Boston, MA vs Salem, OR: 176 vs 105

$2,093/mo ↑ 58%

Median Rent

$1,323/mo ↓ 37%

$94,755/yr ↑ 32%

Median Income

$71,900/yr ↓ 24%

$710,400 ↑ 86%

Home Value

$382,400 ↓ 46%

$2,176/mo ↑ 51%

Owner Costs

$1,440/mo ↓ 34%

663,972

Population

176,666

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Boston, MA and Salem, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 176 and 105 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $770/month cheaper in Salem, saving renters about $9,240/year.

Median household income is $22,855/year higher in Boston. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Boston is $710,400 compared to $382,400 in Salem.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Boston vs Salem — common questions

Is Boston or Salem cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Salem is cheaper to live in with an index of 105 compared to 176 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Boston and Salem?

Median rent in Boston is $2,093/month and in Salem it's $1,323/month — a difference of $770/month.

Which city has higher income, Boston or Salem?

Median household income is $94,755 in Boston and $71,900 in Salem. Median household income is $22,855/year higher in Boston.

How do taxes compare between Massachusetts and Oregon?

Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax. Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Boston or Salem?

It depends on your priorities. Boston has a cost index of 176 with median rent of $2,093/mo, while Salem has a cost index of 105 with rent of $1,323/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Boston, MA vs Salem, OR (2026)

Boston

Salem

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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