Cost of Living: Buffalo, NY vs Sioux Falls, SD (2026)

Buffalo

New York
61
VS

Sioux Falls

South Dakota
78

Buffalo is 22% cheaper than Sioux Falls.

$989/mo ≈ Same
Median Rent
$993/mo ≈ Same
$48,050/yr ↓ 36%
Median Income
$74,714/yr ↑ 55%
$152,300 ↓ 44%
Home Value
$271,400 ↑ 78%
$929/mo ↓ 17%
Owner Costs
$1,122/mo ↑ 21%
276,397
Population
197,642

Tax Comparison

10.9%
Income Tax
0%
4.0%
State Sales Tax
4.2%
1.62%
Property Tax
1.28%

Affordability

24.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
15.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Buffalo, NY and Sioux Falls, SD, the overall cost of living indices are 61 and 78 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $26,664/year higher in Sioux Falls. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Buffalo is $152,300 compared to $271,400 in Sioux Falls.

South Dakota has no state income tax, giving Sioux Falls residents a significant tax advantage over New York's 10.9% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Buffalo vs Sioux Falls — common questions

Is Buffalo or Sioux Falls cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Buffalo is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 78 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Buffalo and Sioux Falls?
Median rent in Buffalo is $989/month and in Sioux Falls it's $993/month — a difference of $4/month.
Which city has higher income, Buffalo or Sioux Falls?
Median household income is $48,050 in Buffalo and $74,714 in Sioux Falls. Median household income is $26,664/year higher in Sioux Falls.
How do taxes compare between New York and South Dakota?
New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax. South Dakota has 0% income tax, 4.2% sales tax, and 1.28% property tax.
Should I move to Buffalo or Sioux Falls?
It depends on your priorities. Buffalo has a cost index of 61 with median rent of $989/mo, while Sioux Falls has a cost index of 78 with rent of $993/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Buffalo details → View Sioux Falls details →

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