Is Boston or Portland more affordable?
Boston has a median rent of $1,783/month, while Portland is $1,406/month. Portland is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boston, MA vs Portland, OR
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boston and Portland.
2
Boston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Portland wins
MA
Boston
vs
OR
Portland
Overview
672,814
Population
647,176
$81,744✓
Median Income
-4.0%$78,476
Cost of Living
$1,783
Median Rent / mo
-21.1%$1,406✓
$610,400
Median Home Price
-24.2%$462,800✓
26%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
5.00%✓
State Income Tax
9.90%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
45.41°F
Avg High Temp
50.49°F
42.48°F
Avg Low Temp
46.76°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
Portland, OR
Portland is a city in Oregon with a population of 647,176.
Read full Portland guide →Boston vs Portland — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boston or Portland?
Massachusetts has a 5.00% state income tax. Oregon has a 9.90% state income tax. Boston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boston and Portland?
Avg high in Boston: 45.41°F. Avg high in Portland: 50.49°F
Which city is better for families — Boston or Portland?
Boston. Portland. 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.