New York vs Seattle
Side-by-side rent vs buy analysis comparing these two markets
Overall Comparison
New York has an edge
New York edges ahead based on overall market conditions.
Median Home Price
$760,000
Median Rent
$3,450/mo
Price-to-Rent RatioBETTER
18.4
Property Tax Rate
1.72%
Price Change (1Y)
+3.3%
Price Change (5Y)
+21.0%
Break-Even YearsBETTER
8 years
10-Year Wealth DifferenceBETTER
+$20,000
Median Home PriceBETTER
$710,000
Median RentBETTER
$2,250/mo
Price-to-Rent Ratio
26.3
Property Tax RateBETTER
0.98%
Price Change (1Y)BETTER
+4.0%
Price Change (5Y)BETTER
+32.0%
Break-Even Years
13 years
10-Year Wealth Difference
$75,000
Key Differences
Home Prices
New York's median home price of $760,000 is higher than Seattle's $710,000 by 7%.
Monthly Rent
Renting in New York costs $3,450/mo compared to $2,250/mo in Seattle—a difference of $1,200/mo.
Buy vs Rent Verdict
New York favors either option, while Seattle favors renting.
Break-Even Timeline
Buying breaks even in 8 years in New York vs 13 years in Seattle.
Run Your Own Numbers
This comparison uses median values. Your income, savings, and goals matter. Use our Buy vs Rent calculator to get a personalized analysis.