Cost of Living: Rochester, NY vs Augusta, GA (2026)

Rochester

New York
61
VS

Augusta

Georgia
67

Rochester is 9% cheaper than Augusta.

$1,039/mo ↓ 4%
Median Rent
$1,087/mo ↑ 5%
$46,628/yr ↓ 12%
Median Income
$53,134/yr ↑ 14%
$120,600 ↓ 26%
Home Value
$162,900 ↑ 35%
$1,009/mo ↓ 4%
Owner Costs
$1,053/mo ↑ 4%
209,720
Population
201,504

Tax Comparison

10.9%
Income Tax
5.49%
4.0%
State Sales Tax
4.0%
1.62%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

26.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
24.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Rochester, NY and Augusta, GA, the overall cost of living indices are 61 and 67 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $6,506/year higher in Augusta. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Rochester is $120,600 compared to $162,900 in Augusta.

Georgia has a lower income tax rate, making Augusta slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rochester vs Augusta — common questions

Is Rochester or Augusta cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rochester is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 67 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Rochester and Augusta?
Median rent in Rochester is $1,039/month and in Augusta it's $1,087/month — a difference of $48/month.
Which city has higher income, Rochester or Augusta?
Median household income is $46,628 in Rochester and $53,134 in Augusta. Median household income is $6,506/year higher in Augusta.
How do taxes compare between New York and Georgia?
New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax. Georgia has 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Rochester or Augusta?
It depends on your priorities. Rochester has a cost index of 61 with median rent of $1,039/mo, while Augusta has a cost index of 67 with rent of $1,087/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Rochester details → View Augusta details →

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