Cost of Living: New York, NY vs Buffalo, NY (2026)

New York

New York
166
VS

Buffalo

New York
61

New York is 172% more expensive than Buffalo.

$1,779/mo ↑ 80%
Median Rent
$989/mo ↓ 44%
$79,713/yr ↑ 66%
Median Income
$48,050/yr ↓ 40%
$751,700 ↑ 394%
Home Value
$152,300 ↓ 80%
$1,837/mo ↑ 98%
Owner Costs
$929/mo ↓ 49%
8,516,202
Population
276,397

Tax Comparison

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

Affordability

26.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
24.7%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing New York, NY and Buffalo, NY, the overall cost of living indices are 166 and 61 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $790/month cheaper in Buffalo, saving renters about $9,480/year.

Median household income is $31,663/year higher in New York. Home values also differ significantly — the median in New York is $751,700 compared to $152,300 in Buffalo.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in New York.

Frequently Asked Questions

New York vs Buffalo — common questions

Is New York or Buffalo cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Buffalo is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 166 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between New York and Buffalo?
Median rent in New York is $1,779/month and in Buffalo it's $989/month — a difference of $790/month.
Which city has higher income, New York or Buffalo?
Median household income is $79,713 in New York and $48,050 in Buffalo. Median household income is $31,663/year higher in New York.
How do taxes compare between New York and New York?
Both cities are in New York and share the same state tax rates: 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax.
Should I move to New York or Buffalo?
It depends on your priorities. New York has a cost index of 166 with median rent of $1,779/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.
View New York details → View Buffalo details →

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