Quick answer
Overall prices in the Seattle, WA metro were 111.1 vs 95.8 in Buffalo, NY in 2024 (US = 100), so Seattle is 16.0% more expensive than Buffalo; housing rents differ by 87% (151.3 vs 81.0). A $75,000 income in Seattle buys about what $64,682 buys in Buffalo, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Seattle | Buffalo | Seattle vs Buffalo |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 111.1 | 95.8 | +16.0% |
| Goods | 104.0 | 99.7 | +4.3% |
| Housing (rents) | 151.3 | 81.0 | +86.8% |
| Utilities | 92.8 | 129.5 | -28.3% |
| Other services | 106.8 | 97.8 | +9.3% |
| All items, 2008 | 109.1 | 97.0 | +12.4% |
| $50,000 in Seattle equals in Buffalo | $43,121 | ||
| $100,000 in Seattle equals in Buffalo | $86,243 | ||
| $150,000 in Seattle equals in Buffalo | $129,364 |
Related
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.