Cost of Living: Cambridge, MA vs Boston, MA
Analyzing index metrics between Cambridge and Boston relative to the US average baseline (100). Cambridge is estimated to be 5% more expensive overall than Boston. Rental housing in Boston runs about 5% lower than in Cambridge.
Side-by-Side Index Breakdown
| Index Category | Cambridge, MA | Boston, MA | Difference for Boston |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Cost of Living | 160 | 155 | -3% |
| Rent Index | 185 | 175 | -5% |
| Home Price Index | 195 | 185 | -5% |
| Utilities | 120 | 118 | -2% |
| Groceries | 138 | 135 | -2% |
| Transportation | 135 | 132 | -2% |
| Healthcare | 128 | 125 | -2% |
Cambridge, MA
Read a complete breakdown of rent distributions, home pricing indexes, utility rates, and local services in Cambridge.
Boston, MA
Read a complete breakdown of rent distributions, home pricing indexes, utility rates, and local services in Boston.
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: Cambridge, MA vs Boston, MA
This side-by-side cost-of-living comparison analyzes the financial differences between Cambridge, MA (overall index 160) and Boston, MA (overall index 155). 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.