Omaha, NE vs Buffalo, NY: 80 vs 61

$1,150/mo ↑ 16%

Median Rent

$989/mo ↓ 14%

$72,708/yr ↑ 51%

Median Income

$48,050/yr ↓ 34%

$230,100 ↑ 51%

Home Value

$152,300 ↓ 34%

$1,249/mo ↑ 34%

Owner Costs

$929/mo ↓ 26%

488,197

Population

276,397

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Omaha, NE and Buffalo, NY, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 61 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $161/month cheaper in Buffalo, saving renters about $1,932/year.

Median household income is $24,658/year higher in Omaha. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Omaha is $230,100 compared to $152,300 in Buffalo.

Nebraska has a lower income tax rate, making Omaha slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Omaha vs Buffalo — common questions

Is Omaha or Buffalo cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Buffalo is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 80 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Omaha and Buffalo?

Median rent in Omaha is $1,150/month and in Buffalo it's $989/month — a difference of $161/month.

Which city has higher income, Omaha or Buffalo?

Median household income is $72,708 in Omaha and $48,050 in Buffalo. Median household income is $24,658/year higher in Omaha.

How do taxes compare between Nebraska and New York?

Nebraska has 6.64% income tax, 5.5% sales tax, and 1.73% property tax. New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax.

Should I move to Omaha or Buffalo?

It depends on your priorities. Omaha has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,150/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: Omaha, NE vs Buffalo, NY (2026)

Omaha

Buffalo

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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