Cost of Living in Highland, NY

With a cost of living index of 112, Highland, NY is somewhat more expensive than average. Living here is 12% more expensive than the national average and in line with the New York state average. Highland is a smaller community of 6,321 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Highland's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,569 (19% above the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $364,000 (19% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3.7x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Highland is $99,010, which is 32% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 19% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. While incomes are above average, they more than offset the higher cost of living.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Highland. The area sees an average annual temperature of 50.5°F, with summers averaging 71°F and winters around 29°F. Annual rainfall totals 41.9 inches spread over roughly 132 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

Everyday prices in the Kingston, 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.