Cost of Living: New York, NY vs Pasadena, CA 2026

$1,779/mo ↓ 20%

Median Rent

$2,218/mo ↑ 25%

$79,713/yr ↓ 23%

Median Income

$103,778/yr ↑ 30%

$751,700 ↓ 28%

Home Value

$1,045,000 ↑ 39%

$1,837/mo ↓ 21%

Owner Costs

$2,340/mo ↑ 27%

8,516,202

Population

136,462

Detailed Comparison

When comparing New York, NY and Pasadena, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 166 and 220 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $439/month cheaper in New York, saving renters about $5,268/year.

Median household income is $24,065/year higher in Pasadena. Home values also differ significantly — the median in New York is $751,700 compared to $1,045,000 in Pasadena.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

New York vs Pasadena — common questions

Is New York or Pasadena cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, New York is cheaper to live in with an index of 166 compared to 220 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between New York and Pasadena?

Median rent in New York is $1,779/month and in Pasadena it's $2,218/month — a difference of $439/month.

Which city has higher income, New York or Pasadena?

Median household income is $79,713 in New York and $103,778 in Pasadena. Median household income is $24,065/year higher in Pasadena.

How do taxes compare between New York and California?

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

Should I move to New York or Pasadena?

It depends on your priorities. New York has a cost index of 166 with median rent of $1,779/mo, while Pasadena has a cost index of 220 with rent of $2,218/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

New York

Pasadena

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions