Boston
Massachusetts state data
High tax burden · COL index 148
Wins 8 categories
Washington DC
District of Columbia state data
High tax burden · COL index 152
Wins 4 categories
Data reflects Massachusetts vs District of Columbia state-level figures. City-specific data coming soon.
Taxes
Housing & Cost of Living
Crime & Safety
Healthcare
Education
Childcare
Utilities & Daily Costs
Social Policy
Category wins
8
Boston
4
Washington DC
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Is it cheaper to live in DC or Boston?
Is it more expensive to live in Boston or Washington? Overall cost of living in Washington, DC is 7.2% lower than in Boston, MA. The average listing price for a home in Washington, DC is $1,085,511, which is 0.3% lower than Boston, MA. The average cost of groceries in Washington, DC is 2.1% higher than Boston, MA.
Is $70,000 enough to live in Boston?
Yes, if you're mindful. A $70,000 salary translates to roughly $4,400/month after taxes. By budgeting around your biggest expenses—rent and transportation—you can live comfortably and even save a bit. The key is choosing the right neighborhood and keeping lifestyle inflation in check.
Is $90,000 a good salary in DC?
90K Salary in Washington, DC The median wage is $80.6K / yr. $94K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
Why are people moving away from DC?
For instance, many young couples leave DC to buy homes in places like Raleigh or Pittsburgh, where housing is more budget-friendly. Retirement also plays a role. Some older adults move to Florida or the Carolinas to enjoy a lower cost of living and warmer weather. Others want to live closer to family.