Moving from Minneapolis to Boston (2026)

Boston has a COL index of 162 vs 106 for Minneapolis (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 53% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$994 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
106 โ†’ 162
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,700 โ†’ $3,000
per month
State tax
9.9% โ†’ 5%
income tax
COL difference
106 โ†’ 162
53% more expensive

Salary needed in Boston to match your Minneapolis lifestyle

Based on the 53% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in MinneapolisEquivalent in Boston
$40K$61,132
$50K$76,415
$60K$91,698
$75K$114,623
$80K$122,264
$100K$152,830
$120K$183,396
$150K$229,245

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Pay ~$1,317/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Minneapolis vs Boston

ExpenseMinneapolisBoston
Monthly take-home$4,122$4,428
1BR rent$1,700$3,000
Groceries$391$418
Transport$95$90
Utilities$195$185
Internet$65$70
Left after essentials$1,676$665

Frequently asked questions

Is Boston cheaper than Minneapolis?

No. Boston has a cost of living index of 162 vs 106 for Minneapolis (100 = US average). That's about 53% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Minneapolis to Boston?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Boston run about $994/month more than Minneapolis. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Boston to match my Minneapolis lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Minneapolis, you'd need roughly $114,623/year in Boston. This is based on the overall COL index difference.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow ยท BLS ยท Numbeo ยท For general guidance only