A+
5%
Overall NAT. AVG.
4%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
39%
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 Johnson City New York National
Cost of living95121100
Groceries104106100
Health care109110100
Housing61144100
Transportation114113100
Utilities113112100
Lifestyle & Entertainment112111100
Household Items104106100
Education & Childcare113118100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Johnson City, NY

Understanding the cost of living in Johnson City can help future residents assess whether their current financial situation aligns with the expenses they will encounter. It enables them to plan for potential changes in their budget and lifestyle. The Johnson City cost of living index is 95, which is 5% lower than the national average. The cost of living index is calculated by taking into account multiple categories, which encompass both the cost of everyday expenditures and larger expenses as well.

Everyday expenditures like food, housing, lifestyle expenses, transportation and health care in Johnson City are priced in a manner consistent with other areas. This means that residents of Johnson City can anticipate their daily expenses remaining reasonably similar to those in an average city, thereby supporting a manageable cost of living.

Is Johnson City Affordable?

Wondering if Johnson City 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 Johnson City, for example, the median home price is 48.4% lower than what folks pay nationally, and monthly rent is 15.8% lower than the usual rates. Plus, income levels matter too, with Johnson City boasting a median household income of $63,906, which is 21.4% lower than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Johnson City?

Utilities: Similar to the prices of any other goods or services, utility expenditures can exhibit substantial variability, influenced by factors such as climate, energy sources accessibility, geographical location and state regulations. Costs related to electricity, water, heating, and waste disposal can fluctuate, whether higher or lower, contingent on the city or state. In Johnson City, the utilities index is 13.4% higher than the national average.

Transportation: In areas where public transportation is scarce or unavailable, residents often find themselves compelled to own and upkeep vehicles, thereby increasing the overall cost of living. Monthly expenses encompass fuel, insurance, routine maintenance and potentially lease or financing payments. In Johnson City, the transportation index is 14.1% higher than the national average.

Healthcare: Healthcare expenditures and insurance premium rates can vary significantly, contingent upon the particular city or state. Factors such as the accessibility of healthcare facilities, out-of-pocket expenses for doctor's appointments, dental care charges, prescription medication costs, and expenses related to specialized medical care can all have an impact on the overall cost of living. In Johnson City, healthcare costs are 9.2% higher than the national average.

Where is the Data From?

The cost of living data for Johnson City shown above is based on a U.S. average baseline score of 100, making it easier to compare how far your dollar may go from one city to another. Housing uses U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all remaining values are AI-assisted estimates informed by regional pricing, climate, transportation dynamics, and local economic factors. These scores are best used for directional comparisons between cities.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in Johnson City is 21% lower than the New York average
  • The cost of living in Johnson City is 5% lower than the national average
  • Johnson City housing is 39% lower than the national average
  • New York general sales tax is 22% lower than the national average
  • New York state income tax is 54% higher than the national average

Most Affordable Places to Live in and Around Johnson City

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Compare Johnson City, NY 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$89,799$7,483$2,095$2,694
      Renters$34,458$2,872$804$1,034
      The percentage of monthly income spent on housing related expenses can help predict the affordability of housing in Johnson City, NY, as well as what the overall cost of living might be. Generally, a good rule to follow is that the debt-to-income (DTI) level you want to maintain is 28 percent or less of your income on your rent or mortgage payments and not more than 36 percent of income on all expenses and debts. In Johnson City, homeowners have a median income of $89,799. Using that number, a maximum of $2,095 per month should be allocated to housing expenses. For those who are renting instead of owning, the median income is $34,458, which means there is a maximum of $804 to be spent on the costs of renting a home or apartment.

      New York Sales Tax

      State General Sales Tax With Max Surtax
      New York 4% 8.875%

      New York Income Tax

      State Income Tax (Low) Income Tax (High)
      New York 4% 10.9%

      Nearby cities with low cost of living

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Binghamton University, NY6,3511109.6%
      Hallstead, PA1,251936.6%
      Glen Aubrey, NY268946.4%
      Endicott, NY12,939946.2%
      Binghamton, NY46,285945.6%
      Johnson City, NY14,660954.9%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      West Freehold, NJ14,65714241.8%
      Hawaiian Gardens, CA14,65614242.3%
      Olympia Heights, FL14,65613030.3%
      Johnstown, CO14,65513130.7%
      Pineville, LA14,677927.9%
      Johnson City, NY14,660954.9%
      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.