Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
32% cheaper
Sacramento is 32% more affordable than New York City. A $75,000 salary in New York City is equivalent to $51,337 in Sacramento.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New York salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. New York City has a housing index of 302 while Sacramento sits at 163 (national average = 100). The median home in New York City costs $680,000 compared to $450,000 in Sacramento, a difference of $230,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $3,200 in New York City versus $1,700 in Sacramento.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: New York City scores 109 while Sacramento scores 104.
Healthcare costs in New York City (108) are higher than Sacramento (106).
Median household income in New York City is $67,046 compared to $64,660 in Sacramento. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Sacramento.
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