Moving from Boston to Indianapolis (2026)
Indianapolis has a COL index of 89 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). You'd pay about 45% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Indianapolis to match your Boston lifestyle
Based on the 45% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Boston | Equivalent in Indianapolis |
|---|---|
| $40K | $21,975 |
| $50K | $27,469 |
| $60K | $32,963 |
| $75K | $41,204 |
| $80K | $43,951 |
| $100K | $54,938 |
| $120K | $65,926 |
| $150K | $82,407 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Boston vs Indianapolis
| Expense | Boston | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,428 | $4,541 |
| 1BR rent | $3,000 | $1,200 |
| Groceries | $418 | $357 |
| Transport | $90 | $60 |
| Utilities | $185 | $155 |
| Internet | $70 | $55 |
| Left after essentials | $665 | $2,714 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Indianapolis cheaper than Boston?
Yes. Indianapolis has a cost of living index of 89 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). That's about 45% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Boston to Indianapolis?
On a $75K salary, moving from Boston to Indianapolis could save roughly $1,936/month on core expenses. That's ~$23,232/year.
What salary do I need in Indianapolis to match my Boston lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Boston, you'd need roughly $41,204/year in Indianapolis. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
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