Cost of living · Boston, MA · 2026
What salary do you need to live in Boston, MA?
What salary do you need to live in Boston, MA?
To cover the essentials living alone in Boston, MA — about $3,830 a month — you need to earn roughly $58,000 a year before tax (accounting for MA state tax). To live comfortably, with money left for savings, closer to $81,000. Rent alone is $2,900 a month.
Verified 12 August 2026
To get by $58,000 Covers rent and essentials with little spare
To be comfortable $81,000 Essentials plus room to save and enjoy the city
What it costs to live in Boston, MA
| Monthly cost | |
|---|---|
| Rent (one-bed) | $2,900 |
| Utilities | $190 |
| Transport | $90 |
| Food | $520 |
| Health | $130 |
| Total | $3,830 |
On the $58,000 "get by" salary, your take-home is about $3,824 a month — just covering the $3,830 of essentials.
Roommates change everything. Splitting rent and utilities can cut the salary you need by tens of thousands. Run your own numbers →