Boston vs Orlando: cost of living compared
Orlando is 35% cheaper than Boston overall. Orlando (FL) has no state income tax; MA tops out around 5%.
Indexes use a US average of 100: below 100 is cheaper than the national average. Housing and transportation are derived from median home prices, rents and commute times; figures come from BLS, Census ACS, Numbeo and the MIT Living Wage Calculator.
The big picture
Moving from Boston to Orlando presents a substantial shift in overall cost of living, with Orlando being noticeably more affordable across the board. The primary driver of this significant difference is housing, which stands out as dramatically more expensive in Boston. Beyond housing, nearly all other spending categories also contribute to Boston's higher cost, though the gaps are not as wide as for shelter. This makes Orlando an attractive option for those seeking to reduce their monthly expenses considerably.
Housing
Housing costs, both for purchasing and renting, are considerably higher in Boston compared to Orlando. Boston's median home prices are significantly greater, and typical rental rates for a one-bedroom unit also show a substantial difference. While Florida has no state income tax, homeowners in Orlando should factor in potentially higher homeowners insurance premiums, the possibility of flood insurance, and common HOA or CDD fees. Property taxes in Florida also reset to market value upon sale, which can impact new owners' budgets.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses in Orlando are generally more budget-friendly than in Boston. Florida's absence of a state income tax provides an immediate financial advantage. Beyond that, transportation, groceries, and healthcare costs are all lower in Orlando. Utilities are roughly similar, though slightly higher in Boston. This means that routine spending on essentials, from fueling a vehicle to buying groceries and managing health needs, will typically require less of your income in Orlando.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, a move involves significant lifestyle changes. Boston experiences distinct four seasons, while Orlando offers a warm, humid climate year-round, known for its sunshine and frequent summer thunderstorms. Getting around Boston often involves navigating denser urban areas and public transit, whereas Orlando's transportation is typically more car-dependent. Orlando's pace is generally more relaxed, but residents must be prepared for hurricane season during the summer and fall months.
Bottom line
For households considering a move between these two metros, the financial implications are clear: Orlando offers a much more affordable cost of living. The most dramatic savings will likely be found in housing, whether buying or renting. While other expenses like groceries and transportation also contribute to the savings, it's important to budget for potentially higher insurance costs and community fees in Florida. Overall, a move to Orlando can free up a substantial portion of a household's budget.
| Measure | Boston, MA | Orlando, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 162 | 105 |
| Housing index | 194 | 104 |
| Transportation index | 121 | 104 |
| Food index | 115 | 98 |
| Healthcare index | 118 | 98 |
| Utilities index | 135 | 108 |
| Misc index | 122 | 92 |
| Median home price | $698,000 | $358,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $2,850/mo | $1,650/mo |
| Average commute | 32 min | 29 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Orlando home with the True Cost Calculator.