Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
23% cheaper
San Jose is 23% more affordable than Manhattan. A $75,000 salary in Manhattan is equivalent to $58,085 in San Jose.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New York salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Manhattan has a housing index of 421 while San Jose sits at 308 (national average = 100). The median home in Manhattan costs $1,150,000 compared to $1,300,000 in San Jose, a difference of $150,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $4,200 in Manhattan versus $3,100 in San Jose.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Manhattan scores 115 while San Jose scores 110.
Healthcare costs in Manhattan (112) match San Jose (112).
Median household income in Manhattan is $93,651 compared to $117,324 in San Jose. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in San Jose.
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