Syracuse, NY

Very Low · 59

New York · Population 146,211 · Updated March 2026

$998
Median Rent / Month
$45,845
Median Income
$125,100
Median Home Value
$980
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Syracuse

26.1%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Moderate
Rent takes 25-35% of median income — moderate affordability.

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

$11,976
Annual Rent
$4,997
State Income Tax
$2,027
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Syracuse is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 59 (where 100 equals the national median), Syracuse residents can expect to pay median rent of $998/month while earning a median household income of $45,845/year.

The median home value in Syracuse, NY is $125,100, with typical monthly owner costs around $980 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. With a rent-to-income ratio of 26.1%, Syracuse falls within the generally affordable range, though it's approaching the 30% burden threshold.

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 Syracuse.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Syracuse

What is the cost of living in Syracuse, NY?
The cost of living index in Syracuse, NY is 59 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $998, median household income is $45,845/year, and the median home value is $125,100.
Is Syracuse, NY affordable?
Yes, Syracuse is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 59. The rent-to-income ratio is 26.1%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Syracuse, NY?
The median gross rent in Syracuse, NY is $998 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $11,976.
What is the median household income in Syracuse?
The median household income in Syracuse, NY is $45,845 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%.

Compare Syracuse With

Similar-sized cities to compare