Moving from Boston to Rochester (2026)
Rochester has a COL index of 94 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). You'd pay about 42% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Rochester to match your Boston lifestyle
Based on the 42% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Boston | Equivalent in Rochester |
|---|---|
| $40K | $23,210 |
| $50K | $29,012 |
| $60K | $34,815 |
| $75K | $43,519 |
| $80K | $46,420 |
| $100K | $58,025 |
| $120K | $69,630 |
| $150K | $87,037 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Boston vs Rochester
| Expense | Boston | Rochester |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,428 | $4,122 |
| 1BR rent | $3,000 | $1,400 |
| Groceries | $418 | $380 |
| Transport | $90 | $55 |
| Utilities | $185 | $168 |
| Internet | $70 | $62 |
| Left after essentials | $665 | $2,057 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Rochester cheaper than Boston?
Yes. Rochester has a cost of living index of 94 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). That's about 42% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Boston to Rochester?
On a $75K salary, moving from Boston to Rochester could save roughly $1,698/month on core expenses. That's ~$20,376/year.
What salary do I need in Rochester to match my Boston lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Boston, you'd need roughly $43,519/year in Rochester. 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