Is Boston or Tampa more affordable?
Boston has a median rent of $1,783/month, while Tampa is $1,700/month. Tampa is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boston, MA vs Tampa, FL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boston and Tampa.
1
Boston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Tampa wins
MA
Boston
vs
FL
Tampa
Overview
672,814
Population
400,753
$81,744✓
Median Income
-30.5%$56,842
Cost of Living
$1,783
Median Rent / mo
-4.7%$1,700✓
$610,400
Median Home Price
-38.6%$375,000✓
26%
Rent-to-Income %
36%
Taxes
5.00%
State Income Tax
None✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.50%
Climate & Weather
45.41°F
Avg High Temp
81°F
42.48°F
Avg Low Temp
61°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
246 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
47"
Who should choose
Boston, MA
Boston is a city in Massachusetts with a population of 672,814.
Read full Boston guide →Who should choose
Tampa, FL
Tampa is a city in Florida with a population of 400,753.
Read full Tampa guide →Boston vs Tampa — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boston or Tampa?
Massachusetts has a 5.00% state income tax. Florida has no state income tax. Tampa wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boston and Tampa?
Tampa gets 246 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boston: 45.41°F. Avg high in Tampa: 81°F
Which city is better for families — Boston or Tampa?
Boston. Tampa. 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.