Boston vs Seattle

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Seattle is roughly 1% more affordable than Boston (index 144 vs 146, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Seattle
More affordable overall
1% cheaper than Boston · Cost index: 144 vs 146

Head-to-Head Stats

146Cost Index144
5,333Median Income /mo6,429
68Safety Index40
21.3Income Tax %0
150Internet (Mbps)150
350Coworking /mo350

Price Breakdown

BostonCategorySeattle
$3,400/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
30% ← cheaper
$2,365/month
$1.28/liter
Meal for One
74% cheaper →
$4.84/liter
$18/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
$18/meal
$90/month
Monthly Transit Pass
9% cheaper →
$99/month
$330/month
Utilities (Monthly)
37% ← cheaper
$208/month
$206/visit
Doctor Visit
42% ← cheaper
$120/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Boston

Internet150 Mbps
Coworking$350/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability78/100

Seattle

Internet150 Mbps
Coworking$350/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability72/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Boston cheaper than Seattle?

Seattle is cheaper than Boston. Seattle has a cost of living index of 144/100 compared to 146/100 for Boston, making it roughly 1% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Seattle than Boston?

Seattle is approximately 1% cheaper than Boston based on cost index scores (144 vs 146, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Boston could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,959/month in Seattle.

What is the rent comparison between Boston and Seattle?

In Boston, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $3,400/month. In Seattle, the equivalent is around $2,365/month.

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

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Boston offers 150 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$350/month. Seattle offers 150 Mbps and coworking at ~$350/month. Seattle has a cost advantage of 1%.

What is the average income in Boston vs Seattle?

The median net monthly salary in Boston is approximately $5,333 USD, compared to $6,429 USD in Seattle.

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