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

Among voter concerns in the upcoming election, 18% listed the economy, the cost of living and inflation as their biggest worry, followed by election integrity, fraud and interference at 17% of respondents. — Itzel Luna, Los Angeles Times, 15 Oct. 2026

Voters have consistently said that the cost of living is a major concern heading into the elections. — ABC News, 15 Oct. 2026

Many cite inflation, the rising cost of living, and healthcare costs as barriers to spending on entertainment in retirement. — Megan Cerullo, CBS News, 15 Oct. 2026

While the cost of living continues to surge, political tensions rise and times are challenging in both the United Kingdom and the US, Teti hopes that his bars can provide people with an escape. — Thomas Schlachter, CNN Money, 14 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