Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
19% cheaper
Washington is 19% more affordable than New York City. A $75,000 salary in New York City is equivalent to $60,963 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. New York City has a housing index of 302 while Washington sits at 226 (national average = 100). The median home in New York City costs $680,000 compared to $580,000 in Washington, a difference of $100,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $3,200 in New York City versus $2,300 in Washington.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: New York City scores 109 while Washington scores 108.
Healthcare costs in New York City (108) are higher than Washington (105).
Median household income in New York City is $67,046 compared to $90,842 in Washington. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Washington.
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