Cost of Living Index

Definition

The Cost of Living Index compares the cost of everyday goods and services across different areas of the UK. It typically includes spending on housing, food, transport, utilities and healthcare. Unlike the Consumer Prices Index (CPI), which measures inflation over time, the Cost of Living Index shows how affordable a place is in comparison to the national average.

Also known as

Living costs index, Inflation-adjusted cost of living

Relevance to OCSI

We use the Cost of Living Index to analyse regional economic disparities, especially in relation to poverty, income deprivation and community resilience. It provides insight into household financial pressures and supports policy development and local interventions in areas with higher living costs.

Related links and examples


Author


Featured posts

Decorative image with the text "indices of deprivation"

Indices of Deprivation

What are the English Indices of Deprivation? A beginner’s guide to the IMD

The English Indices of Deprivation (IoD) is a suite of measures that…
More

Decorative image with the text "OCSI news"

Uncategorized

OCSI research used to target up to £5 billion of investment through the Pride in Place Programme

The government’s Pride in Place Strategy sets out an ambitious long-term plan…
More

Decorative image with the text "indices of deprivation"

Indices of Deprivation

English Indices of Deprivation 2025 release date

We are excited to announce that the English Indices of Deprivation 2025…
More

Case studies
Data analysis
Featured
Indices of Deprivation
left behind neighbourhoods
OCSI news
Research Projects
Resources and data
Uncategorized