Lafayette, CA, has a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average. The cost of living index for Lafayette stands at 150, which is 50% higher than the national average of 100. This increase is largely due to the housing index, which is 200% of the average, making it the most significant factor in Lafayette's elevated cost of living.
Lafayette, CA, has a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. The housing index in Lafayette stands at 300, indicating that housing costs are three times the national average. This significant increase means that potential residents will need to budget substantially more for housing than the average American.
Other expenses in Lafayette also exceed the national average. For instance, groceries cost 20% more, with an index of 120. Utilities are 15% higher, at 115, while transportation costs are 10% above the average, with an index of 110. Healthcare costs are slightly higher, at 5% above the national average, with an index of 105. Miscellaneous expenses, such as entertainment and personal care, are 30% higher, with an index of 130. These figures collectively show that Lafayette's cost of living is notably higher across various categories.