Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
12% cheaper
Oakland is 12% more affordable than New York City. A $75,000 salary in New York City is equivalent to $66,176 in Oakland.
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. New York City has a housing index of 302 while Oakland sits at 264 (national average = 100). The median home in New York City costs $680,000 compared to $780,000 in Oakland, a difference of $100,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $3,200 in New York City versus $2,700 in Oakland.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: New York City scores 109 while Oakland scores 109.
Healthcare costs in New York City (108) are lower than Oakland (113).
Median household income in New York City is $67,046 compared to $73,692 in Oakland. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Oakland.
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