Moving from Rochester to Scranton (2026)

Scranton has a COL index of 83 vs 89 for Rochester (100 = US average). You'd pay about 7% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$290/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8983
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,300$1,050
per month
State tax
6.9%3.1%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,309$4,547
per month

Salary needed in Scranton to match your Rochester lifestyle

Based on the 7% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in RochesterEquivalent in Scranton
$40K$37,303
$50K$46,629
$60K$55,955
$75K$69,944
$80K$74,607
$100K$93,258
$120K$111,910
$150K$139,888

Monthly budget at $75K — Rochester vs Scranton

ExpenseRochesterScranton
Monthly take-home$4,309$4,547
1BR rent$1,300$1,050
Groceries$376$361
Transport$65$58
Utilities$180$165
Internet$65$62
Left after essentials$2,323$2,851

Frequently asked questions

Is Scranton cheaper than Rochester?

Yes. Scranton has a cost of living index of 83 vs 89 for Rochester (100 = US average). That's about 7% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Rochester to Scranton?

On a $75K salary, moving from Rochester to Scranton could save roughly $290/month on core expenses. That's ~$3,480/year.

What salary do I need in Scranton to match my Rochester lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Rochester, you'd need roughly $69,944/year in Scranton. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only