New York vs Seattle

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Seattle is roughly 20% more affordable than New York (index 144 vs 179, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Seattle
More affordable overall
20% cheaper than New York · Cost index: 144 vs 179

Head-to-Head Stats

179Cost Index144
5,344Median Income /mo6,429
72Safety Index40
37Income Tax %0
450Internet (Mbps)150
400Coworking /mo350

Price Breakdown

New YorkCategorySeattle
$5,161/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
54% ← cheaper
$2,365/month
$5.43/liter
Meal for One
11% ← cheaper
$4.84/liter
$18/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
$18/meal
$120/month
Monthly Transit Pass
18% ← cheaper
$99/month
$275/month
Utilities (Monthly)
24% ← cheaper
$208/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

Seattle

Internet150 Mbps
Coworking$350/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability72/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is New York cheaper than Seattle?

Seattle is cheaper than New York. Seattle has a cost of living index of 144/100 compared to 179/100 for New York, making it roughly 20% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Seattle than New York?

Seattle is approximately 20% cheaper than New York based on cost index scores (144 vs 179, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in New York could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,413/month in Seattle.

What is the rent comparison between New York and Seattle?

In New York, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $5,161/month. In Seattle, the equivalent is around $2,365/month.

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

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. New York offers 450 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$400/month. Seattle offers 150 Mbps and coworking at ~$350/month. Seattle has a cost advantage of 20%.

What is the average income in New York vs Seattle?

The median net monthly salary in New York is approximately $5,344 USD, compared to $6,429 USD in Seattle.

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