Moving from Boston to Richmond (2026)
Richmond has a COL index of 98 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). You'd pay about 40% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$1,509/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
16298
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$3,000$1,600
per month
State tax
5%5.8%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,428$4,378
per month
Salary needed in Richmond to match your Boston lifestyle
Based on the 40% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Boston | Equivalent in Richmond |
|---|---|
| $40K | $24,198 |
| $50K | $30,247 |
| $60K | $36,296 |
| $75K | $45,370 |
| $80K | $48,395 |
| $100K | $60,494 |
| $120K | $72,593 |
| $150K | $90,741 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Boston vs Richmond
| Expense | Boston | Richmond |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,428 | $4,378 |
| 1BR rent | $3,000 | $1,600 |
| Groceries | $418 | $369 |
| Transport | $90 | $70 |
| Utilities | $185 | $155 |
| Internet | $70 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $665 | $2,124 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Richmond cheaper than Boston?
Yes. Richmond has a cost of living index of 98 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). That's about 40% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Boston to Richmond?
On a $75K salary, moving from Boston to Richmond could save roughly $1,509/month on core expenses. That's ~$18,108/year.
What salary do I need in Richmond to match my Boston lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Boston, you'd need roughly $45,370/year in Richmond. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Richmond to BostonBoston vs Richmond — full comparisonBoston cost of livingRichmond 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