New York vs Sydney

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Sydney is roughly 50% more affordable than New York (index 50 vs 100, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Sydney
More affordable overall
50% cheaper than New York · Cost index: 50 vs 100

Life Power at $3,000/mo

The same salary ranks differently depending on where you live — from Beggar to King.

Head-to-Head Stats

100Cost Index50
5,344Median Income /mo5,100
72Safety Index79
37Income Tax %32.5
450Internet (Mbps)84
400Coworking /mo600

Price Breakdown

New YorkCategorySydney
$5,161/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
58% ← cheaper
$2,143/month
$5.43/liter
Meal for One
67% ← cheaper
$1.8/liter
$18/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
18% cheaper →
$22/meal
$120/month
Monthly Transit Pass
14% cheaper →
$140/month
$275/month
Utilities (Monthly)
19% ← cheaper
$222/month
$200/visit
Doctor Visit
50% ← cheaper
$100/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

New York

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

Sydney

Internet84 Mbps
Coworking$600/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability70/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is New York cheaper than Sydney?

Sydney is cheaper than New York. Sydney has a cost of living index of 50/100 compared to 100/100 for New York (New York = 100), making it roughly 50% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Sydney than New York?

Sydney is approximately 50% cheaper than New York based on cost index scores (50 vs 100, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in New York could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $1,508/month in Sydney.

What is the rent comparison between New York and Sydney?

In New York, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $5,161/month. In Sydney, the equivalent is around $2,143/month.

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

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. New York offers 450 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$400/month. Sydney offers 84 Mbps and coworking at ~$600/month. Sydney has a cost advantage of 50%.

What is the average income in New York vs Sydney?

The median net monthly salary in New York is approximately $5,344 USD, compared to $5,100 USD in Sydney.

Compare New York with…

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Or explore:San Francisco

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