Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
21% cheaper
Syracuse is 21% more affordable than Portland. A $75,000 salary in Portland is equivalent to $58,974 in Syracuse.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Maine salaries · New York salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Portland has a housing index of 137 while Syracuse sits at 69 (national average = 100). The median home in Portland costs $395,000 compared to $140,000 in Syracuse, a difference of $255,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,700 in Portland versus $950 in Syracuse.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Portland scores 107 while Syracuse scores 101.
Healthcare costs in Portland (110) are higher than Syracuse (100).
Median household income in Portland is $56,895 compared to $36,708 in Syracuse. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Syracuse.
Amazon affiliate links