Omaha, NE vs Rochester, NY: 80 vs 61

$1,150/mo ↑ 11%

Median Rent

$1,039/mo ↓ 10%

$72,708/yr ↑ 56%

Median Income

$46,628/yr ↓ 36%

$230,100 ↑ 91%

Home Value

$120,600 ↓ 48%

$1,249/mo ↑ 24%

Owner Costs

$1,009/mo ↓ 19%

488,197

Population

209,720

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Omaha, NE and Rochester, NY, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 61 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $111/month cheaper in Rochester, saving renters about $1,332/year.

Median household income is $26,080/year higher in Omaha. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Omaha is $230,100 compared to $120,600 in Rochester.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Omaha vs Rochester — common questions

Is Omaha or Rochester cheaper to live in?

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

What is the rent difference between Omaha and Rochester?

Median rent in Omaha is $1,150/month and in Rochester it's $1,039/month — a difference of $111/month.

Which city has higher income, Omaha or Rochester?

Median household income is $72,708 in Omaha and $46,628 in Rochester. Median household income is $26,080/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 Rochester?

It depends on your priorities. Omaha has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,150/mo, while Rochester has a cost index of 61 with rent of $1,039/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Omaha, NE vs Rochester, NY (2026)

Omaha

Rochester

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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