Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
10% cheaper
Arlington is 10% more affordable than Springfield. A $75,000 salary in Springfield is equivalent to $67,290 in Arlington.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Texas salaries · Massachusetts salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Arlington has a housing index of 86 while Springfield sits at 106 (national average = 100). The median home in Arlington costs $260,000 compared to $230,000 in Springfield, a difference of $30,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,300 in Arlington versus $1,200 in Springfield.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Arlington scores 96 while Springfield scores 104. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Arlington (100) are lower than Springfield (114).
Median household income in Arlington is $60,138 compared to $41,612 in Springfield. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Arlington.
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