Cost of Living: Buffalo, NY vs Spokane, WA (2026)

Buffalo

New York
61
VS

Spokane

Washington
90

Buffalo is 32% cheaper than Spokane.

$989/mo ↓ 13%
Median Rent
$1,141/mo ↑ 15%
$48,050/yr ↓ 27%
Median Income
$65,745/yr ↑ 37%
$152,300 ↓ 53%
Home Value
$326,200 ↑ 114%
$929/mo ↓ 23%
Owner Costs
$1,213/mo ↑ 31%
276,397
Population
229,228

Tax Comparison

10.9%
Income Tax
0%
4.0%
State Sales Tax
6.5%
1.62%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

24.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
20.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Buffalo, NY and Spokane, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 61 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $152/month cheaper in Buffalo, saving renters about $1,824/year.

Median household income is $17,695/year higher in Spokane. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Buffalo is $152,300 compared to $326,200 in Spokane.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Spokane residents a significant tax advantage over New York's 10.9% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Buffalo vs Spokane — common questions

Is Buffalo or Spokane cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Buffalo is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 90 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Buffalo and Spokane?
Median rent in Buffalo is $989/month and in Spokane it's $1,141/month — a difference of $152/month.
Which city has higher income, Buffalo or Spokane?
Median household income is $48,050 in Buffalo and $65,745 in Spokane. Median household income is $17,695/year higher in Spokane.
How do taxes compare between New York and Washington?
New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Buffalo or Spokane?
It depends on your priorities. Buffalo has a cost index of 61 with median rent of $989/mo, while Spokane has a cost index of 90 with rent of $1,141/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Buffalo details → View Spokane details →

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