Cost of Living: Boston, MA vs Spokane, WA (2026)

Boston

Massachusetts
176
VS

Spokane

Washington
90

Boston is 96% more expensive than Spokane.

$2,093/mo ↑ 83%
Median Rent
$1,141/mo ↓ 45%
$94,755/yr ↑ 44%
Median Income
$65,745/yr ↓ 31%
$710,400 ↑ 118%
Home Value
$326,200 ↓ 54%
$2,176/mo ↑ 79%
Owner Costs
$1,213/mo ↓ 44%
663,972
Population
229,228

Tax Comparison

9.0%
Income Tax
0%
6.25%
State Sales Tax
6.5%
1.15%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

26.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
20.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Boston, MA and Spokane, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 176 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $952/month cheaper in Spokane, saving renters about $11,424/year.

Median household income is $29,010/year higher in Boston. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Boston is $710,400 compared to $326,200 in Spokane.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Boston vs Spokane — common questions

Is Boston or Spokane cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Spokane is cheaper to live in with an index of 90 compared to 176 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Boston and Spokane?
Median rent in Boston is $2,093/month and in Spokane it's $1,141/month — a difference of $952/month.
Which city has higher income, Boston or Spokane?
Median household income is $94,755 in Boston and $65,745 in Spokane. Median household income is $29,010/year higher in Boston.
How do taxes compare between Massachusetts and Washington?
Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Boston or Spokane?
It depends on your priorities. Boston has a cost index of 176 with median rent of $2,093/mo, while Spokane has a cost index of 90 with rent of $1,141/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Boston details → View Spokane details →

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