Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
12% cheaper
Springfield is 12% more affordable than Newark. A $75,000 salary in Newark is equivalent to $66,322 in Springfield.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New Jersey salaries · Massachusetts salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Newark has a housing index of 149 while Springfield sits at 106 (national average = 100). The median home in Newark costs $340,000 compared to $230,000 in Springfield, a difference of $110,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Newark versus $1,200 in Springfield.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Newark scores 103 while Springfield scores 104. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Newark (105) are lower than Springfield (114).
Median household income in Newark is $40,014 compared to $41,612 in Springfield. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Springfield.
Amazon affiliate links