Cost of living in Ithaca
Ithaca, located in the heart of New York State, is known for its vibrant college town atmosphere and stunning natural beauty. Understanding the cost of living in Ithaca is crucial for anyone considering moving to or residing in this charming city.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the expenses you can expect, from dining and groceries to housing and transportation, helping you make informed financial decisions.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $18 on average, with a range between $10 and $25.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $65, with prices ranging from $50 to $100.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $7, with a range between $7 and $13.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $3 to $8, imported beer $3 to $12, cappuccino $5 to $12, and Coke/Pepsi $2 to $4.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $0.87 and $1.06 per liter, averaging $1.01.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $2.65 and $6.61, with an average price of $4.05.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $3.5 to $7, averaging $3.5.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $3.95 to $8.82 per kg, while oranges range from $2.2 to $19.84 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $2.2 and $11.02 per kg, and lettuce costs $1.25 to $6 per head.
Transportation
- Public Transport (One-Way Ticket) - A one-way local transport ticket costs between $1.5 and $2.59, with a monthly pass priced between $45 and $50.
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $0.89 and $1.05 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $5, with a cost of $1.09 to $1.7 per km and $25 to $30 per hour of waiting.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $1200 to $2000, averaging $1475.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $800 to $1300, averaging $950.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $2400 to $3000, averaging $2600.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $1600 to $2400, averaging $2000.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (City Centre) - The price per square meter to buy an apartment in the city centre averages $1948.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, the price per square meter also averages $1948.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $163.72 and $260, averaging $211.42.
- Internet - Internet services range from $55 to $110, with an average cost of $66.
Cost of Living Rankings
The cost of living indices for the United States are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in United States, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.
Cost of Living Data
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"Key Takeaways"
Ithaca offers a moderate cost of living with affordable dining options and reasonable grocery prices. Housing costs vary significantly between the city centre and outside areas, providing options for different budgets.
Transportation is relatively inexpensive, with affordable public transport and fuel prices. Utilities and internet costs are moderate, aligning with national averages.
Conclusion
Overall, Ithaca presents a balanced cost of living, making it an attractive option for students, professionals, and families alike. The city's diverse housing options and affordable transportation contribute to its appeal.
Prospective residents should consider their lifestyle preferences and budget to make the most of what Ithaca has to offer.