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Boston (Greater Boston) has a cost of living 62% above the US average. Combined with MA's state income tax, your real purchasing power can be very different from your gross salary.
162
Cost of Living Index
US avg = 100
$2,800
Avg 1BR Rent
per month
5%
State Income Tax
top rate
+62%
vs US Average
cost of living
| Salary | Monthly Take-Home | Rent % of Income | Equivalent US Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| $40,000 | $2,677/mo | 105% | $24,691 |
| $50,000 | $3,305/mo | 85% | $30,864 |
| $60,000 | $3,933/mo | 71% | $37,037 |
| $70,000 | $4,492/mo | 62% | $43,210 |
| $80,000 | $5,037/mo | 56% | $49,383 |
| $90,000 | $5,581/mo | 50% | $55,556 |
| $100,000 | $6,126/mo | 46% | $61,728 |
| $120,000 | $7,207/mo | 39% | $74,074 |
| $150,000 | $8,791/mo | 32% | $92,593 |
| $200,000 | $11,592/mo | 24% | $123,457 |
* Take-home estimates federal + state taxes (single filer, standard deduction). "Equivalent US Salary" = what Boston salary buys nationally.
Is $80,000 a good salary in Boston?
In Boston (cost of living index: 162, US avg=100), $80,000/year has the purchasing power of $49,383 in an average US city. Your monthly take-home after federal + state taxes is approximately $5,037. The average 1-bedroom in Boston costs around $2,800/month — that's 56% of your take-home pay.
What is the cost of living in Boston?
Boston's cost of living index is 162 compared to the US average of 100. This means living in Boston is 62% more expensive than the US average. MA also has a state income tax of up to 5%.
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Boston?
Using the 30% rent rule, your gross salary should be at least $145,600 to afford the average 1-bedroom in Boston ($2,800/month) with some comfort. A household income of $129,600 or more is generally considered comfortable in Boston.
Does Boston have a state income tax?
Yes — MA has a state income tax. For most earners, the effective state rate is around 5%. This reduces your take-home pay compared to no-income-tax states like Texas, Florida, or Nevada.
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