Cost of Living: Buffalo, NY vs Tuscaloosa, AL (2026)

Buffalo

New York
61
VS

Tuscaloosa

Alabama
73

Buffalo is 16% cheaper than Tuscaloosa.

$989/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,005/mo ↑ 2%
$48,050/yr ↓ 1%
Median Income
$48,536/yr ↑ 1%
$152,300 ↓ 36%
Home Value
$236,600 ↑ 55%
$929/mo ↓ 11%
Owner Costs
$1,038/mo ↑ 12%
276,397
Population
107,699

Tax Comparison

10.9%
Income Tax
5.0%
4.0%
State Sales Tax
4.0%
1.62%
Property Tax
0.41%

Affordability

24.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
24.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Buffalo, NY and Tuscaloosa, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 61 and 73 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $486/year higher in Tuscaloosa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Buffalo is $152,300 compared to $236,600 in Tuscaloosa.

Alabama has a lower income tax rate, making Tuscaloosa slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Buffalo vs Tuscaloosa — common questions

Is Buffalo or Tuscaloosa cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Buffalo is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 73 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Buffalo and Tuscaloosa?
Median rent in Buffalo is $989/month and in Tuscaloosa it's $1,005/month — a difference of $16/month.
Which city has higher income, Buffalo or Tuscaloosa?
Median household income is $48,050 in Buffalo and $48,536 in Tuscaloosa. Median household income is $486/year higher in Tuscaloosa.
How do taxes compare between New York and Alabama?
New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.
Should I move to Buffalo or Tuscaloosa?
It depends on your priorities. Buffalo has a cost index of 61 with median rent of $989/mo, while Tuscaloosa has a cost index of 73 with rent of $1,005/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Buffalo details → View Tuscaloosa details →

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