Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
3% cheaper
Buffalo is 3% more affordable than Arlington. A $75,000 salary in Arlington is equivalent to $72,656 in Buffalo.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Texas salaries · New York salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Arlington has a housing index of 86 while Buffalo sits at 72 (national average = 100). The median home in Arlington costs $260,000 compared to $175,000 in Buffalo, a difference of $85,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,300 in Arlington versus $1,000 in Buffalo.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Arlington scores 96 while Buffalo scores 101. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Arlington (100) are higher than Buffalo (99). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Arlington is $60,138 compared to $40,858 in Buffalo. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Buffalo.
Amazon affiliate links