Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
53% cheaper
Providence is 53% more affordable than Manhattan. A $75,000 salary in Manhattan is equivalent to $35,106 in Providence.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New York salaries · Rhode Island salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Manhattan has a housing index of 421 while Providence sits at 118 (national average = 100). The median home in Manhattan costs $1,150,000 compared to $310,000 in Providence, a difference of $840,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $4,200 in Manhattan versus $1,500 in Providence.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Manhattan scores 115 while Providence scores 105.
Healthcare costs in Manhattan (112) match Providence (112).
Median household income in Manhattan is $93,651 compared to $47,012 in Providence. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Providence.
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