Is Boston or Richmond more affordable?
Boston has a median rent of $1,783/month, while Richmond is $1,250/month. Richmond is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boston, MA vs Richmond, VA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boston and Richmond.
2
Boston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Richmond wins
MA
Boston
vs
VA
Richmond
Overview
672,814
Population
226,610
$81,744✓
Median Income
-36.4%$52,000
Cost of Living
$1,783
Median Rent / mo
-29.9%$1,250✓
$610,400
Median Home Price
-52.5%$290,000✓
26%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
5.00%✓
State Income Tax
5.75%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
6.00%
Climate & Weather
45.41°F
Avg High Temp
68°F
42.48°F
Avg Low Temp
47°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
205 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
44"
Who should choose
Boston, MA
Boston is a city in Massachusetts with a population of 672,814.
Read full Boston guide →Who should choose
Richmond, VA
Richmond is a city in Virginia with a population of 226,610.
Read full Richmond guide →Boston vs Richmond — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boston or Richmond?
Massachusetts has a 5.00% state income tax. Virginia has a 5.75% state income tax. Boston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boston and Richmond?
Richmond gets 205 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boston: 45.41°F. Avg high in Richmond: 68°F
Which city is better for families — Boston or Richmond?
Boston. Richmond. 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.