Cost of Living: Rochester, NY vs Worcester, MA (2026)

Rochester

New York
61
VS

Worcester

Massachusetts
104

Rochester is 41% cheaper than Worcester.

$1,039/mo ↓ 27%
Median Rent
$1,415/mo ↑ 36%
$46,628/yr ↓ 31%
Median Income
$67,544/yr ↑ 45%
$120,600 ↓ 64%
Home Value
$339,500 ↑ 182%
$1,009/mo ↓ 34%
Owner Costs
$1,521/mo ↑ 51%
209,720
Population
205,501

Tax Comparison

10.9%
Income Tax
9.0%
4.0%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
1.62%
Property Tax
1.15%

Affordability

26.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
25.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Rochester, NY and Worcester, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 61 and 104 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $376/month cheaper in Rochester, saving renters about $4,512/year.

Median household income is $20,916/year higher in Worcester. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Rochester is $120,600 compared to $339,500 in Worcester.

Massachusetts has a lower income tax rate, making Worcester slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rochester vs Worcester — common questions

Is Rochester or Worcester cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rochester is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 104 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Rochester and Worcester?
Median rent in Rochester is $1,039/month and in Worcester it's $1,415/month — a difference of $376/month.
Which city has higher income, Rochester or Worcester?
Median household income is $46,628 in Rochester and $67,544 in Worcester. Median household income is $20,916/year higher in Worcester.
How do taxes compare between New York and Massachusetts?
New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.
Should I move to Rochester or Worcester?
It depends on your priorities. Rochester has a cost index of 61 with median rent of $1,039/mo, while Worcester has a cost index of 104 with rent of $1,415/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Rochester details → View Worcester details →

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