Boston, MA vs Irvine, CA: 176 vs 256

$2,093/mo ↓ 28%

Median Rent

$2,893/mo ↑ 38%

$94,755/yr ↓ 27%

Median Income

$129,647/yr ↑ 37%

$710,400 ↓ 36%

Home Value

$1,115,400 ↑ 57%

$2,176/mo ↓ 25%

Owner Costs

$2,904/mo ↑ 33%

663,972

Population

308,160

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Boston, MA and Irvine, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 176 and 256 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $800/month cheaper in Boston, saving renters about $9,600/year.

Median household income is $34,892/year higher in Irvine. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Boston is $710,400 compared to $1,115,400 in Irvine.

Massachusetts has a lower income tax rate, making Boston slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Boston vs Irvine — common questions

Is Boston or Irvine cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Boston is cheaper to live in with an index of 176 compared to 256 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Boston and Irvine?

Median rent in Boston is $2,093/month and in Irvine it's $2,893/month — a difference of $800/month.

Which city has higher income, Boston or Irvine?

Median household income is $94,755 in Boston and $129,647 in Irvine. Median household income is $34,892/year higher in Irvine.

How do taxes compare between Massachusetts and California?

Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Boston or Irvine?

It depends on your priorities. Boston has a cost index of 176 with median rent of $2,093/mo, while Irvine has a cost index of 256 with rent of $2,893/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Boston, MA vs Irvine, CA (2026)

Boston

Irvine

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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