Cost of Living in Boston, MA
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
180.6
100 = national avg
+80.6 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$79,458
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$187,809
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing272.1
Food122.4
Transportation124.4
Healthcare117.9
Utilities147.9
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$2,476
per month
2 Bedroom
$2,941
per month
The overall cost of living index in Boston is 180.6, which is 80.6% above the national average. Housing costs are above the national average at an index of 272.1. A single adult needs to earn approximately $79,458 per year to cover basic expenses.