F
29%
Overall NAT. AVG.
6%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
66%
Housing NAT. AVG.
Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.
The cost of living index is based on a national average of 100. For example, if the cost of living score is 90, then the estimated cost of living is 10% lower than the national average. If the score is 110, then the estimated cost of living is 10% higher than average. The overall index is calculated using weighted estimates across major everyday expense categories, including housing (30%), groceries (16%), transportation (12%), healthcare (10%), utilities (8%), lifestyle and entertainment (8%), household expenses (8%), and education and childcare (8%). All values are AI-assisted city-level estimates designed for directional comparisons.
Index Freehold New Jersey National
Cost of living129125100
Groceries106108100
Health care113112100
Housing166157100
Transportation116114100
Utilities115111100
Lifestyle & Entertainment114113100
Household Items106107100
Education & Childcare125120100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Freehold, NJ

Knowing the cost of living in Freehold allows individuals to create a realistic budget. This helps them understand how their income will cover expenses and whether they need to make financial adjustments. The cost of living in any region can fluctuate due to various factors. To assess the cost of living consistently across different areas, a national average of 100 serves as the basis for the cost of living index. The cost of living in Freehold stands at 129, marking it 29% higher than the national average.

If you value affordability in your search for a new place to live, Freehold may not be the most suitable option, as it stands out as one of the priciest areas in the entire United States. Only a small fraction of regions have a cost of living that is more than 20% higher than the national average, and regrettably, Freehold falls into this category, which may not align with your desire for an affordable place to call home.

When it comes to the cost of living in Freehold, housing costs are a real heavyweight, often hogging a significant chunk of your earnings. Sadly, in this area, housing expenses for both buying and renting were 65.6% more expensive compared to your average city. That means you'll be shelling out more for homes, rents, mortgage rates and insurance.

Is Freehold Affordable?

Wondering if Freehold is affordable? It's a question that often comes up when you're thinking about a new city since affordability can really shape your decisions. The cost of living index (covered earlier), housing expenses and income levels all play a part in the affordability equation. In Freehold, for example, the median home price is 68.1% higher than what folks pay nationally, and monthly rent is 59.6% higher than the usual rates. Plus, income levels matter too, with Freehold boasting a median household income of $88,621, which is 9% higher than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Freehold?

Taxes: Areas with higher taxes, including sales taxes and income taxes, can contribute to a higher cost of living. Paying more tax for everyday household expenses like clothing and food will result in higher costs, as will paying a higher rate of income tax. The general sales tax rate in Freehold starts at 6.625% and the income tax rates start at 1.4%.

Urbanization: Larger, urban hubs brimming with ample amenities and robust employment opportunities often showcase a heightened cost of living. This surge is primarily attributed to the amplified demand for services and increased residential migration, culminating in elevated home prices and elevated rental rates. Conversely, less densely populated rural locales or regions characterized by reduced demand tend to offer a more limited array of amenities and undergo slower job market growth, ultimately yielding a more affordable cost of living.

Housing: High demand for housing in desirable locations can drive up property prices and rental rates. This can be a primary contributor to a higher cost of living. While low demand for housing, especially in undesirable locations, can have the reverse effect and drive prices down, resulting in a lower cost of living. The housing index in Freehold, is 65.6% higher than the national average.

Where is the Data From?

The cost of living estimates displayed for Freehold are modeled using a U.S. average baseline of 100, helping provide a useful comparison of local living expenses. Housing calculations include U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all other values are AI-assisted estimates based on regional cost patterns, climate, transportation, and everyday spending expectations. These values are intended for directional comparisons across cities.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in Freehold is 3% higher than the New Jersey average
  • The cost of living in Freehold is 29% higher than the national average
  • Freehold housing is 66% higher than the national average
  • New Jersey general sales tax is 30% higher than the national average
  • New Jersey state income tax is 46% lower than the national average

Most Affordable Places to Live in and Around Freehold

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Compare Freehold, NJ Cost of Living

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      Median Income & Debt-To-Income Ratio

      Median Income Per Year Per Month Max Budget (28% DTI) Max Budget (36% DTI)
      Owners$138,554$11,546$3,233$4,157
      Renters$56,885$4,740$1,327$1,707
      To approximate the cost of living and the housing affordability in Freehold, NJ, we can look at the percentage of income that is available to be spent on monthly housing, otherwise known as the debt-to-income ratio (DTI). To stay on the safe side, a consumer should not spend more than 28% of his or her gross income on housing-related expenses and costs and not more than 36% of income on all expenses and debts. Homeowners in Freehold have a median income of $138,554. Therefore, the amount that a consumer should spend on housing costs should be no more than $3,233 per month to avoid calamity and poverty. The renters in the city have an income of about $56,885, which would make their monthly maximum allowable rental costs $1,327.

      New Jersey Sales Tax

      State General Sales Tax With Max Surtax
      New Jersey 6.625% 12.625%

      New Jersey Income Tax

      State Income Tax (Low) Income Tax (High)
      New Jersey 1.4% 10.75%

      Nearby cities with low cost of living

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Cedar Glen West, NJ1,8468713.5%
      Leisure Village, NJ4,8631022.3%
      Rossmoor, NJ2,7691043.7%
      Leisure Village West, NJ3,8531077.4%
      Leisure Village East, NJ3,8931099.2%
      Freehold, NJ12,02012928.5%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Kings, Subd. B, NS12,020n/a 
      Evanston, WY12,021973.2%
      Rawdon, QC12,021n/a 
      Adjala-Tosorontio, ON12,021n/a 
      Okmulgee, OK12,0188119.0%
      Freehold, NJ12,02012928.5%
      Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.