Moving from Boston to Albany (2026)
Albany has a COL index of 92 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). You'd pay about 43% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$1,665/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
16292
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$3,000$1,400
per month
State tax
5%6.9%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,428$4,309
per month
Salary needed in Albany to match your Boston lifestyle
Based on the 43% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Boston | Equivalent in Albany |
|---|---|
| $40K | $22,716 |
| $50K | $28,395 |
| $60K | $34,074 |
| $75K | $42,593 |
| $80K | $45,432 |
| $100K | $56,790 |
| $120K | $68,148 |
| $150K | $85,185 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Boston vs Albany
| Expense | Boston | Albany |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,428 | $4,309 |
| 1BR rent | $3,000 | $1,400 |
| Groceries | $418 | $380 |
| Transport | $90 | $68 |
| Utilities | $185 | $185 |
| Internet | $70 | $65 |
| Left after essentials | $665 | $2,211 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Albany cheaper than Boston?
Yes. Albany has a cost of living index of 92 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). That's about 43% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Boston to Albany?
On a $75K salary, moving from Boston to Albany could save roughly $1,665/month on core expenses. That's ~$19,980/year.
What salary do I need in Albany to match my Boston lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Boston, you'd need roughly $42,593/year in Albany. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Albany to BostonBoston vs Albany — full comparisonBoston cost of livingAlbany cost of living
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