Elmira, NY

Very Low · 50

New York · Population 26,349 · Updated March 2026

$871
Median Rent / Month
$43,089
Median Income
$88,200
Median Home Value
$880
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Elmira

24.3%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in New York

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

10.9%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
4.0%
Sales Tax
1.62%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$10,452
Annual Rent
$4,697
State Income Tax
$1,429
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Elmira is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 50 (where 100 equals the national median), Elmira residents can expect to pay median rent of $871/month while earning a median household income of $43,089/year.

The median home value in Elmira, NY is $88,200, with typical monthly owner costs around $880 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 24.3% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

New York's top income tax rate of 10.9% is among the highest in the nation, adding to the overall cost burden. Combined with a 4.0% sales tax rate and 1.62% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Elmira.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Elmira

What is the cost of living in Elmira, NY?
The cost of living index in Elmira, NY is 50 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $871, median household income is $43,089/year, and the median home value is $88,200.
Is Elmira, NY affordable?
Yes, Elmira is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 50. The rent-to-income ratio is 24.3%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Elmira, NY?
The median gross rent in Elmira, NY is $871 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $10,452.
What is the median household income in Elmira?
The median household income in Elmira, NY is $43,089 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in New York?
New York has a top income tax rate of 10.9%, a sales tax of 4.0%, and an effective property tax rate of 1.62%.