Quick answer
Overall prices in the Washington, DC metro were 108.9 vs 95.8 in Buffalo, NY in 2024 (US = 100), so Washington is 13.6% more expensive than Buffalo; housing rents differ by 87% (151.1 vs 81.0). A $75,000 income in Washington buys about what $66,018 buys in Buffalo, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Washington | Buffalo | Washington vs Buffalo |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 108.9 | 95.8 | +13.6% |
| Goods | 104.8 | 99.7 | +5.2% |
| Housing (rents) | 151.1 | 81.0 | +86.6% |
| Utilities | 106.7 | 129.5 | -17.6% |
| Other services | 102.3 | 97.8 | +4.7% |
| All items, 2008 | 114.8 | 97.0 | +18.3% |
| $50,000 in Washington equals in Buffalo | $44,012 | ||
| $100,000 in Washington equals in Buffalo | $88,024 | ||
| $150,000 in Washington equals in Buffalo | $132,036 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.