City Budget Comparison
Can You Live on $1,500/month?
Seattle vs Gothenburg — Budget Breakdown
Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates · April 2026
Feasibility
Seattle
Likely Insufficient
COL+Rent: 67.7 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo may not cover basic costs in Seattle.
Gothenburg
Moderate
COL+Rent: 37 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo covers essentials with some leisure in Gothenburg.
Budget Breakdown
| Category | Seattle | Gothenburg | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (avg 1BR) | $932 | $763 | +$169 |
| Groceries | $193 | $283 | $90 |
| Dining Out | $123 | $175 | $52 |
| Transportation | $34 | $78 | $44 |
| Utilities | $78 | $86 | $8 |
| Other / Misc | $140 | $115 | +$25 |
| Total | $1,500 | $1,500 | — |
Purchasing Power
Seattle
$1,500
per month
Gothenburg equivalent
$820
per month
Only $820/mo in Gothenburg matches $1,500/mo in Seattle — better value.
Other Budget Levels
FAQ
Can I live in Seattle on $1,500/month?
Living in Seattle on $1,500/mo is rated "Likely Insufficient". Budget allocates ~$932 to rent, $193 to groceries, $123 to dining.
Can I live in Gothenburg on $1,500/month?
In Gothenburg, $1,500/mo is rated "Moderate". Allocations: $763 rent, $283 groceries, $175 dining.
Is Seattle or Gothenburg cheaper?
Gothenburg is generally cheaper. COL+Rent: Seattle 67.7 vs Gothenburg 37 (NYC=100).
What is $1,500/mo in Seattle worth in Gothenburg?
$1,500/mo of purchasing power in Seattle equals ~$820/mo in Gothenburg using COL adjustment.