Cost of Living: Rochester, NY vs Elizabeth, NJ (2026)

Rochester

New York
61
VS

Elizabeth

New Jersey
112

Rochester is 46% cheaper than Elizabeth.

$1,039/mo ↓ 29%
Median Rent
$1,463/mo ↑ 41%
$46,628/yr ↓ 27%
Median Income
$63,874/yr ↑ 37%
$120,600 ↓ 69%
Home Value
$393,500 ↑ 226%
$1,009/mo ↓ 35%
Owner Costs
$1,543/mo ↑ 53%
209,720
Population
135,887

Tax Comparison

10.9%
Income Tax
10.75%
4.0%
State Sales Tax
6.625%
1.62%
Property Tax
2.23%

Affordability

26.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
27.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Rochester, NY and Elizabeth, NJ, the overall cost of living indices are 61 and 112 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $424/month cheaper in Rochester, saving renters about $5,088/year.

Median household income is $17,246/year higher in Elizabeth. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Rochester is $120,600 compared to $393,500 in Elizabeth.

New Jersey has a lower income tax rate, making Elizabeth slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rochester vs Elizabeth — common questions

Is Rochester or Elizabeth cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rochester is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 112 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Rochester and Elizabeth?
Median rent in Rochester is $1,039/month and in Elizabeth it's $1,463/month — a difference of $424/month.
Which city has higher income, Rochester or Elizabeth?
Median household income is $46,628 in Rochester and $63,874 in Elizabeth. Median household income is $17,246/year higher in Elizabeth.
How do taxes compare between New York and New Jersey?
New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax. New Jersey has 10.75% income tax, 6.625% sales tax, and 2.23% property tax.
Should I move to Rochester or Elizabeth?
It depends on your priorities. Rochester has a cost index of 61 with median rent of $1,039/mo, while Elizabeth has a cost index of 112 with rent of $1,463/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Rochester details → View Elizabeth details →

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