Moving from Boston to Tacoma (2026)
Tacoma has a COL index of 114 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). You'd pay about 30% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$1,193/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
162114
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$3,000$1,900
per month
State tax
5%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,428$4,741
per month
Salary needed in Tacoma to match your Boston lifestyle
Based on the 30% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Boston | Equivalent in Tacoma |
|---|---|
| $40K | $28,148 |
| $50K | $35,185 |
| $60K | $42,222 |
| $75K | $52,778 |
| $80K | $56,296 |
| $100K | $70,370 |
| $120K | $84,444 |
| $150K | $105,556 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Boston vs Tacoma
| Expense | Boston | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,428 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $3,000 | $1,900 |
| Groceries | $418 | $399 |
| Transport | $90 | $90 |
| Utilities | $185 | $118 |
| Internet | $70 | $63 |
| Left after essentials | $665 | $2,171 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Tacoma cheaper than Boston?
Yes. Tacoma has a cost of living index of 114 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). That's about 30% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Boston to Tacoma?
On a $75K salary, moving from Boston to Tacoma could save roughly $1,193/month on core expenses. That's ~$14,316/year.
What salary do I need in Tacoma to match my Boston lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Boston, you'd need roughly $52,778/year in Tacoma. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Tacoma to BostonBoston vs Tacoma — full comparisonBoston cost of livingTacoma 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