salaryArlington is 5% cheaperBased on official 2024 price levels from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
I need in Boston to live the same way.
🏠 Rent per month
$1,648
$3,112
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,611
$2,480
💵 Families earn per year
$81,072
$104,986
🔑 Buying a house
$304,700
$731,700
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
103.1
108.3
🏛️ Property tax per year
$4,716
$4,456
⚡ Electric bill per month
$194
$113
👥 People living there
397,742
666,442
Commute to work
26.6 min
30.3 min
College degree
32.6%
54.9%
Own their home
54.3%
35.7%
Below poverty line
12.9%
16.6%
Unemployment
5.7%
6.1%
Bottom line
- Pick Arlington for lower rent, cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, cheaper homes and 3 more.
- Pick Boston for higher incomes, a more educated workforce.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Arlington | Boston | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Server (Waiter/Waitress) | $24,160 | $39,270 | +63% in Boston |
| Plumber | $61,250 | $96,760 | +58% in Boston |
| Carpenter | $48,740 | $75,210 | +54% in Boston |
| Elementary School Teacher | $65,070 | $98,060 | +51% in Boston |
| Market Research Analyst | $75,240 | $102,390 | +36% in Boston |
| Electrician | $59,010 | $79,910 | +35% in Boston |
| HVAC Technician | $59,560 | $78,530 | +32% in Boston |
| Licensed Practical Nurse | $64,370 | $82,190 | +28% in Boston |
Frequently asked questions
Is Arlington or Boston cheaper to live in?
Arlington is about 5% cheaper overall. Rent is $1,648 a month there versus $3,112 in Boston.
What salary do I need in Boston to match $60,000 in Arlington?
About $63,013 a year gives the same standard of living in Boston.
Where do people earn more, Arlington or Boston?
The typical household earns $81,072 in Arlington and $104,986 in Boston, 23% more in Boston.