Kept

City vs city

Seattle vs New York City

$100,000 in Seattle buys a lifestyle closer to $117,000 in New York City, because New York City's cost-of-living index is 168 versus 144.

Seattle

No state income tax, high wages, and high housing. Take-home stretches further than in California at the same salary.

COL index
144
Typical 1-bed
$2,300/mo
Comfortable salary
$122,000
$100k take-home
$79,180
Full Seattle guide

New York City

The highest-density job market in the US, with NYC local income tax on top of New York State tax.

COL index
168
Typical 1-bed
$3,900/mo
Comfortable salary
$143,000
$100k take-home
$70,090
Full New York City guide

More comparisons: vs New York Cityvs San Franciscovs San Josevs Oaklandvs Los Angelesvs San Diego