Boston, MA vs Santa Clara, CA: 176 vs 307

$2,093/mo ↓ 30%

Median Rent

$2,985/mo ↑ 43%

$94,755/yr ↓ 45%

Median Income

$173,670/yr ↑ 83%

$710,400 ↓ 54%

Home Value

$1,527,900 ↑ 115%

$2,176/mo ↓ 29%

Owner Costs

$3,051/mo ↑ 40%

663,972

Population

129,239

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Boston, MA and Santa Clara, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 176 and 307 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $892/month cheaper in Boston, saving renters about $10,704/year.

Median household income is $78,915/year higher in Santa Clara. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Boston is $710,400 compared to $1,527,900 in Santa Clara.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Boston vs Santa Clara — common questions

Is Boston or Santa Clara cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Boston is cheaper to live in with an index of 176 compared to 307 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Boston and Santa Clara?

Median rent in Boston is $2,093/month and in Santa Clara it's $2,985/month — a difference of $892/month.

Which city has higher income, Boston or Santa Clara?

Median household income is $94,755 in Boston and $173,670 in Santa Clara. Median household income is $78,915/year higher in Santa Clara.

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 Santa Clara?

It depends on your priorities. Boston has a cost index of 176 with median rent of $2,093/mo, while Santa Clara has a cost index of 307 with rent of $2,985/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Boston

Santa Clara

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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