Can I Afford to Live in New York vs San Francisco on $120K?
Here's how a $120K/year salary plays out in both cities after taxes, rent, and core living expenses — based on Q1 2026 data.
Monthly budget breakdown
| Expense | New York NY | San Francisco CA |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home (est.) | $6,465 | $6,225 |
| 1BR rent | $3,500 | $3,600 |
| Groceries (est.) | $437 | $448 |
| Transport (est.) | $132 | $100 |
| Utilities | $180 | $160 |
| Internet | $75 | $70 |
| Left after essentials | $2,141/month | $1,847/month |
Frequently asked questions
Is $120K a good salary in New York?
At $120K/year in New York, your estimated monthly take-home is $6,465. With 1BR rent around $3,500/month, rent takes up 54% of your take-home. That's considered difficult.
Is $120K a good salary in San Francisco?
At $120K/year in San Francisco, your estimated monthly take-home is $6,225. With 1BR rent around $3,600/month, rent takes up 58% of your take-home. That's considered difficult.
Which city is more affordable on a $120K salary?
New York leaves you with more money after core expenses — $2,141/month vs $1,847/month in San Francisco.
Can I afford to live alone in New York on $120K?
It's tight. Rent in New York would take 54% of your $120K take-home pay. You may need to find roommates or look at studios to stay within the 30% rule.
See the full cost-of-living comparison
Rent, groceries, taxes, transportation, and more — side by side.
Take-home estimates use simplified federal/state brackets and do not account for pre-tax deductions, 401(k), or local taxes. Data: Zillow, BLS, Numbeo · Q1 2026 · For general guidance only