cost of living

noun phrase

: the cost of purchasing those goods and services which are included in an accepted standard level of consumption

Examples of cost of living in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Experts cite several other reasons for declining enrollment, including lower birth rates, shifting migration patterns, the region’s high cost of living, and the COVID-19 pandemic. — Lois K. Solomon, Sun Sentinel, 8 Oct. 2026

But voters who turned to him out of frustration with the cost of living are still waiting for relief, and some are growing disillusioned with their choices. — Katherine Doyle, Washington Post, 7 Oct. 2026

Fuel prices in Pakistan have risen by more than 50% since the war between the United States and Iran began earlier this year, adding to pressure on households already struggling with the cost of living. — ABC News, 6 Oct. 2026

The rising cost of living is expected to make the 2026 Prime Big Deal Days sale even more appealing. — Ryley Amond, CNBC, 6 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1796, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for cost of living

• unforgiving
• almsgiving
• caregiving
• forgiving
• misgiving
• nonliving
• reliving
• thanksgiving
• giving
• sieving

Legal Definition

cost of living

cost of liv·​ing

: the cost of purchasing those goods and services which are included in an accepted standard level of consumption