Frequently Asked Questions
It scales your income by the ratio between two cost-of-living indices. If the target city index is higher, you need more income to maintain the same lifestyle.
An index of 100 is typically used as a baseline. A city at 120 is about 20% more expensive than the baseline, while 90 is about 10% cheaper.
Yes. It provides a quick estimate for equivalent compensation when comparing offers across locations.
No. This model compares price levels only. For total compensation analysis, pair it with tax and salary calculators.
Indices are directional benchmarks. Actual costs vary by neighborhood, household size, commute, and personal spending mix.