Moving from Boston to Salem (2026)
Salem has a COL index of 97 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). You'd pay about 40% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$1,673/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
16297
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$3,000$1,450
per month
State tax
5%9.9%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,428$4,122
per month
Salary needed in Salem to match your Boston lifestyle
Based on the 40% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Boston | Equivalent in Salem |
|---|---|
| $40K | $23,951 |
| $50K | $29,938 |
| $60K | $35,926 |
| $75K | $44,907 |
| $80K | $47,901 |
| $100K | $59,877 |
| $120K | $71,852 |
| $150K | $89,815 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Boston vs Salem
| Expense | Boston | Salem |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,428 | $4,122 |
| 1BR rent | $3,000 | $1,450 |
| Groceries | $418 | $380 |
| Transport | $90 | $72 |
| Utilities | $185 | $125 |
| Internet | $70 | $63 |
| Left after essentials | $665 | $2,032 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Salem cheaper than Boston?
Yes. Salem has a cost of living index of 97 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). That's about 40% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Boston to Salem?
On a $75K salary, moving from Boston to Salem could save roughly $1,673/month on core expenses. That's ~$20,076/year.
What salary do I need in Salem to match my Boston lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Boston, you'd need roughly $44,907/year in Salem. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Salem to BostonBoston vs Salem — full comparisonBoston cost of livingSalem 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