Boston vs Rome

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Rome is roughly 52% more affordable than Boston (index 41 vs 85, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Rome
More affordable overall
52% cheaper than Boston · Cost index: 41 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 Index41
5,385Median Income /mo2,200
65Safety Index75
5Income Tax %33
179Internet (Mbps)80
235Coworking /mo200

Price Breakdown

BostonCategoryRome
$3,477/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
59% ← cheaper
$1,430/month
$1.3/liter
Meal for One
23% ← cheaper
$1/liter
$18/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
11% ← cheaper
$16/meal
$90/month
Monthly Transit Pass
54% ← cheaper
$41/month
$236/month
Utilities (Monthly)
8% ← cheaper
$216/month
$120/visit
Doctor Visit
50% ← cheaper
$60/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Boston

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

Rome

Internet80 Mbps
Coworking$200/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishmoderate
Communitygrowing
Walkability72/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Boston cheaper than Rome?

Rome is cheaper than Boston. Rome has a cost of living index of 41/100 compared to 85/100 for Boston (New York = 100), making it roughly 52% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Rome than Boston?

Rome is approximately 52% cheaper than Boston based on cost index scores (41 vs 85, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Boston could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $1,431/month in Rome.

What is the rent comparison between Boston and Rome?

In Boston, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $3,477/month. In Rome, the equivalent is around $1,430/month.

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

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Boston offers 179 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$235/month. Rome offers 80 Mbps and coworking at ~$200/month. Rome has a cost advantage of 52%.

What is the average income in Boston vs Rome?

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

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