Cost of Living: Newark, NJ vs Springfield, MA (2026)

Newark

New Jersey
100
VS

Springfield

Massachusetts
79

Newark is 27% more expensive than Springfield.

$1,330/mo ↑ 19%
Median Rent
$1,114/mo ↓ 16%
$48,416/yr ↓ 6%
Median Income
$51,339/yr ↑ 6%
$337,800 ↑ 52%
Home Value
$222,700 ↓ 34%
$1,419/mo ↑ 11%
Owner Costs
$1,276/mo ↓ 10%
307,188
Population
154,751

Tax Comparison

10.75%
Income Tax
9.0%
6.625%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
2.23%
Property Tax
1.15%

Affordability

33.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
26.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Newark, NJ and Springfield, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 79 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $216/month cheaper in Springfield, saving renters about $2,592/year.

Median household income is $2,923/year higher in Springfield. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Newark is $337,800 compared to $222,700 in Springfield.

Massachusetts has a lower income tax rate, making Springfield slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Newark vs Springfield — common questions

Is Newark or Springfield cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Springfield is cheaper to live in with an index of 79 compared to 100 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Newark and Springfield?
Median rent in Newark is $1,330/month and in Springfield it's $1,114/month — a difference of $216/month.
Which city has higher income, Newark or Springfield?
Median household income is $48,416 in Newark and $51,339 in Springfield. Median household income is $2,923/year higher in Springfield.
How do taxes compare between New Jersey and Massachusetts?
New Jersey has 10.75% income tax, 6.625% sales tax, and 2.23% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.
Should I move to Newark or Springfield?
It depends on your priorities. Newark has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,330/mo, while Springfield has a cost index of 79 with rent of $1,114/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Newark details → View Springfield details →

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