Definition of "Cost of living"

The definition of cost of living is the amount of money you need to have in order to sustain a certain lifestyle. The cost of living refers to the amount of money you spend on housing, food, gas, and other items. It is an easy way to measure a person's standard of living and cost of living estimates allow for comparison between locations.

Cost of living and lifestyle

The cost of living is an index. A numerical value that shows you if your expenses are high or low. This makes it possible to compare the cost of living between cities, states or countries. The cost of living is highly determined by the area you live in, it’s economy, the job market, and others.

If a city has a high cost of living we consider it an expensive city. On the other end, a city with a low cost of living is a more affordable city. This classification is possible at a larger scale, therefore, counties, states, and nations have a cost of living associated with them.

The standard of living is also impacted by a person’s income. A high income in a city with a low cost of living offers that person a comfortable lifestyle. On the other hand, expensive cities with a high cost of living, means those common items, as well as payments, are going to be higher. That would require a higher salary if you want to sustain the standard of living in an expensive city.

image of a real estate dictionary page

Have a question or comment?

We're here to help.

*** Your email address will remain confidential.
 

 

Popular Real Estate Terms

Payment of the minimum tax by using legal tax planning opportunities such as estate planning. The use of tax avoidance strategies is a sound approach to retaining cash flow. On the other ...

A Construction method of using twice the number of framing members to provide additional structural strength. ...

A void property is a real estate property that is immediately available for new owners or renters as it is vacated. Void real estate properties can be occupied at a short notice as no ...

Right to property depends on some occurrence. ...

(1) Paved roadway constructed above lowlands such as a swamp. (2) Roadway in ancient Egypt connecting the valley temple with a pyramid. ...

Violating a law, commitment, duty, or obligation through commission or omission. The responsibilities of an agreement or guarantee are not met. ...

Roof with one side that is at a sloped angle. ...

Some real estate sales require court confirmation of purchase to protect heirs and debtors from financial wrongs. These sellers have to sell their property due to unique circumstances. They ...

Houses attached by either side of the same wall. ...

Popular Real Estate Questions