Moving from Boston to Louisville (2026)

Louisville has a COL index of 88 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). You'd pay about 46% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$1,820/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
16288
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$3,000$1,300
per month
State tax
5%4%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,428$4,491
per month

Salary needed in Louisville to match your Boston lifestyle

Based on the 46% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in BostonEquivalent in Louisville
$40K$21,728
$50K$27,160
$60K$32,593
$75K$40,741
$80K$43,457
$100K$54,321
$120K$65,185
$150K$81,481

Monthly budget at $75K — Boston vs Louisville

ExpenseBostonLouisville
Monthly take-home$4,428$4,491
1BR rent$3,000$1,300
Groceries$418$361
Transport$90$60
Utilities$185$162
Internet$70$60
Left after essentials$665$2,548

Frequently asked questions

Is Louisville cheaper than Boston?

Yes. Louisville has a cost of living index of 88 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). That's about 46% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Boston to Louisville?

On a $75K salary, moving from Boston to Louisville could save roughly $1,820/month on core expenses. That's ~$21,840/year.

What salary do I need in Louisville to match my Boston lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Boston, you'd need roughly $40,741/year in Louisville. 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