Cost of Living: Boston, MA vs Cambridge, MA
Analyzing index metrics between Boston and Cambridge relative to the US average baseline (100). Cambridge is estimated to be 5% more expensive overall than Boston. Rental housing in Cambridge runs about 6% higher than in Boston.
Side-by-Side Index Breakdown
| Index Category | Boston, MA | Cambridge, MA | Difference for Cambridge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Cost of Living | 155 | 160 | +3% |
| Rent Index | 175 | 185 | +6% |
| Home Price Index | 185 | 195 | +5% |
| Utilities | 118 | 120 | +2% |
| Groceries | 135 | 138 | +2% |
| Transportation | 132 | 135 | +2% |
| Healthcare | 125 | 128 | +2% |
Boston, MA
Read a complete breakdown of rent distributions, home pricing indexes, utility rates, and local services in Boston.
Cambridge, MA
Read a complete breakdown of rent distributions, home pricing indexes, utility rates, and local services in Cambridge.
Planning a move between these cities?
Cost of living indexes provide a directional guide, but real rent rates, local tax regulations, and commute patterns fluctuate by neighborhood.
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Cost of Living Comparison: Boston, MA vs Cambridge, MA
This side-by-side cost-of-living comparison analyzes the financial differences between Boston, MA (overall index 155) and Cambridge, MA (overall index 160). Cambridge, MA is estimated to be 5% more expensive overall than Boston, MA. Use this data to plan your monthly budget and compare housing, transit, utility, and grocery expenses.