Moving from Boston to Dayton (2026)
Dayton has a COL index of 83 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). You'd pay about 49% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$2,022/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
16283
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$3,000$1,100
per month
State tax
5%3.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,428$4,522
per month
Salary needed in Dayton to match your Boston lifestyle
Based on the 49% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Boston | Equivalent in Dayton |
|---|---|
| $40K | $20,494 |
| $50K | $25,617 |
| $60K | $30,741 |
| $75K | $38,426 |
| $80K | $40,988 |
| $100K | $51,235 |
| $120K | $61,481 |
| $150K | $76,852 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Boston vs Dayton
| Expense | Boston | Dayton |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,428 | $4,522 |
| 1BR rent | $3,000 | $1,100 |
| Groceries | $418 | $361 |
| Transport | $90 | $60 |
| Utilities | $185 | $162 |
| Internet | $70 | $58 |
| Left after essentials | $665 | $2,781 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Dayton cheaper than Boston?
Yes. Dayton has a cost of living index of 83 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). That's about 49% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Boston to Dayton?
On a $75K salary, moving from Boston to Dayton could save roughly $2,022/month on core expenses. That's ~$24,264/year.
What salary do I need in Dayton to match my Boston lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Boston, you'd need roughly $38,426/year in Dayton. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Dayton to BostonBoston vs Dayton — full comparisonBoston cost of livingDayton 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