Can I Afford to Live in Boston vs Mexico City on $75K?

Here's how a $75K/year salary plays out in both cities after taxes, rent, and core living expenses — based on Q1 2026 data.

Boston, MA
$4,428/mo take-home
Rent: $3,000/mo (68% of take-home)
Difficult
Mexico City, MX
$4,741/mo take-home
Rent: $700/mo (15% of take-home)
Very comfortable

Monthly budget breakdown

Boston
MA
Mexico City
MX
Monthly take-home (est.)
$4,428
$4,741Best ✓
1BR rent
$3,000
$700Best ✓
Groceries (est.)
$418
$380Best ✓
Transport (est.)
$90Best ✓
$150
Utilities
$185
$55Best ✓
Internet
$70
$25Best ✓
Left after essentials
$665/month
$3,431/month
Mexico City (CDMX) has no state income tax, boosting take-home vs Boston (MA rate: 5%).

Frequently asked questions

Is $75K a good salary in Boston?

At $75K/year in Boston, your estimated monthly take-home is $4,428. With 1BR rent around $3,000/month, rent takes up 68% of your take-home. That's considered difficult.

Is $75K a good salary in Mexico City?

At $75K/year in Mexico City, your estimated monthly take-home is $4,741. With 1BR rent around $700/month, rent takes up 15% of your take-home. That's considered very comfortable.

Which city is more affordable on a $75K salary?

Mexico City leaves you with more money after core expenses — $3,431/month vs $665/month in Boston.

Can I afford to live alone in Boston on $75K?

It's tight. Rent in Boston would take 68% of your $75K take-home pay. You may need to find roommates or look at studios to stay within the 30% rule.

Compare other salary bands — Boston vs Mexico City

$40K$50K$60K$80K$100K$120K$150K

See the full cost-of-living comparison

Rent, groceries, taxes, transportation, and more — side by side.

Full comparison

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