Long Beach, CA vs Buffalo, NY: 169 vs 61

$1,803/mo ↑ 82%

Median Rent

$989/mo ↓ 45%

$83,969/yr ↑ 75%

Median Income

$48,050/yr ↓ 43%

$762,200 ↑ 400%

Home Value

$152,300 ↓ 80%

$1,890/mo ↑ 103%

Owner Costs

$929/mo ↓ 51%

458,491

Population

276,397

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Long Beach, CA and Buffalo, NY, the overall cost of living indices are 169 and 61 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $814/month cheaper in Buffalo, saving renters about $9,768/year.

Median household income is $35,919/year higher in Long Beach. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Long Beach is $762,200 compared to $152,300 in Buffalo.

New York has a lower income tax rate, making Buffalo slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Long Beach vs Buffalo — common questions

Is Long Beach or Buffalo cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Buffalo is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Long Beach and Buffalo?

Median rent in Long Beach is $1,803/month and in Buffalo it's $989/month — a difference of $814/month.

Which city has higher income, Long Beach or Buffalo?

Median household income is $83,969 in Long Beach and $48,050 in Buffalo. Median household income is $35,919/year higher in Long Beach.

How do taxes compare between California and New York?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax.

Should I move to Long Beach or Buffalo?

It depends on your priorities. Long Beach has a cost index of 169 with median rent of $1,803/mo, while Buffalo has a cost index of 61 with rent of $989/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Long Beach, CA vs Buffalo, NY (2026)

Long Beach

Buffalo

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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