Is Austin or Boston more affordable?
Austin has a median rent of $1,415/month, while Boston is $1,783/month. Austin is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Austin, TX vs Boston, MA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Austin and Boston.
3
Austin wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Boston wins
TX
Austin
vs
MA
Boston
Overview
944,658
Population
672,814
$78,965
Median Income
+3.5%$81,744✓
Cost of Living
$1,415✓
Median Rent / mo
+26.0%$1,783
$381,400✓
Median Home Price
+60.0%$610,400
22%
Rent-to-Income %
26%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
5.00%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
71.28°F
Avg High Temp
45.41°F
68.16°F
Avg Low Temp
42.48°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
N/A
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Austin, TX
Austin is a city in Texas with a population of 944,658.
Read full Austin guide →Who should choose
Boston, MA
Boston is a city in Massachusetts with a population of 672,814.
Read full Boston guide →Austin vs Boston — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Austin or Boston?
Texas has no state income tax. Massachusetts has a 5.00% state income tax. Austin wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Austin and Boston?
Avg high in Austin: 71.28°F. Avg high in Boston: 45.41°F
Which city is better for families — Austin or Boston?
Austin. Boston. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.