Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
32% cheaper
Providence is 32% more affordable than Jersey City. A $75,000 salary in Jersey City is equivalent to $50,926 in Providence.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New Jersey salaries · Rhode Island salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Jersey City has a housing index of 249 while Providence sits at 118 (national average = 100). The median home in Jersey City costs $540,000 compared to $310,000 in Providence, a difference of $230,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,600 in Jersey City versus $1,500 in Providence.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Jersey City scores 105 while Providence scores 105. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Jersey City (106) are lower than Providence (112).
Median household income in Jersey City is $80,820 compared to $47,012 in Providence. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Providence.
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