Clifton, NJ vs Westfield, NJ

The cost of living difference between Clifton, NJ and Westfield, NJ is dramatic. Clifton is 31% cheaper than Westfield, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Clifton has a cost index of 126 while Westfield sits at 183, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Clifton is $1,658/month compared to $2,211/month in Westfield — a 25% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Clifton is more affordable at $444,300 median vs $930,500.

Median household income in Clifton is $99,003 compared to $212,700 in Westfield (-53.5%). While Westfield 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, more than the 12.5% in Westfield.