Is Boston or Los Angeles more affordable?
Boston has a median rent of $1,783/month, while Los Angeles is $1,852/month. Boston is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boston, MA vs Los Angeles, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boston and Los Angeles.
4
Boston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Los Angeles wins
MA
Boston
vs
CA
Los Angeles
Overview
672,814
Population
3,898,747
$81,744✓
Median Income
-15.4%$69,144
Cost of Living
$1,783✓
Median Rent / mo
+3.9%$1,852
$610,400✓
Median Home Price
+22.9%$750,000
26%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
5.00%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
9.50%
Climate & Weather
45.41°F
Avg High Temp
75°F
42.48°F
Avg Low Temp
58°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
284 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
15"
Who should choose
Boston, MA
Boston is a city in Massachusetts with a population of 672,814.
Read full Boston guide →Who should choose
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles is a city in California with a population of 3,898,747.
Read full Los Angeles guide →Boston vs Los Angeles — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boston or Los Angeles?
Massachusetts has a 5.00% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Boston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boston and Los Angeles?
Los Angeles gets 284 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boston: 45.41°F. Avg high in Los Angeles: 75°F
Which city is better for families — Boston or Los Angeles?
Boston. Los Angeles. 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.