Boston, MA vs Santa Rosa, CA: 176 vs 172

$2,093/mo ≈ Same

Median Rent

$2,084/mo ≈ Same

$94,755/yr ↓ 3%

Median Income

$97,410/yr ↑ 3%

$710,400 ↑ 4%

Home Value

$685,000 ↓ 4%

$2,176/mo ↑ 2%

Owner Costs

$2,130/mo ↓ 2%

663,972

Population

177,216

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Boston, MA and Santa Rosa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 176 and 172 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $2,655/year higher in Santa Rosa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Boston is $710,400 compared to $685,000 in Santa Rosa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Boston vs Santa Rosa — common questions

Is Boston or Santa Rosa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Santa Rosa is cheaper to live in with an index of 172 compared to 176 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Boston and Santa Rosa?

Median rent in Boston is $2,093/month and in Santa Rosa it's $2,084/month — a difference of $9/month.

Which city has higher income, Boston or Santa Rosa?

Median household income is $94,755 in Boston and $97,410 in Santa Rosa. Median household income is $2,655/year higher in Santa Rosa.

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 Rosa?

It depends on your priorities. Boston has a cost index of 176 with median rent of $2,093/mo, while Santa Rosa has a cost index of 172 with rent of $2,084/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Boston

Santa Rosa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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