Cost of Living: Pittsburgh, PA vs Paterson, NJ (2026)

Pittsburgh

Pennsylvania
76
VS

Paterson

New Jersey
106

Pittsburgh is 28% cheaper than Paterson.

$1,221/mo ↓ 16%
Median Rent
$1,457/mo ↑ 19%
$64,137/yr ↑ 19%
Median Income
$53,766/yr ↓ 16%
$193,200 ↓ 42%
Home Value
$335,400 ↑ 74%
$1,136/mo ↓ 27%
Owner Costs
$1,553/mo ↑ 37%
303,620
Population
157,660

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
10.75%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.625%
1.49%
Property Tax
2.23%

Affordability

22.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
32.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Pittsburgh, PA and Paterson, NJ, the overall cost of living indices are 76 and 106 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $236/month cheaper in Pittsburgh, saving renters about $2,832/year.

Median household income is $10,371/year higher in Pittsburgh. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Pittsburgh is $193,200 compared to $335,400 in Paterson.

Pennsylvania has a lower income tax rate, making Pittsburgh slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pittsburgh vs Paterson — common questions

Is Pittsburgh or Paterson cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Pittsburgh is cheaper to live in with an index of 76 compared to 106 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Pittsburgh and Paterson?
Median rent in Pittsburgh is $1,221/month and in Paterson it's $1,457/month — a difference of $236/month.
Which city has higher income, Pittsburgh or Paterson?
Median household income is $64,137 in Pittsburgh and $53,766 in Paterson. Median household income is $10,371/year higher in Pittsburgh.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and New Jersey?
Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. New Jersey has 10.75% income tax, 6.625% sales tax, and 2.23% property tax.
Should I move to Pittsburgh or Paterson?
It depends on your priorities. Pittsburgh has a cost index of 76 with median rent of $1,221/mo, while Paterson has a cost index of 106 with rent of $1,457/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Pittsburgh details → View Paterson details →

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