Hempstead, NY vs Rome, NY

The cost of living difference between Hempstead, NY and Rome, NY is dramatic. Rome is 79.2% cheaper than Hempstead, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Hempstead has a cost index of 126 while Rome sits at 70, 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 Hempstead is $1,649/month compared to $871/month in Rome — a 89% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Rome is more affordable at $137,200 median vs $442,100.

Median household income in Hempstead is $82,454 compared to $58,857 in Rome (+40.1%). The higher salaries in Hempstead partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Hempstead spend roughly 24% of their income on rent, more than the 17.8% in Rome.

Climate-wise, Hempstead is notably warmer with an average of 54.3°F compared to 46.6°F in Rome. Rome receives more rainfall at 43.8" per year compared to 43.3" in Hempstead.