Cost of Living in Ithaca, NY

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Ithaca? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $10,486 per year — combining federal taxes with New York's state income tax. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($1,753/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Ithaca metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $38,478, or roughly $3,207 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Ithaca metro has a cost of living index of 101.3 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). Ithaca sits close to the national average, meaning everyday expenses are broadly in line with what you'd find across most U.S. cities.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Ithaca represents approximately 30% of gross income. That exceeds the conventional 30% guideline, meaning housing takes a significant share of the budget at this income level.