Boston vs Raleigh
Cost of Living Comparison
Raleigh is 72% cheaper than Boston
Boston, MA
ExpensiveRaleigh, NC
AverageDetailed Comparison
| Category | Boston | Raleigh | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 186 | 114 | +72% |
| 1BR Rent (Monthly) | $2,730 | $1,529 | +$1,201 |
| State Income Tax | 5.0% | 5.3% | -0.2% |
| Population | 675,647 | 467,665 | — |
💰 Salary Equivalent Calculator
How much would you need to earn to maintain the same lifestyle?
$100,000 in
Boston
Equivalent to
$61,290 in Raleigh
Based on cost of living index comparison. Use our full calculator for personalized results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Boston or Raleigh cheaper to live in?▼
Raleigh is 72% cheaper to live in than Boston. The cost of living index in Raleigh is 114, compared to 186 in Boston. This means everyday expenses like groceries, transportation, and utilities cost less in Raleigh.
What is the rent difference between Boston and Raleigh?▼
A 1-bedroom apartment in Boston costs $2,730/month on average, while in Raleigh it costs $1,529/month. That's a difference of $1,201/month, or $14,412/year.
Which city has lower taxes?▼
Boston has lower state income taxes.Boston has a 5.0% state income tax rate, while Raleigh has a 5.3% rate.
What salary do I need in Raleigh to match my lifestyle in Boston?▼
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need to earn approximately $61,290 in Raleighto match a $100,000 salary in Boston. Use our full calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your actual salary and lifestyle preferences.
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