Cost of Living: Rochester, NY vs Norman, OK (2026)

Rochester

New York
61
VS

Norman

Oklahoma
76

Rochester is 20% cheaper than Norman.

$1,039/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,064/mo ↑ 2%
$46,628/yr ↓ 28%
Median Income
$65,060/yr ↑ 40%
$120,600 ↓ 50%
Home Value
$239,300 ↑ 98%
$1,009/mo ↓ 10%
Owner Costs
$1,121/mo ↑ 11%
209,720
Population
128,714

Tax Comparison

10.9%
Income Tax
4.75%
4.0%
State Sales Tax
4.5%
1.62%
Property Tax
0.9%

Affordability

26.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
19.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Rochester, NY and Norman, OK, the overall cost of living indices are 61 and 76 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $18,432/year higher in Norman. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Rochester is $120,600 compared to $239,300 in Norman.

Oklahoma has a lower income tax rate, making Norman slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rochester vs Norman — common questions

Is Rochester or Norman cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rochester is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 76 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Rochester and Norman?
Median rent in Rochester is $1,039/month and in Norman it's $1,064/month — a difference of $25/month.
Which city has higher income, Rochester or Norman?
Median household income is $46,628 in Rochester and $65,060 in Norman. Median household income is $18,432/year higher in Norman.
How do taxes compare between New York and Oklahoma?
New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax. Oklahoma has 4.75% income tax, 4.5% sales tax, and 0.9% property tax.
Should I move to Rochester or Norman?
It depends on your priorities. Rochester has a cost index of 61 with median rent of $1,039/mo, while Norman has a cost index of 76 with rent of $1,064/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Rochester details → View Norman details →

More Comparisons

Other cost of living comparisons for Rochester and Norman

Rochester vs. Frisco Rochester vs. Fayetteville Rochester vs. Moreno Valley Rochester vs. Yonkers Rochester vs. Fontana Rochester vs. Cape Coral Norman vs. Fargo Norman vs. Lewisville Norman vs. Santa Clara Norman vs. Lehigh Acres Norman vs. Carrollton Norman vs. Columbia