Moving from Boston to Boulder (2026)
Boulder has a COL index of 132 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). You'd pay about 19% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$763/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
162132
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$3,000$2,300
per month
State tax
5%4.4%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,428$4,466
per month
Salary needed in Boulder to match your Boston lifestyle
Based on the 19% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Boston | Equivalent in Boulder |
|---|---|
| $40K | $32,593 |
| $50K | $40,741 |
| $60K | $48,889 |
| $75K | $61,111 |
| $80K | $65,185 |
| $100K | $81,481 |
| $120K | $97,778 |
| $150K | $122,222 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Boston vs Boulder
| Expense | Boston | Boulder |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,428 | $4,466 |
| 1BR rent | $3,000 | $2,300 |
| Groceries | $418 | $414 |
| Transport | $90 | $80 |
| Utilities | $185 | $138 |
| Internet | $70 | $68 |
| Left after essentials | $665 | $1,466 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Boulder cheaper than Boston?
Yes. Boulder has a cost of living index of 132 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). That's about 19% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Boston to Boulder?
On a $75K salary, moving from Boston to Boulder could save roughly $763/month on core expenses. That's ~$9,156/year.
What salary do I need in Boulder to match my Boston lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Boston, you'd need roughly $61,111/year in Boulder. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Boulder to BostonBoston vs Boulder — full comparisonBoston cost of livingBoulder 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