Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
56% cheaper
Charleston is 56% more affordable than Brooklyn. A $75,000 salary in Brooklyn is equivalent to $32,692 in Charleston.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New York salaries · West Virginia salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Brooklyn has a housing index of 325 while Charleston sits at 62 (national average = 100). The median home in Brooklyn costs $780,000 compared to $135,000 in Charleston, a difference of $645,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,900 in Brooklyn versus $850 in Charleston.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Brooklyn scores 108 while Charleston scores 97.
Healthcare costs in Brooklyn (108) are higher than Charleston (91).
Median household income in Brooklyn is $65,294 compared to $42,034 in Charleston. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Charleston.
Amazon affiliate links