Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
22% cheaper
Washington is 22% more affordable than Brooklyn. A $75,000 salary in Brooklyn is equivalent to $58,462 in Washington.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New York salaries · District of Columbia salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Brooklyn has a housing index of 325 while Washington sits at 226 (national average = 100). The median home in Brooklyn costs $780,000 compared to $580,000 in Washington, a difference of $200,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,900 in Brooklyn versus $2,300 in Washington.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Brooklyn scores 108 while Washington scores 108.
Healthcare costs in Brooklyn (108) are higher than Washington (105).
Median household income in Brooklyn is $65,294 compared to $90,842 in Washington. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Washington.
Amazon affiliate links