Cost Index: 162 · Very High Cost

Cost of Living in Boston

Median income in Boston is $65,000/year ($5,417/month). Here is how to budget every dollar.

Average Rent in Boston

$2,200

Studio

$2,800

1 Bedroom

$3,400

2 Bedrooms

Monthly Budget Breakdown: $5,417/month

How to allocate the median Boston income of $65,000/year after taxes.

Housing

$2,800

52%

Food & Groceries

$540

10%

Transportation

$160

3%

Utilities

$200

4%

Healthcare

$270

5%

Entertainment

$325

6%

Personal & Other

$270

5%

Savings

$852

15%

Total

$5,417

100%

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$
Needs
$2,70950%
Wants
$1,62530%
Savings
$1,08320%
NeedsWantsSavings
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Affordable Neighborhoods in Boston

1

Dorchester and Mattapan offer the most affordable rents within Boston proper

2

Somerville and Medford are popular alternatives with Red Line/Green Line access

3

Allston and Brighton near BU have student-friendly pricing

Money-Saving Tips for Boston

$

MBTA monthly LinkPass ($90) covers all subway lines and buses

$

Look for September 1 lease deals — Boston's rental market runs on academic cycles

$

Take advantage of free museum nights and the Freedom Trail for entertainment

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