Moving from Boston to Dallas (2026)
Dallas has a COL index of 99 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). You'd pay about 39% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$1,571/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
16299
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$3,000$1,500
per month
State tax
5%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,428$4,741
per month
Salary needed in Dallas to match your Boston lifestyle
Based on the 39% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Boston | Equivalent in Dallas |
|---|---|
| $40K | $24,444 |
| $50K | $30,556 |
| $60K | $36,667 |
| $75K | $45,833 |
| $80K | $48,889 |
| $100K | $61,111 |
| $120K | $73,333 |
| $150K | $91,667 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Boston vs Dallas
| Expense | Boston | Dallas |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,428 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $3,000 | $1,500 |
| Groceries | $418 | $361 |
| Transport | $90 | $96 |
| Utilities | $185 | $175 |
| Internet | $70 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $665 | $2,549 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Dallas cheaper than Boston?
Yes. Dallas has a cost of living index of 99 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). That's about 39% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Boston to Dallas?
On a $75K salary, moving from Boston to Dallas could save roughly $1,571/month on core expenses. That's ~$18,852/year.
What salary do I need in Dallas to match my Boston lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Boston, you'd need roughly $45,833/year in Dallas. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Dallas to BostonBoston vs Dallas — full comparisonBoston cost of livingDallas 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