Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
4% cheaper
Washington is 4% more affordable than Stamford. A $75,000 salary in Stamford is equivalent to $72,152 in Washington.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Connecticut salaries · District of Columbia salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Stamford has a housing index of 232 while Washington sits at 226 (national average = 100). The median home in Stamford costs $580,000 compared to $580,000 in Washington, a difference of $0. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,400 in Stamford versus $2,300 in Washington.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Stamford scores 110 while Washington scores 108.
Healthcare costs in Stamford (114) are higher than Washington (105).
Median household income in Stamford is $95,272 compared to $90,842 in Washington. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Washington.
Amazon affiliate links