Boston, MA vs Miami, FL: 176 vs 129

$2,093/mo ↑ 26%

Median Rent

$1,657/mo ↓ 21%

$94,755/yr ↑ 60%

Median Income

$59,390/yr ↓ 37%

$710,400 ↑ 49%

Home Value

$475,200 ↓ 33%

$2,176/mo ↑ 31%

Owner Costs

$1,666/mo ↓ 23%

663,972

Population

446,663

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Boston, MA and Miami, FL, the overall cost of living indices are 176 and 129 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $436/month cheaper in Miami, saving renters about $5,232/year.

Median household income is $35,365/year higher in Boston. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Boston is $710,400 compared to $475,200 in Miami.

Florida has no state income tax, giving Miami residents a significant tax advantage over Massachusetts's 9.0% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Boston vs Miami — common questions

Is Boston or Miami cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Miami is cheaper to live in with an index of 129 compared to 176 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Boston and Miami?

Median rent in Boston is $2,093/month and in Miami it's $1,657/month — a difference of $436/month.

Which city has higher income, Boston or Miami?

Median household income is $94,755 in Boston and $59,390 in Miami. Median household income is $35,365/year higher in Boston.

How do taxes compare between Massachusetts and Florida?

Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax. Florida has 0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.86% property tax.

Should I move to Boston or Miami?

It depends on your priorities. Boston has a cost index of 176 with median rent of $2,093/mo, while Miami has a cost index of 129 with rent of $1,657/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Boston, MA vs Miami, FL (2026)

Boston

Miami

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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