Clifton, NJ vs Kearny, NJ

Clifton, NJ and Kearny, NJ have a very similar cost of living, with only a 1% difference in their overall index. Clifton scores 126 while Kearny scores 125 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Clifton is $1,658/month compared to $1,649/month in Kearny — a 1% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Kearny is more affordable at $431,700 median vs $444,300.

Median household income in Clifton is $99,003 compared to $83,212 in Kearny (+19%). While Clifton is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Clifton spend roughly 20.1% of their income on rent, less than the 23.8% in Kearny.