Cost of Living: Newark, NJ vs Kent, WA (2026)

Newark

New Jersey
100
VS

Kent

Washington
145

Newark is 31% cheaper than Kent.

$1,330/mo ↓ 27%
Median Rent
$1,833/mo ↑ 38%
$48,416/yr ↓ 46%
Median Income
$90,416/yr ↑ 87%
$337,800 ↓ 37%
Home Value
$537,500 ↑ 59%
$1,419/mo ↓ 26%
Owner Costs
$1,915/mo ↑ 35%
307,188
Population
135,015

Tax Comparison

10.75%
Income Tax
0%
6.625%
State Sales Tax
6.5%
2.23%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

33.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
24.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Newark, NJ and Kent, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 145 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $503/month cheaper in Newark, saving renters about $6,036/year.

Median household income is $42,000/year higher in Kent. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Newark is $337,800 compared to $537,500 in Kent.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Kent residents a significant tax advantage over New Jersey's 10.75% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Newark vs Kent — common questions

Is Newark or Kent cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Newark is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 145 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Newark and Kent?
Median rent in Newark is $1,330/month and in Kent it's $1,833/month — a difference of $503/month.
Which city has higher income, Newark or Kent?
Median household income is $48,416 in Newark and $90,416 in Kent. Median household income is $42,000/year higher in Kent.
How do taxes compare between New Jersey and Washington?
New Jersey has 10.75% income tax, 6.625% sales tax, and 2.23% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Newark or Kent?
It depends on your priorities. Newark has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,330/mo, while Kent has a cost index of 145 with rent of $1,833/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Newark details → View Kent details →

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