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

• ONS – Inflation & Price Indices
• Cost of Living Vulnerable Households Indicator

Featured posts

Resources and data

Pride in Place Explorer for Wales

What is the Pride in Place Explorer for Wales? The Pride in…
More

Resources and data

Pride in Place Explorer for Scotland

What is the Pride in Place Explorer for Scotland? The Pride in…
More

Resources and data

Interactive Welsh Index of Multiple Deprivation 2025 (WIMD) maps

The Welsh Index of Multiple Deprivation 2025 (WIMD 2025) has now been…
More