Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
48% cheaper
Wichita is 48% more affordable than Jersey City. A $75,000 salary in Jersey City is equivalent to $38,889 in Wichita.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New Jersey salaries · Kansas salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Jersey City has a housing index of 249 while Wichita sits at 62 (national average = 100). The median home in Jersey City costs $540,000 compared to $165,000 in Wichita, a difference of $375,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,600 in Jersey City versus $900 in Wichita.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Jersey City scores 105 while Wichita scores 95. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Jersey City (106) are higher than Wichita (92).
Median household income in Jersey City is $80,820 compared to $52,428 in Wichita. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Wichita.
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