Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
28% cheaper
Tacoma is 28% more affordable than Jersey City. A $75,000 salary in Jersey City is equivalent to $54,167 in Tacoma.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New Jersey salaries · Washington salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Jersey City has a housing index of 249 while Tacoma sits at 140 (national average = 100). The median home in Jersey City costs $540,000 compared to $400,000 in Tacoma, a difference of $140,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,600 in Jersey City versus $1,600 in Tacoma.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Jersey City scores 105 while Tacoma scores 105. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Jersey City (106) match Tacoma (106). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Jersey City is $80,820 compared to $58,974 in Tacoma. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Tacoma.
Amazon affiliate links