Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
34% cheaper
Springfield is 34% more affordable than Jersey City. A $75,000 salary in Jersey City is equivalent to $49,537 in Springfield.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New Jersey salaries · Massachusetts salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Jersey City has a housing index of 249 while Springfield sits at 106 (national average = 100). The median home in Jersey City costs $540,000 compared to $230,000 in Springfield, a difference of $310,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,600 in Jersey City versus $1,200 in Springfield.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Jersey City scores 105 while Springfield scores 104. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Jersey City (106) are lower than Springfield (114).
Median household income in Jersey City is $80,820 compared to $41,612 in Springfield. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Springfield.
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