The matter of cost of living in Syracuse, New York, at first glance, might seem a straightforward numerical calculation – housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, and so forth. Yet, as we have repeatedly discovered, the task of capturing reality in words often reveals a more intricate landscape than what lies on the surface.
Consider housing, which is noticeably more affordable in Syracuse than in many other U.S. cities. But what does this actually mean for someone contemplating a move to Syracuse? For some, this affordability might be a welcome relief, a chance to own a home in a region that still offers four distinct seasons and proximity to outdoor recreational opportunities. But, for those whose careers are anchored in high-cost cities, the notion of ‘affordability’ might seem less relevant, their income levels adjusting the perspective.
Similarly, ponder upon the cost of utilities or transportation. These may be lower than the national average, but how significant is that to an individual or family considering Syracuse as a home? Someone with a high income or accustomed to higher costs may find these differences minor, while for others, this could significantly impact their monthly budget and quality of life.
Imagine a stranger, unacquainted with Syracuse, navigating this information. Does the concept of ‘cost of living’ suddenly morph from a collection of figures into a more personalized, subjective experience? The true cost of living isn’t simply a matter of dollars and cents, but an intertwining of these costs with personal income, lifestyle preferences, and life circumstances. By appreciating this complexity, we move towards a richer understanding of what the ‘cost of living’ in Syracuse—or any city, for that matter—truly entails.
What is the cost of living in Syracuse compared to other cities in the US?
Syracuse, NY is more affordable than many other major U.S. metro areas, making it a popular place to live for families, retirees, and young professionals. The cost of living in Syracuse is 27% lower than the state average and 5% lower than the national average. The average cost of living in Syracuse is $1810, which is in the top 23% of the most expensive cities in the world, ranked 2108th out of 9294 in our global. The total cost of housing, food, child care, transportation, health care, taxes, and other necessities for a single adult in Syracuse is $36,618 a year. The cost of living in Syracuse, NY is 70% lower than your current city, and utilities tend to cost 1% lower.
Comparison of the cost of living in Syracuse, NY to other nearby cities and similar cities:
| City | Cost of Living Index (100 = US average) |
|---|---|
| Syracuse, NY | 84.1 |
| Binghamton, NY | 82.1 |
| Utica, NY | 81.3 |
| Rochester, NY | 89.7 |
| Albany, NY | 91.7 |
| Buffalo, NY | 93.8 |
| Scranton, PA | 83.3 |
| Allentown, PA | 84.8 |
| Harrisburg, PA | 86.2 |
As you can see, Syracuse has a lower cost of living than most other cities in New York State. This is especially true for housing, which is about 22% cheaper in Syracuse than the national average. Other expenses, such as groceries and transportation, are also slightly lower in Syracuse.
Here are some of the factors that contribute to Syracuse’s lower cost of living:
- The city has a relatively low population density, which means there is less demand for housing and other goods and services.
- The city is located in a rural area, which means the cost of living is lower than in urban areas.
- The city has a strong manufacturing base, which provides jobs and helps to keep wages relatively high.
Other nearby cities and similar cities. The higher the index, the more expensive the city is. Here are some examples:
Nearby cities:
- Rochester, NY: 76.9
- Buffalo, NY: 77.6
- Albany, NY: 88.8
- Similar cities:
- Pittsburgh, PA: 87.0
- Cleveland, OH: 77.1
- Milwaukee, WI: 84.1
As you can see, Syracuse, NY has a cost of living index of 84.1, which is slightly higher than the US average and higher than most of the nearby and similar cities. However, it is still lower than some other cities in New York state, such as New York City (209.8), Brooklyn (187.4), or Long Island (154.5). The main factors that contribute to Syracuse’s cost of living are housing (51), utilities (107.7), and miscellaneous expenses (140.3). On the other hand, food (96.8), health care (117.4), and transportation (85.3) are relatively cheaper in Syracuse than in other places.
Overall, Syracuse is a relatively affordable city to live in. If you are looking for a city with a low cost of living and a strong economy, Syracuse may be a good option for you.