City Budget Comparison
Can You Live on $1,500/month?
New York vs London — Budget Breakdown
Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates · April 2026
Feasibility
New York
Likely Insufficient
COL+Rent: 82.5 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo may not cover basic costs in New York.
London
Likely Insufficient
COL+Rent: 72.9 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo may not cover basic costs in London.
Budget Breakdown
| Category | New York | London | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (avg 1BR) | $942 | $906 | +$36 |
| Groceries | $188 | $171 | +$17 |
| Dining Out | $120 | $136 | $16 |
| Transportation | $33 | $46 | $13 |
| Utilities | $76 | $105 | $29 |
| Other / Misc | $141 | $136 | +$5 |
| Total | $1,500 | $1,500 | — |
Purchasing Power
New York
$1,500
per month
London equivalent
$1,325
per month
Only $1,325/mo in London matches $1,500/mo in New York — better value.
Other Budget Levels
FAQ
Can I live in New York on $1,500/month?
Living in New York on $1,500/mo is rated "Likely Insufficient". Budget allocates ~$942 to rent, $188 to groceries, $120 to dining.
Can I live in London on $1,500/month?
In London, $1,500/mo is rated "Likely Insufficient". Allocations: $906 rent, $171 groceries, $136 dining.
Is New York or London cheaper?
London is generally cheaper. COL+Rent: New York 82.5 vs London 72.9 (NYC=100).
What is $1,500/mo in New York worth in London?
$1,500/mo of purchasing power in New York equals ~$1,325/mo in London using COL adjustment.