Cost of Living: Rochester, NY vs Columbia, MO (2026)

Rochester

New York
61
VS

Columbia

Missouri
80

Rochester is 24% cheaper than Columbia.

$1,039/mo ↓ 3%
Median Rent
$1,067/mo ↑ 3%
$46,628/yr ↓ 28%
Median Income
$64,488/yr ↑ 38%
$120,600 ↓ 55%
Home Value
$268,300 ↑ 122%
$1,009/mo ↓ 9%
Owner Costs
$1,114/mo ↑ 10%
209,720
Population
127,200

Tax Comparison

10.9%
Income Tax
4.95%
4.0%
State Sales Tax
4.225%
1.62%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

26.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
19.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Rochester, NY and Columbia, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 61 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $17,860/year higher in Columbia. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Rochester is $120,600 compared to $268,300 in Columbia.

Missouri has a lower income tax rate, making Columbia slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rochester vs Columbia — common questions

Is Rochester or Columbia 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 Rochester and Columbia?
Median rent in Rochester is $1,039/month and in Columbia it's $1,067/month — a difference of $28/month.
Which city has higher income, Rochester or Columbia?
Median household income is $46,628 in Rochester and $64,488 in Columbia. Median household income is $17,860/year higher in Columbia.
How do taxes compare between New York and Missouri?
New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Rochester or Columbia?
It depends on your priorities. Rochester has a cost index of 61 with median rent of $1,039/mo, while Columbia has a cost index of 80 with rent of $1,067/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Rochester details → View Columbia details →

More Comparisons

Other cost of living comparisons for Rochester and Columbia

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