Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
5% cheaper
Newark is 5% more affordable than Sacramento. A $75,000 salary in Sacramento is equivalent to $70,898 in Newark.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New Jersey salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Newark has a housing index of 149 while Sacramento sits at 163 (national average = 100). The median home in Newark costs $340,000 compared to $450,000 in Sacramento, a difference of $110,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Newark versus $1,700 in Sacramento.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Newark scores 103 while Sacramento scores 104. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Newark (105) are lower than Sacramento (106). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Newark is $40,014 compared to $64,660 in Sacramento. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Newark.
Amazon affiliate links