Boston vs Pittsburgh: cost of living compared
Pittsburgh is 46% cheaper than Boston overall. State income tax tops out around 3.07% in PA vs 5% in MA.
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
Boston's overall cost of living is substantially higher than Pittsburgh's. This significant difference is largely driven by housing expenses, which are dramatically more expensive in the New England city. While other categories like transportation, food, and healthcare also contribute to Boston's higher costs, housing stands out as the biggest factor. Pittsburgh, in contrast, offers a considerably more affordable lifestyle across the board.
Housing
Housing costs present a stark contrast between the two metros. Both buying a home and renting an apartment in Boston are far more expensive than in Pittsburgh. Boston's housing market features a mix of historic row houses, multi-family dwellings, and newer developments, often at premium prices. Pittsburgh offers a more accessible housing market, with a greater prevalence of detached homes and more affordable rental options, alongside lower property tax burdens.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses vary considerably. State income taxes are notably higher in Boston's state compared to Pittsburgh's state. Transportation costs are also higher in Boston, though both cities offer public transit options. Food, healthcare, and utilities are all more expensive in Boston, making everyday spending noticeably higher. Pittsburgh provides a more budget-friendly experience for groceries, medical care, and keeping the lights on.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, a move would bring distinct lifestyle changes. Boston offers a dense, historic urban environment with a coastal climate, prone to substantial winter weather and occasional coastal storms. Its public transit system is extensive, supporting a fast-paced atmosphere. Pittsburgh, nestled among hills, experiences a four-season climate with colder winters and offers a somewhat slower pace. Its urban core is walkable, with a more car-dependent feel in surrounding areas.
Bottom line
For households considering a move, the financial impact is substantial. Relocating from Pittsburgh to Boston would necessitate a significantly larger budget, primarily due to housing, but also across nearly all other spending categories. Conversely, moving from Boston to Pittsburgh would free up considerable financial resources, allowing for greater savings or discretionary spending, while still enjoying a vibrant urban environment and a comfortable commute.
| Measure | Boston, MA | Pittsburgh, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 162 | 88 |
| Housing index | 194 | 64 |
| Transportation index | 121 | 98 |
| Food index | 115 | 95 |
| Healthcare index | 118 | 98 |
| Utilities index | 135 | 102 |
| Misc index | 122 | 88 |
| Median home price | $698,000 | $218,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $2,850/mo | $1,050/mo |
| Average commute | 32 min | 28 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Pittsburgh home with the True Cost Calculator.