New York vs Seattle: cost of living compared
Seattle is 17% cheaper than New York overall. Seattle (WA) has no state income tax; NY tops out around 6.5%.
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
Comparing the overall cost of living, New York is noticeably more expensive than Seattle. While both cities present a high cost burden compared to the national average, the difference is significant. This disparity is primarily driven by New York's much higher expenses in categories like housing and transportation, making daily life and accommodation considerably pricier there.
Housing
When it comes to housing, the picture is mixed but generally favors Seattle for renters. Renting a one-bedroom apartment is substantially more expensive in New York. However, purchasing a home shows a different trend, with median home prices being higher in Seattle. Both cities feature dense urban housing, but New York is known for its vertical living, while Seattle offers a mix of urban and suburban-style homes, often with smaller lots.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses vary considerably between the two metros. New York has a state income tax, unlike Seattle, which can impact take-home pay. Transportation costs are much higher in New York, while food, healthcare, and utilities are also more expensive there, though with smaller gaps. These differences mean that routine spending on essentials will generally be higher for New York residents.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, lifestyle differences are notable. New York is a dense, fast-paced city with extensive public transit, making car ownership less essential. Seattle offers a slightly more relaxed pace, with a strong connection to nature and a climate known for its frequent rain and milder temperatures, contrasting with New York's four distinct seasons. Commute times are also considerably longer in New York.
Bottom line
For those considering a move, the financial implications are clear: New York presents a significantly higher overall cost of living. While home prices can be higher in Seattle, renting is much more affordable there, and daily expenses across most categories, including transportation and the absence of a state income tax, contribute to a more budget-friendly existence compared to New York. Your budget will stretch further in Seattle.
| Measure | New York, NY | Seattle, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 187 | 155 |
| Housing index | 200 | 192 |
| Transportation index | 171 | 123 |
| Food index | 118 | 112 |
| Healthcare index | 122 | 112 |
| Utilities index | 115 | 105 |
| Misc index | 125 | 118 |
| Median home price | $685,000 | $748,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $3,200/mo | $2,350/mo |
| Average commute | 47 min | 33 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Seattle home with the True Cost Calculator.