Can I Afford to Live in Boston vs Des Moines on $100K?
Here's how a $100K/year salary plays out in both cities after taxes, rent, and core living expenses — based on Q1 2026 data.
Monthly budget breakdown
| Expense | Boston MA | Des Moines IA |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home (est.) | $5,904 | $5,846 |
| 1BR rent | $3,000 | $1,200 |
| Groceries (est.) | $418 | $365 |
| Transport (est.) | $90 | $50 |
| Utilities | $185 | $155 |
| Internet | $70 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,141/month | $4,016/month |
Frequently asked questions
Is $100K a good salary in Boston?
At $100K/year in Boston, your estimated monthly take-home is $5,904. With 1BR rent around $3,000/month, rent takes up 51% of your take-home. That's considered difficult.
Is $100K a good salary in Des Moines?
At $100K/year in Des Moines, your estimated monthly take-home is $5,846. With 1BR rent around $1,200/month, rent takes up 21% of your take-home. That's considered very comfortable.
Which city is more affordable on a $100K salary?
Des Moines leaves you with more money after core expenses — $4,016/month vs $2,141/month in Boston.
Can I afford to live alone in Boston on $100K?
It's tight. Rent in Boston would take 51% of your $100K take-home pay. You may need to find roommates or look at studios to stay within the 30% rule.
See the full cost-of-living comparison
Rent, groceries, taxes, transportation, and more — side by side.
Take-home estimates use simplified federal/state brackets and do not account for pre-tax deductions, 401(k), or local taxes. Data: Zillow, BLS, Numbeo · Q1 2026 · For general guidance only