Buffalo vs Cleveland: cost of living compared
Cleveland is about the same as Buffalo overall. State income tax tops out around 3.5% in OH vs 6.5% in NY.
Indexes use a US average of 100: below 100 is cheaper than the national average. Housing and transportation are derived from median home prices, rents and commute times; figures come from BLS, Census ACS, Numbeo and the MIT Living Wage Calculator.
The big picture
When comparing the overall cost of living, Buffalo and Cleveland are remarkably similar, both offering a significantly more affordable experience than the national average. While housing costs are a primary driver of affordability in both cities, other categories like food and healthcare are also quite budget-friendly. The main differences in expenses emerge when looking at transportation and state income taxes, which can create a noticeable gap in a household's annual spending.
Housing
Housing costs in Cleveland are slightly more favorable than in Buffalo, whether you are looking to buy a home or rent a one-bedroom apartment. Both cities feature a substantial stock of older, established homes, often with classic architectural styles. Property taxes and insurance costs will vary, but the initial purchase price and monthly rental rates in Cleveland present a modest advantage, making it a bit easier on the wallet for shelter.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses for food and healthcare are quite comparable between Buffalo and Cleveland. However, transportation costs are noticeably lower in Buffalo, which can add up over time. Utilities in Buffalo are a bit higher, while Cleveland's are more moderate. A significant difference for residents is state income tax; Ohio's top marginal rate is considerably lower than New York's, impacting overall take-home pay and daily spending power.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Both Buffalo and Cleveland experience four distinct seasons, including cold, snowy winters due to their proximity to large bodies of water. Buffalo is known for its lake-effect snow, while Cleveland also sees significant winter weather. Both cities offer a more relaxed pace of life than larger metropolitan areas, with generally manageable commute times. Public transportation options exist in both, but personal vehicles are common for daily travel.
Bottom line
For those weighing a move, the overall cost of living in Buffalo and Cleveland is very similar and well below the national average. Cleveland offers a slight edge in housing affordability and a more significant advantage in state income tax, which could lead to greater disposable income. Buffalo, however, counters with lower transportation costs. The decision may ultimately hinge on which of these key expense categories aligns best with an individual's financial priorities and lifestyle preferences.
| Measure | Buffalo, NY | Cleveland, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 82 | 82 |
| Housing index | 59 | 57 |
| Transportation index | 82 | 91 |
| Food index | 90 | 90 |
| Healthcare index | 92 | 92 |
| Utilities index | 105 | 98 |
| Misc index | 80 | 82 |
| Median home price | $198,000 | $188,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $975/mo | $950/mo |
| Average commute | 23 min | 26 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Cleveland home with the True Cost Calculator.