Cost of Living: Worcester, MA vs Elizabeth, NJ (2026)

Worcester

Massachusetts
104
VS

Elizabeth

New Jersey
112

Worcester is 7% cheaper than Elizabeth.

$1,415/mo ↓ 3%
Median Rent
$1,463/mo ↑ 3%
$67,544/yr ↑ 6%
Median Income
$63,874/yr ↓ 5%
$339,500 ↓ 14%
Home Value
$393,500 ↑ 16%
$1,521/mo ↓ 1%
Owner Costs
$1,543/mo ↑ 1%
205,501
Population
135,887

Tax Comparison

9.0%
Income Tax
10.75%
6.25%
State Sales Tax
6.625%
1.15%
Property Tax
2.23%

Affordability

25.1%
rent-to-income
Affordability
27.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Worcester, MA and Elizabeth, NJ, the overall cost of living indices are 104 and 112 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $3,670/year higher in Worcester. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Worcester is $339,500 compared to $393,500 in Elizabeth.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Worcester vs Elizabeth — common questions

Is Worcester or Elizabeth cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Worcester is cheaper to live in with an index of 104 compared to 112 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Worcester and Elizabeth?
Median rent in Worcester is $1,415/month and in Elizabeth it's $1,463/month — a difference of $48/month.
Which city has higher income, Worcester or Elizabeth?
Median household income is $67,544 in Worcester and $63,874 in Elizabeth. Median household income is $3,670/year higher in Worcester.
How do taxes compare between Massachusetts and New Jersey?
Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax. New Jersey has 10.75% income tax, 6.625% sales tax, and 2.23% property tax.
Should I move to Worcester or Elizabeth?
It depends on your priorities. Worcester has a cost index of 104 with median rent of $1,415/mo, while Elizabeth has a cost index of 112 with rent of $1,463/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Worcester details → View Elizabeth details →

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