2026 Compare Cities Cost of Living:
Buffalo, NY vs Arcata, CA

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Highlights
Is it cheaper to live in Arcata or is it cheaper to live in Buffalo?
- Arcata is 17.3% more expensive than Buffalo.

Which city has more affordable housing, Arcata or Buffalo?
- Arcata housing costs are 117.2% more expensive than Buffalo housing costs.

Is Health Care more affordable in Buffalo or is Health Care more affordable in Arcata.
- Health related expenses are 11.9% more in Arcata.
 Buffalo, NYArcata, CAUnited States
 Overall  Unlock108.0100
 Food & Groceries98.5  Unlock100
 Health  Unlock117.7100
 Housing62.8  Unlock100
 Median Home Cost  Unlock$444,300$338,100
 Utilities107  Unlock100
 Transportation  Unlock81.2100
 Miscellaneous130.0  Unlock100
100 = National Average (Below 100 means cheaper than the US average. Above 100 means more expensive.)
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Reviews for Buffalo    94 Reviews

Over 4 years ago

Clean, fun, safe and unique. Great place to raise a family. Affordable housing, strong job market. Great schools and neighborhoods.  More

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Over 4 years ago

Buffalo was okay in 2016. Since then, crime is up, there are more methadone clinics than pediatricians, and so many of the small businesses that made this place charming  More

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Over 4 years ago

This city is just plain beautiful. Sure, it might not be New York or Albany. But it's Buffalo. Place is a God-send. You want to see the Falls and the Bills? Come here.  More

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Reviews for Arcata    17 Reviews

Pros: Nature hikes Cons: One of highest crime rates in the nation. Opioid epidemic going on (you’ll regularly witness drug deals and ppl doing drugs) No  More

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It takes a special set of preferences to select Arcata. Is this you? - You love clouds and fog. You are happy if you see the sun maybe 10-20 times a year. - Chilly  More

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Over 12 years ago

I've lived in Humboldt for over 30 yrs and know all the areas well. Arcata is the jewel of Humboldt due to having a university and many liberal creative people. There is  More

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