Is Boston or Seattle more affordable?
Boston has a median rent of $1,783/month, while Seattle is $1,801/month. Boston is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boston, MA vs Seattle, WA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boston and Seattle.
2
Boston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Seattle wins
MA
Boston
vs
WA
Seattle
Overview
672,814
Population
726,054
$81,744
Median Income
+28.9%$105,391✓
Cost of Living
$1,783✓
Median Rent / mo
+1.0%$1,801
$610,400✓
Median Home Price
+25.7%$767,500
26%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
5.00%
State Income Tax
None✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
45.41°F
Avg High Temp
49.82°F
42.48°F
Avg Low Temp
46.72°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
Seattle, WA
Seattle is a city in Washington with a population of 726,054.
Read full Seattle guide →Boston vs Seattle — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boston or Seattle?
Massachusetts has a 5.00% state income tax. Washington has no state income tax. Seattle wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boston and Seattle?
Avg high in Boston: 45.41°F. Avg high in Seattle: 49.82°F
Which city is better for families — Boston or Seattle?
Boston. Seattle. 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.