Omaha vs Jacksonville: cost of living compared
Jacksonville is 12% more expensive than Omaha overall. Jacksonville (FL) has no state income tax; NE tops out around 5.84%.
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
Overall, the cost of living in Omaha is noticeably lower than in Jacksonville. This difference is largely driven by housing expenses, which are significantly more affordable in Omaha. While many categories show Omaha as the more budget-friendly option, Jacksonville's lack of a state income tax can offset some of its higher costs for some residents, making the overall financial picture more nuanced depending on individual circumstances and income levels.
Housing
Housing costs present a substantial difference between the two metros. Both median home prices and typical rents for a one-bedroom apartment are considerably higher in Jacksonville. Beyond the mortgage, Florida homeowners often face elevated insurance premiums, including potential flood insurance, and may encounter additional fees like those from homeowners associations or community development districts. Property taxes in Florida also reset to market value upon sale, which can mean a buyer's property tax bill is higher than the previous owner's.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses generally favor Omaha, with transportation, food, healthcare, and utilities all costing less there. However, Jacksonville benefits from Florida's absence of a state income tax, which can provide a significant financial advantage for many, especially those with higher incomes. This tax difference can help to balance out some of Jacksonville's higher costs in other categories, making the net impact on take-home pay a key consideration for movers.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, a move between these metros involves distinct lifestyle changes. Omaha experiences four distinct seasons, including cold winters, while Jacksonville offers a subtropical climate with warm, humid summers and mild winters, but also hurricane season risks. Commute times are generally shorter in Omaha. Jacksonville, as a coastal city, offers access to beaches and water activities, while Omaha, a Midwestern hub, provides a different pace and character, often with more spread-out development.
Bottom line
For those prioritizing lower upfront and ongoing housing costs, Omaha presents a clear financial advantage. However, Jacksonville's lack of state income tax could provide substantial savings for many, potentially offsetting its higher expenses in housing and other areas. When weighing a move, consider your income, spending habits, and tolerance for varying climate and lifestyle factors, as these will ultimately determine which metro best aligns with your financial and personal goals.
| Measure | Omaha, NE | Jacksonville, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 85 | 95 |
| Housing index | 67 | 91 |
| Transportation index | 80 | 96 |
| Food index | 88 | 92 |
| Healthcare index | 90 | 95 |
| Utilities index | 92 | 105 |
| Misc index | 82 | 88 |
| Median home price | $238,000 | $318,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,000/mo | $1,400/mo |
| Average commute | 22 min | 27 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Jacksonville home with the True Cost Calculator.