Franklin Lakes, NJ vs South Toms River, NJ

The cost of living difference between Franklin Lakes, NJ and South Toms River, NJ is dramatic. South Toms River is 95.8% cheaper than Franklin Lakes, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Franklin Lakes has a cost index of 240 while South Toms River sits at 123, 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 Franklin Lakes is $3,334/month compared to $2,019/month in South Toms River — a 65% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: South Toms River is more affordable at $269,200 median vs $1,217,500.

Median household income in Franklin Lakes is $230,987 compared to $101,466 in South Toms River (+127.6%). While Franklin Lakes is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Franklin Lakes spend roughly 17.3% of their income on rent, less than the 23.9% in South Toms River.