Cost of Living in Trenton-Princeton, NJ

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Trenton-Princeton? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $9,616 per year — combining federal taxes with New Jersey's state income tax. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($1,950/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Trenton-Princeton metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $36,984, or roughly $3,082 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Trenton-Princeton metro has a cost of living index of 128.1 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). At 28% above average, Trenton-Princeton is a noticeably expensive metro — groceries, services, and everyday purchases cost more than in most of the country.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Trenton-Princeton represents approximately 33% of gross income. That exceeds the conventional 30% guideline, meaning housing takes a significant share of the budget at this income level.