Moving from Boston to Durham (2026)
Durham has a COL index of 102 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). You'd pay about 37% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$1,342/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
162102
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$3,000$1,750
per month
State tax
5%4.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,428$4,459
per month
Salary needed in Durham to match your Boston lifestyle
Based on the 37% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Boston | Equivalent in Durham |
|---|---|
| $40K | $25,185 |
| $50K | $31,481 |
| $60K | $37,778 |
| $75K | $47,222 |
| $80K | $50,370 |
| $100K | $62,963 |
| $120K | $75,556 |
| $150K | $94,444 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Boston vs Durham
| Expense | Boston | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,428 | $4,459 |
| 1BR rent | $3,000 | $1,750 |
| Groceries | $418 | $372 |
| Transport | $90 | $82 |
| Utilities | $185 | $155 |
| Internet | $70 | $62 |
| Left after essentials | $665 | $2,038 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Durham cheaper than Boston?
Yes. Durham has a cost of living index of 102 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). That's about 37% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Boston to Durham?
On a $75K salary, moving from Boston to Durham could save roughly $1,342/month on core expenses. That's ~$16,104/year.
What salary do I need in Durham to match my Boston lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Boston, you'd need roughly $47,222/year in Durham. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Durham to BostonBoston vs Durham — full comparisonBoston cost of livingDurham 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