City Budget Comparison
Can You Live on $1,500/month?
Gothenburg vs Seattle — Budget Breakdown
Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates · April 2026
Feasibility
Gothenburg
Moderate
COL+Rent: 37 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo covers essentials with some leisure in Gothenburg.
Seattle
Likely Insufficient
COL+Rent: 67.7 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo may not cover basic costs in Seattle.
Budget Breakdown
| Category | Gothenburg | Seattle | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (avg 1BR) | $763 | $932 | $169 |
| Groceries | $283 | $193 | +$90 |
| Dining Out | $175 | $123 | +$52 |
| Transportation | $78 | $34 | +$44 |
| Utilities | $86 | $78 | +$8 |
| Other / Misc | $115 | $140 | $25 |
| Total | $1,500 | $1,500 | — |
Purchasing Power
Gothenburg
$1,500
per month
Seattle equivalent
$2,745
per month
You'd need $2,745/mo in Seattle to match $1,500/mo in Gothenburg.
Other Budget Levels
FAQ
Can I live in Gothenburg on $1,500/month?
Living in Gothenburg on $1,500/mo is rated "Moderate". Budget allocates ~$763 to rent, $283 to groceries, $175 to dining.
Can I live in Seattle on $1,500/month?
In Seattle, $1,500/mo is rated "Likely Insufficient". Allocations: $932 rent, $193 groceries, $123 dining.
Is Gothenburg or Seattle cheaper?
Gothenburg is generally cheaper. COL+Rent: Gothenburg 37 vs Seattle 67.7 (NYC=100).
What is $1,500/mo in Gothenburg worth in Seattle?
$1,500/mo of purchasing power in Gothenburg equals ~$2,745/mo in Seattle using COL adjustment.