Is Boston or Sacramento more affordable?
Boston has a median rent of $1,783/month, while Sacramento is $1,650/month. Sacramento is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boston, MA vs Sacramento, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boston and Sacramento.
2
Boston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Sacramento wins
MA
Boston
vs
CA
Sacramento
Overview
672,814
Population
524,943
$81,744✓
Median Income
-25.7%$60,715
Cost of Living
$1,783
Median Rent / mo
-7.5%$1,650✓
$610,400
Median Home Price
-18.1%$500,000✓
26%
Rent-to-Income %
33%
Taxes
5.00%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.75%
Climate & Weather
45.41°F
Avg High Temp
73°F
42.48°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
269 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
18"
Who should choose
Boston, MA
Boston is a city in Massachusetts with a population of 672,814.
Read full Boston guide →Who should choose
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento is a city in California with a population of 524,943.
Read full Sacramento guide →Boston vs Sacramento — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boston or Sacramento?
Massachusetts has a 5.00% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Boston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boston and Sacramento?
Sacramento gets 269 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boston: 45.41°F. Avg high in Sacramento: 73°F
Which city is better for families — Boston or Sacramento?
Boston. Sacramento. 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.