Is Boston or Austin more affordable?
Boston has a median rent of $1,783/month, while Austin is $1,415/month. Austin is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boston, MA vs Austin, TX
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boston and Austin.
1
Boston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Austin wins
MA
Boston
vs
TX
Austin
Overview
672,814
Population
944,658
$81,744✓
Median Income
-3.4%$78,965
Cost of Living
$1,783
Median Rent / mo
-20.6%$1,415✓
$610,400
Median Home Price
-37.5%$381,400✓
26%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
5.00%
State Income Tax
None✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
45.41°F
Avg High Temp
71.28°F
42.48°F
Avg Low Temp
68.16°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
N/A
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Boston, MA
Boston is a city in Massachusetts with a population of 672,814.
Read full Boston guide →Who should choose
Austin, TX
Austin is a city in Texas with a population of 944,658.
Read full Austin guide →Boston vs Austin — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boston or Austin?
Massachusetts has a 5.00% state income tax. Texas has no state income tax. Austin wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boston and Austin?
Avg high in Boston: 45.41°F. Avg high in Austin: 71.28°F
Which city is better for families — Boston or Austin?
Boston. Austin. 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.