Cost of Living: Rochester, NY vs West Palm Beach, FL (2026)

Rochester

New York
61
VS

West Palm Beach

Florida
119

Rochester is 49% cheaper than West Palm Beach.

$1,039/mo ↓ 39%
Median Rent
$1,709/mo ↑ 64%
$46,628/yr ↓ 33%
Median Income
$69,261/yr ↑ 49%
$120,600 ↓ 67%
Home Value
$369,800 ↑ 207%
$1,009/mo ↓ 39%
Owner Costs
$1,667/mo ↑ 65%
209,720
Population
119,508

Tax Comparison

10.9%
Income Tax
0%
4.0%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
1.62%
Property Tax
0.86%

Affordability

26.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
29.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Rochester, NY and West Palm Beach, FL, the overall cost of living indices are 61 and 119 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $670/month cheaper in Rochester, saving renters about $8,040/year.

Median household income is $22,633/year higher in West Palm Beach. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Rochester is $120,600 compared to $369,800 in West Palm Beach.

Florida has no state income tax, giving West Palm Beach residents a significant tax advantage over New York's 10.9% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rochester vs West Palm Beach — common questions

Is Rochester or West Palm Beach cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rochester is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 119 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Rochester and West Palm Beach?
Median rent in Rochester is $1,039/month and in West Palm Beach it's $1,709/month — a difference of $670/month.
Which city has higher income, Rochester or West Palm Beach?
Median household income is $46,628 in Rochester and $69,261 in West Palm Beach. Median household income is $22,633/year higher in West Palm Beach.
How do taxes compare between New York and Florida?
New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax. Florida has 0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.86% property tax.
Should I move to Rochester or West Palm Beach?
It depends on your priorities. Rochester has a cost index of 61 with median rent of $1,039/mo, while West Palm Beach has a cost index of 119 with rent of $1,709/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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More Comparisons

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