Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
50% cheaper
Rochester is 50% more affordable than New York City. A $75,000 salary in New York City is equivalent to $37,701 in Rochester.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New York salaries · New York salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. New York City has a housing index of 302 while Rochester sits at 73 (national average = 100). The median home in New York City costs $680,000 compared to $155,000 in Rochester, a difference of $525,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $3,200 in New York City versus $1,000 in Rochester.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: New York City scores 109 while Rochester scores 101.
Healthcare costs in New York City (108) are higher than Rochester (100).
Median household income in New York City is $67,046 compared to $39,728 in Rochester. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Rochester.
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