Moving from New York to Boston (2026)
Boston has a COL index of 162 vs 187 for New York (100 = US average). You'd pay about 13% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$561/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
187162
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$3,500$3,000
per month
State tax
6.9%5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,309$4,428
per month
Salary needed in Boston to match your New York lifestyle
Based on the 13% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in New York | Equivalent in Boston |
|---|---|
| $40K | $34,652 |
| $50K | $43,316 |
| $60K | $51,979 |
| $75K | $64,973 |
| $80K | $69,305 |
| $100K | $86,631 |
| $120K | $103,957 |
| $150K | $129,947 |
Monthly budget at $75K — New York vs Boston
| Expense | New York | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,309 | $4,428 |
| 1BR rent | $3,500 | $3,000 |
| Groceries | $437 | $418 |
| Transport | $132 | $90 |
| Utilities | $180 | $185 |
| Internet | $75 | $70 |
| Left after essentials | $-15 | $665 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Boston cheaper than New York?
Yes. Boston has a cost of living index of 162 vs 187 for New York (100 = US average). That's about 13% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from New York to Boston?
On a $75K salary, moving from New York to Boston could save roughly $561/month on core expenses. That's ~$6,732/year.
What salary do I need in Boston to match my New York lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in New York, you'd need roughly $64,973/year in Boston. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Boston to New YorkNew York vs Boston — full comparisonNew York cost of livingBoston 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