City Budget Comparison
Can You Live on $1,500/month?
London vs New York — Budget Breakdown
Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates · April 2026
Feasibility
London
Likely Insufficient
COL+Rent: 72.9 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo may not cover basic costs in London.
New York
Likely Insufficient
COL+Rent: 82.5 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo may not cover basic costs in New York.
Budget Breakdown
| Category | London | New York | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (avg 1BR) | $906 | $942 | $36 |
| Groceries | $171 | $188 | $17 |
| Dining Out | $136 | $120 | +$16 |
| Transportation | $46 | $33 | +$13 |
| Utilities | $105 | $76 | +$29 |
| Other / Misc | $136 | $141 | $5 |
| Total | $1,500 | $1,500 | — |
Purchasing Power
London
$1,500
per month
New York equivalent
$1,698
per month
You'd need $1,698/mo in New York to match $1,500/mo in London.
Other Budget Levels
FAQ
Can I live in London on $1,500/month?
Living in London on $1,500/mo is rated "Likely Insufficient". Budget allocates ~$906 to rent, $171 to groceries, $136 to dining.
Can I live in New York on $1,500/month?
In New York, $1,500/mo is rated "Likely Insufficient". Allocations: $942 rent, $188 groceries, $120 dining.
Is London or New York cheaper?
London is generally cheaper. COL+Rent: London 72.9 vs New York 82.5 (NYC=100).
What is $1,500/mo in London worth in New York?
$1,500/mo of purchasing power in London equals ~$1,698/mo in New York using COL adjustment.