Buffalo, NY vs Rochester, NY: Cost of Living Comparison
Rochester has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Buffalo | Rochester | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 67 | 62 | Rochester |
| Housing | 44 ($692) | 35 ($727) | Rochester |
| Transportation | 107 ($3.50) | 109 ($3.50) | Buffalo |
| Food & groceries | 64 ($262) | 62 ($254) | Rochester |
| Utilities | 72 ($79) | 68 ($63) | Rochester |
| Healthcare | 72 ($57) | 68 ($46) | Rochester |
| Median annual wage | 123 ($59,670) | 123 ($59,670) | Tie |
Index 100 = US national average. Lower = cheaper. For wage, higher = better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Buffalo, NY or Rochester, NY cheaper to live in?
Rochester, NY is cheaper overall by about 5 index points (Buffalo, NY: 67, Rochester, NY: 62; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Buffalo, NY vs Rochester, NY?
A single adult needs roughly $23,450/year in Buffalo, NY and $21,700/year in Rochester, NY to cover basic living costs.