Cost of Living: Rochester, NY vs Salem, OR (2026)

Rochester

New York
61
VS

Salem

Oregon
105

Rochester is 42% cheaper than Salem.

$1,039/mo ↓ 21%
Median Rent
$1,323/mo ↑ 27%
$46,628/yr ↓ 35%
Median Income
$71,900/yr ↑ 54%
$120,600 ↓ 68%
Home Value
$382,400 ↑ 217%
$1,009/mo ↓ 30%
Owner Costs
$1,440/mo ↑ 43%
209,720
Population
176,666

Tax Comparison

10.9%
Income Tax
9.9%
4.0%
State Sales Tax
0%
1.62%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

26.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
22.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Rochester, NY and Salem, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 61 and 105 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $284/month cheaper in Rochester, saving renters about $3,408/year.

Median household income is $25,272/year higher in Salem. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Rochester is $120,600 compared to $382,400 in Salem.

Oregon has a lower income tax rate, making Salem slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rochester vs Salem — common questions

Is Rochester or Salem cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rochester is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 105 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Rochester and Salem?
Median rent in Rochester is $1,039/month and in Salem it's $1,323/month — a difference of $284/month.
Which city has higher income, Rochester or Salem?
Median household income is $46,628 in Rochester and $71,900 in Salem. Median household income is $25,272/year higher in Salem.
How do taxes compare between New York and Oregon?
New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax. Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Rochester or Salem?
It depends on your priorities. Rochester has a cost index of 61 with median rent of $1,039/mo, while Salem has a cost index of 105 with rent of $1,323/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Rochester details → View Salem details →

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