Cost of Living: Washington, DC vs Boston, MA (2026)

Washington

District of Columbia

171

Boston

Massachusetts

176

Washington is 5% cheaper than Boston.

$1,900/mo ↓ 9%

Median Rent

$2,093/mo ↑ 10%

$106,287/yr ↑ 12%

Median Income

$94,755/yr ↓ 11%

$724,600 ↑ 2%

Home Value

$710,400 ↓ 2%

$2,103/mo ↓ 3%

Owner Costs

$2,176/mo ↑ 3%

672,079

Population

663,972

Tax Comparison

10.75%

Income Tax

9.0%

6.0%

Sales Tax

6.25%

0.56%

Property Tax

1.15%

Affordability

21.5%

rent-to-income

Affordability

26.5%

rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Washington, DC and Boston, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 171 and 176 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $193/month cheaper in Washington, saving renters about $2,316/year.

Median household income is $11,532/year higher in Washington. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Washington is $724,600 compared to $710,400 in Boston.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Washington vs Boston — common questions

Is Washington or Boston cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Washington is cheaper to live in with an index of 171 compared to 176 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Washington and Boston?

Median rent in Washington is $1,900/month and in Boston it's $2,093/month — a difference of $193/month.

Which city has higher income, Washington or Boston?

Median household income is $106,287 in Washington and $94,755 in Boston. Median household income is $11,532/year higher in Washington.

How do taxes compare between District of Columbia and Massachusetts?

District of Columbia has 10.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.56% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.

Should I move to Washington or Boston?

It depends on your priorities. Washington has a cost index of 171 with median rent of $1,900/mo, while Boston has a cost index of 176 with rent of $2,093/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.