Is Boston or Salt Lake City more affordable?
Boston has a median rent of $1,783/month, while Salt Lake City is $1,450/month. Salt Lake City is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boston, MA vs Salt Lake City, UT
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boston and Salt Lake City.
1
Boston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Salt Lake City wins
MA
Boston
vs
UT
Salt Lake City
Overview
672,814
Population
199,723
$81,744✓
Median Income
-29.0%$58,000
Cost of Living
$1,783
Median Rent / mo
-18.7%$1,450✓
$610,400
Median Home Price
-21.4%$480,000✓
26%
Rent-to-Income %
30%
Taxes
5.00%
State Income Tax
4.65%✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
45.41°F
Avg High Temp
65°F
42.48°F
Avg Low Temp
41°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
222 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
17"
Who should choose
Boston, MA
Boston is a city in Massachusetts with a population of 672,814.
Read full Boston guide →Who should choose
Salt Lake City, UT
Salt Lake City is a city in Utah with a population of 199,723.
Read full Salt Lake City guide →Boston vs Salt Lake City — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boston or Salt Lake City?
Massachusetts has a 5.00% state income tax. Utah has a 4.65% state income tax. Salt Lake City wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boston and Salt Lake City?
Salt Lake City gets 222 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boston: 45.41°F. Avg high in Salt Lake City: 65°F
Which city is better for families — Boston or Salt Lake City?
Boston. Salt Lake City. 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.