F
33%
Overall NAT. AVG.
9%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
79%
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 Somerset New Jersey National
Cost of living133125100
Groceries109108100
Health care114112100
Housing179157100
Transportation112114100
Utilities115111100
Lifestyle & Entertainment112113100
Household Items109107100
Education & Childcare124120100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Somerset, NJ

Getting a feel for the cost of living in Somerset is essential for anyone planning to relocate, as it empowers them to make informed financial decisions, secure a comfortable lifestyle and maintain financial stability in their new environment. The cost of living in Somerset is 133, which is 33% higher than the national average. Relocating individuals may need to adjust their savings and investment strategies based on the cost of living in the new location. It influences decisions about retirement planning, investments and financial goals.

The cost of living in Somerset is among the highest in the country, making it a very expensive place to live. Only a small fraction of regions boast a cost of living that is at least 20% higher than the national average, and regrettably, Somerset falls into this category, which may not be suitable for those seeking an economically favorable living environment.

Housing costs make up a big chunk of the cost of living in Somerset, and they usually eat into a large part of your take-home pay. Unfortunately, in this area, both buying a home and renting one costs 78.9% more than the average city. This includes stuff like home prices, rent, mortgage rates, and insurance.

Is Somerset Affordable?

Is Somerset affordable? This is a pivotal question, especially when mulling over a move, as affordability carries substantial weight in your decision-making process. Factors such as the cost of living index (discussed earlier), housing expenses and income levels all contribute to a location's affordability. For instance, in Somerset, the median home price is 80.1% higher than the national average and monthly rent prices are 76% higher than the typical rates. Additionally, the median income levels play a role in affordability, with Somerset boasting a median household income of $139,904, 72% higher than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Somerset?

Groceries: The costs associated with groceries have witnessed substantial increases over the past 2-3 years. In select markets, food prices have escalated by more than 20% during this timeframe, whereas others have seen more restrained upticks. The variances in food expenses can exert a considerable influence on the overall cost of living in a given locale. In Somerset, the groceries index is 9.3% 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 Somerset, healthcare costs are 13.5% higher than the national average.

Transportation: In cities with limited or no public transportation, residents may find it necessary to own and maintain vehicles, thereby elevating the cost of living. Monthly expenditures include fuel, insurance, routine maintenance and potential lease or financing commitments. In Somerset, the transportation index stands at 11.9% higher than the national average.

Where is the Data From?

The cost of living estimates displayed for Somerset 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 Somerset is 6% higher than the New Jersey average
  • The cost of living in Somerset is 33% higher than the national average
  • Somerset housing is 79% 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 Somerset

See all the best places to live around Somerset

Compare Somerset, 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$159,982$13,332$3,733$4,800
      Renters$105,240$8,770$2,455$3,158
      A good indicator of the general affordability of housing in Somerset, NJ, is the percentage of monthly income that should be spent on housing expenses, otherwise known as the debt-to-income ratio (DTI). Generally speaking, no more than 28 percent of your total gross income should be spent on your housing expenses and not more than 36 percent of your gross income on total expenses, including debts. In Somerset, the median monthly income is $159,982 for those who own their own homes. Under the standard rule, that income level would allow for $3,733 to be budgeted for housing expenses each month, at the most. Renters, on the other hand, earn about $105,240, per the median income in the area. That would allow for renters to spend up to $2,455 on monthly rental expenses.

      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.
      Zarephath, NJ9811312.8%
      Rossmoor, NJ2,7691043.7%
      Clearbrook Park, NJ3,20811010.3%
      Concordia, NJ2,62011414.0%
      Roselle, NJ22,32111615.7%
      Somerset, NJ24,85613332.6%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Okemos, MI24,8481099.0%
      Kalispell, MT24,8481076.9%
      Freeport, IL24,8378217.6%
      Sturgeon County, AB24,881n/a 
      Bridgeton, NJ24,8831010.6%
      Somerset, NJ24,85613332.6%
      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.