New York vs Sydney

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Sydney is roughly 53% more affordable than New York (index 85 vs 179, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Sydney
More affordable overall
53% cheaper than New York · Cost index: 85 vs 179

Head-to-Head Stats

179Cost Index85
5,344Median Income /mo7,920
72Safety Index75
37Income Tax %32.5
450Internet (Mbps)92
400Coworking /mo350

Price Breakdown

New YorkCategorySydney
$5,161/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
59% ← cheaper
$2,100/month
$5.43/liter
Meal for One
71% ← cheaper
$1.6/liter
$18/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
$18/meal
$120/month
Monthly Transit Pass
7% ← cheaper
$112/month
$275/month
Utilities (Monthly)
20% ← cheaper
$220/month
$200/visit
Doctor Visit
68% ← cheaper
$65/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

New York

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

Sydney

Internet92 Mbps
Coworking$350/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability78/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is New York cheaper than Sydney?

Sydney is cheaper than New York. Sydney has a cost of living index of 85/100 compared to 179/100 for New York, making it roughly 53% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Sydney than New York?

Sydney is approximately 53% cheaper than New York based on cost index scores (85 vs 179, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in New York could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $1,425/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 $2,100/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 92 Mbps and coworking at ~$350/month. Sydney has a cost advantage of 53%.

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 $7,920 USD in Sydney.

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