Is Boston or Honolulu more affordable?
Boston has a median rent of $1,783/month, while Honolulu is $2,100/month. Boston is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boston, MA vs Honolulu, HI
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boston and Honolulu.
4
Boston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Honolulu wins
MA
Boston
vs
HI
Honolulu
Overview
672,814
Population
347,397
$81,744✓
Median Income
-0.5%$81,376
Cost of Living
$1,783✓
Median Rent / mo
+17.8%$2,100
$610,400✓
Median Home Price
+22.9%$750,000
26%
Rent-to-Income %
31%
Taxes
5.00%✓
State Income Tax
11.00%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
4.50%
Climate & Weather
45.41°F
Avg High Temp
85°F
42.48°F
Avg Low Temp
73°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
278 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
24"
Who should choose
Boston, MA
Boston is a city in Massachusetts with a population of 672,814.
Read full Boston guide →Who should choose
Honolulu, HI
Honolulu is a city in Hawaii with a population of 347,397.
Read full Honolulu guide →Boston vs Honolulu — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boston or Honolulu?
Massachusetts has a 5.00% state income tax. Hawaii has a 11.00% state income tax. Boston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boston and Honolulu?
Honolulu gets 278 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boston: 45.41°F. Avg high in Honolulu: 85°F
Which city is better for families — Boston or Honolulu?
Boston. Honolulu. 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.