |
Living in Washington D.C.: What to Expect
Washington D.C. has a cost of living index of 85, meaning it is 15% cheaper than NYC in overall living costs.
The average net monthly salary in Washington D.C. is approximately $5,000 ($5,000 when converted to USD).
Cost Breakdown
- Rent: Index of 88
- Groceries: Index of 95
- Restaurants: Index of 92
- Transport: Index of 85
- Utilities: Index of 100
Key highlights: Government hub, Great transit, Museums/culture, High education levels.
Use our US salary calculator to see your take-home pay, or compare with other cities.