Boston vs Madrid

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Madrid is roughly 56% more affordable than Boston (index 38 vs 85, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Madrid
More affordable overall
56% cheaper than Boston · Cost index: 38 vs 85

Life Power at $3,000/mo

The same salary ranks differently depending on where you live — from Beggar to King.

Head-to-Head Stats

85Cost Index38
5,385Median Income /mo2,200
65Safety Index71
5Income Tax %22
179Internet (Mbps)271
235Coworking /mo200

Price Breakdown

BostonCategoryMadrid
$3,477/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
65% ← cheaper
$1,200/month
$1.3/liter
Meal for One
15% ← cheaper
$1.1/liter
$18/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
33% ← cheaper
$12/meal
$90/month
Monthly Transit Pass
47% ← cheaper
$48/month
$236/month
Utilities (Monthly)
41% ← cheaper
$140/month
$120/visit
Doctor Visit
50% ← cheaper
$60/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Boston

Internet179 Mbps
Coworking$235/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishhigh
Communitygrowing
Walkability72/100

Madrid

Internet271 Mbps
Coworking$200/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishmoderate
Communitygrowing
Walkability75/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Boston cheaper than Madrid?

Madrid is cheaper than Boston. Madrid has a cost of living index of 38/100 compared to 85/100 for Boston (New York = 100), making it roughly 56% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Madrid than Boston?

Madrid is approximately 56% cheaper than Boston based on cost index scores (38 vs 85, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Boston could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $1,333/month in Madrid.

What is the rent comparison between Boston and Madrid?

In Boston, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $3,477/month. In Madrid, the equivalent is around $1,200/month.

Which city is better for digital nomads — Boston or Madrid?

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Boston offers 179 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$235/month. Madrid offers 271 Mbps and coworking at ~$200/month. Madrid has a cost advantage of 56%.

What is the average income in Boston vs Madrid?

The median net monthly salary in Boston is approximately $5,385 USD, compared to $2,200 USD in Madrid.

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