Ithaca, NY vs Middle Island, NY

Ithaca is moderately more affordable than Middle Island, with a 13.3% lower cost of living index. Ithaca scores 106 compared to 122 for Middle Island, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Middle Island can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Ithaca is $1,441/month compared to $1,774/month in Middle Island — a 19% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Ithaca is more affordable at $330,100 median vs $347,900.

Median household income in Ithaca is $48,617 compared to $89,702 in Middle Island (-45.8%). While Middle Island is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Ithaca spend roughly 35.6% of their income on rent, more than the 23.7% in Middle Island. The Middle Island ratio exceeds the commonly recommended 30% threshold, which can put pressure on household budgets.

Climate-wise, Middle Island is notably warmer with an average of 52.4°F compared to 45.2°F in Ithaca. Middle Island receives more rainfall at 44.2" per year compared to 41.7" in Ithaca.