South Toms River, NJ vs Totowa, NJ

South Toms River is moderately more affordable than Totowa, with a 7.5% lower cost of living index. South Toms River scores 123 compared to 133 for Totowa, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Totowa can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in South Toms River is $2,019/month compared to $1,703/month in Totowa — a 19% difference. Interestingly, home values tell a different story: while Totowa has cheaper rent, South Toms River actually has lower median home values ($269,200 vs $507,700).

Median household income in South Toms River is $101,466 compared to $114,177 in Totowa (-11.1%). While Totowa is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of South Toms River spend roughly 23.9% of their income on rent, more than the 17.9% in Totowa.