salaryBoston is 3% cheaperBased on official 2024 price levels from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
I need in San Diego to live the same way.
🏠 Rent per month
$3,112
$3,011
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$2,480
$2,589
💵 Families earn per year
$104,986
$116,561
🔑 Buying a house
$731,700
$906,700
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
108.3
111.9
🏛️ Property tax per year
$4,456
$5,945
⚡ Electric bill per month
$113
$131
👥 People living there
666,442
1,389,526
Commute to work
30.3 min
23.5 min
College degree
54.9%
51%
Own their home
35.7%
47.3%
Below poverty line
16.6%
11%
Unemployment
6.1%
6%
Bottom line
- Pick Boston for cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, cheaper homes, a more educated workforce.
- Pick San Diego for lower rent, higher incomes, shorter commutes and 2 more.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Boston | San Diego | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Police Officer | $78,180 | $110,400 | +41% in San Diego |
| Registered Nurse | $106,180 | $139,520 | +31% in San Diego |
| Plumber | $96,760 | $72,510 | -25% in San Diego |
| Market Research Analyst | $102,390 | $79,440 | -22% in San Diego |
| Dental Hygienist | $101,990 | $123,790 | +21% in San Diego |
| Pharmacist | $139,660 | $165,130 | +18% in San Diego |
| Physician Assistant | $142,410 | $165,160 | +16% in San Diego |
| Nurse Practitioner | $147,480 | $163,860 | +11% in San Diego |
Frequently asked questions
Is Boston or San Diego cheaper to live in?
Boston is about 3% cheaper overall. Rent is $3,112 a month there versus $3,011 in San Diego.
What salary do I need in San Diego to match $60,000 in Boston?
About $62,007 a year gives the same standard of living in San Diego.
Where do people earn more, Boston or San Diego?
The typical household earns $104,986 in Boston and $116,561 in San Diego, 10% more in San Diego.