Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
35% cheaper
Washington is 35% more affordable than Manhattan. A $75,000 salary in Manhattan is equivalent to $48,511 in Washington.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New York salaries · District of Columbia salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Manhattan has a housing index of 421 while Washington sits at 226 (national average = 100). The median home in Manhattan costs $1,150,000 compared to $580,000 in Washington, a difference of $570,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $4,200 in Manhattan versus $2,300 in Washington.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Manhattan scores 115 while Washington scores 108.
Healthcare costs in Manhattan (112) are higher than Washington (105).
Median household income in Manhattan is $93,651 compared to $90,842 in Washington. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Washington.
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