Cost of Living: Rochester, NY vs Little Rock, AR (2026)

Rochester

New York
61
VS

Little Rock

Arkansas
74

Rochester is 18% cheaper than Little Rock.

$1,039/mo ↓ 3%
Median Rent
$1,067/mo ↑ 3%
$46,628/yr ↓ 23%
Median Income
$60,583/yr ↑ 30%
$120,600 ↓ 45%
Home Value
$221,200 ↑ 83%
$1,009/mo ↓ 8%
Owner Costs
$1,099/mo ↑ 9%
209,720
Population
202,739

Tax Comparison

10.9%
Income Tax
4.4%
4.0%
State Sales Tax
6.5%
1.62%
Property Tax
0.62%

Affordability

26.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Rochester, NY and Little Rock, AR, the overall cost of living indices are 61 and 74 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $13,955/year higher in Little Rock. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Rochester is $120,600 compared to $221,200 in Little Rock.

Arkansas has a lower income tax rate, making Little Rock slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rochester vs Little Rock — common questions

Is Rochester or Little Rock cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rochester is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 74 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Rochester and Little Rock?
Median rent in Rochester is $1,039/month and in Little Rock it's $1,067/month — a difference of $28/month.
Which city has higher income, Rochester or Little Rock?
Median household income is $46,628 in Rochester and $60,583 in Little Rock. Median household income is $13,955/year higher in Little Rock.
How do taxes compare between New York and Arkansas?
New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax. Arkansas has 4.4% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.
Should I move to Rochester or Little Rock?
It depends on your priorities. Rochester has a cost index of 61 with median rent of $1,039/mo, while Little Rock has a cost index of 74 with rent of $1,067/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Rochester details → View Little Rock details →

More Comparisons

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