Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
41% cheaper
Jacksonville is 41% more affordable than Boston. A $75,000 salary in Boston is equivalent to $43,981 in Jacksonville.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Massachusetts salaries · Florida salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Boston has a housing index of 242 while Jacksonville sits at 89 (national average = 100). The median home in Boston costs $620,000 compared to $280,000 in Jacksonville, a difference of $340,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,800 in Boston versus $1,400 in Jacksonville.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Boston scores 108 while Jacksonville scores 101.
Healthcare costs in Boston (118) are higher than Jacksonville (95).
Median household income in Boston is $76,298 compared to $53,025 in Jacksonville. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Jacksonville.
Amazon affiliate links