Cost of Living in Binghamton, NY

With a cost of living index of 68, Binghamton, NY is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 32% cheaper than the national average and 43% below the New York state average of 111. With a population of 47,357, Binghamton is a mid-sized community that balances access to services with a more manageable cost of living compared to larger metros.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Binghamton's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $867 (34% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $117,400 (61% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.6x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Binghamton is $44,331, which is 41% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 23% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Binghamton. The area sees an average annual temperature of 46.3°F, with summers averaging 67°F and winters around 25°F. Annual rainfall totals 42 inches spread over roughly 164 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

Everyday prices in the Binghamton, NY (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area are generally below the national average. Out of 6 common items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 5 are priced lower than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.