Moving from Boston to West Palm Beach (2026)
West Palm Beach has a COL index of 117 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). You'd pay about 28% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in West Palm Beach to match your Boston lifestyle
Based on the 28% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Boston | Equivalent in West Palm Beach |
|---|---|
| $40K | $28,889 |
| $50K | $36,111 |
| $60K | $43,333 |
| $75K | $54,167 |
| $80K | $57,778 |
| $100K | $72,222 |
| $120K | $86,667 |
| $150K | $108,333 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Boston vs West Palm Beach
| Expense | Boston | West Palm Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,428 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $3,000 | $2,400 |
| Groceries | $418 | $403 |
| Transport | $90 | $112 |
| Utilities | $185 | $200 |
| Internet | $70 | $70 |
| Left after essentials | $665 | $1,556 |
Frequently asked questions
Is West Palm Beach cheaper than Boston?
Yes. West Palm Beach has a cost of living index of 117 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). That's about 28% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Boston to West Palm Beach?
On a $75K salary, moving from Boston to West Palm Beach could save roughly $578/month on core expenses. That's ~$6,936/year.
What salary do I need in West Palm Beach to match my Boston lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Boston, you'd need roughly $54,167/year in West Palm Beach. 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