Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
43% cheaper
Salt Lake City is 43% more affordable than New York City. A $75,000 salary in New York City is equivalent to $42,914 in Salt Lake City.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New York salaries · Utah salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. New York City has a housing index of 302 while Salt Lake City sits at 120 (national average = 100). The median home in New York City costs $680,000 compared to $440,000 in Salt Lake City, a difference of $240,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $3,200 in New York City versus $1,500 in Salt Lake City.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: New York City scores 109 while Salt Lake City scores 99.
Healthcare costs in New York City (108) are higher than Salt Lake City (97).
Median household income in New York City is $67,046 compared to $60,590 in Salt Lake City. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Salt Lake City.
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