Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
16% cheaper
Stamford is 16% more affordable than New York City. A $75,000 salary in New York City is equivalent to $63,369 in Stamford.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New York salaries · Connecticut salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. New York City has a housing index of 302 while Stamford sits at 232 (national average = 100). The median home in New York City costs $680,000 compared to $580,000 in Stamford, a difference of $100,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $3,200 in New York City versus $2,400 in Stamford.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: New York City scores 109 while Stamford scores 110.
Healthcare costs in New York City (108) are lower than Stamford (114).
Median household income in New York City is $67,046 compared to $95,272 in Stamford. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Stamford.
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