Moving from Anchorage to Worcester (2026)

Worcester has a COL index of 108 vs 100 for Anchorage (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 8% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$2 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
100108
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,800$1,750
per month
State tax
None5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,428
per month

Salary needed in Worcester to match your Anchorage lifestyle

Based on the 8% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in AnchorageEquivalent in Worcester
$40K$43,200
$50K$54,000
$60K$64,800
$75K$81,000
$80K$86,400
$100K$108,000
$120K$129,600
$150K$162,000

Monthly budget at $75K — Anchorage vs Worcester

ExpenseAnchorageWorcester
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,428
1BR rent$1,800$1,750
Groceries$391$403
Transport$45$78
Utilities$165$190
Internet$90$68
Left after essentials$2,250$1,939

Frequently asked questions

Is Worcester cheaper than Anchorage?

No. Worcester has a cost of living index of 108 vs 100 for Anchorage (100 = US average). That's about 8% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Anchorage to Worcester?

On a $75K salary, moving from Anchorage to Worcester could save roughly $2/month on core expenses. That's ~$24/year.

What salary do I need in Worcester to match my Anchorage lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Anchorage, you'd need roughly $81,000/year in Worcester. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only