New York vs Portland

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Portland is roughly 34% more affordable than New York (index 119 vs 179, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Portland
More affordable overall
34% cheaper than New York · Cost index: 119 vs 179

Head-to-Head Stats

179Cost Index119
5,344Median Income /mo4,645
72Safety Index65
37Income Tax %9.9
450Internet (Mbps)180
400Coworking /mo350

Price Breakdown

New YorkCategoryPortland
$5,161/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
70% ← cheaper
$1,550/month
$5.43/liter
Meal for One
76% ← cheaper
$1.28/liter
$18/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
11% ← cheaper
$16/meal
$120/month
Monthly Transit Pass
17% ← cheaper
$100/month
$275/month
Utilities (Monthly)
40% ← cheaper
$165/month
$200/visit
Doctor Visit
40% ← cheaper
$120/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

New York

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

Portland

Internet180 Mbps
Coworking$350/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability72/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is New York cheaper than Portland?

Portland is cheaper than New York. Portland has a cost of living index of 119/100 compared to 179/100 for New York, making it roughly 34% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Portland than New York?

Portland is approximately 34% cheaper than New York based on cost index scores (119 vs 179, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in New York could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $1,994/month in Portland.

What is the rent comparison between New York and Portland?

In New York, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $5,161/month. In Portland, the equivalent is around $1,550/month.

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

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. New York offers 450 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$400/month. Portland offers 180 Mbps and coworking at ~$350/month. Portland has a cost advantage of 34%.

What is the average income in New York vs Portland?

The median net monthly salary in New York is approximately $5,344 USD, compared to $4,645 USD in Portland.

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