New York vs Austin

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Austin is roughly 46% more affordable than New York (index 97 vs 179, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Austin
More affordable overall
46% cheaper than New York · Cost index: 97 vs 179

Head-to-Head Stats

179Cost Index97
5,344Median Income /mo5,000
72Safety Index35
37Income Tax %0
450Internet (Mbps)940
400Coworking /mo350

Price Breakdown

New YorkCategoryAustin
$5,161/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
66% ← cheaper
$1,750/month
$5.43/liter
Meal for One
80% ← cheaper
$1.1/liter
$18/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
22% ← cheaper
$14/meal
$120/month
Monthly Transit Pass
69% ← cheaper
$37/month
$275/month
Utilities (Monthly)
38% ← cheaper
$170/month
$200/visit
Doctor Visit
57% ← cheaper
$85/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

New York

Internet450 Mbps
Coworking$400/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability89/100

Austin

Internet940 Mbps
Coworking$350/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability72/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is New York cheaper than Austin?

Austin is cheaper than New York. Austin has a cost of living index of 97/100 compared to 179/100 for New York, making it roughly 46% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Austin than New York?

Austin is approximately 46% cheaper than New York based on cost index scores (97 vs 179, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in New York could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $1,626/month in Austin.

What is the rent comparison between New York and Austin?

In New York, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $5,161/month. In Austin, the equivalent is around $1,750/month.

Which city is better for digital nomads — New York or Austin?

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. New York offers 450 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$400/month. Austin offers 940 Mbps and coworking at ~$350/month. Austin has a cost advantage of 46%.

What is the average income in New York vs Austin?

The median net monthly salary in New York is approximately $5,344 USD, compared to $5,000 USD in Austin.

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