Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
20% cheaper
New Haven is 20% more affordable than Boulder. A $75,000 salary in Boulder is equivalent to $59,797 in New Haven.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Colorado salaries · Connecticut salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Boulder has a housing index of 230 while New Haven sits at 137 (national average = 100). The median home in Boulder costs $750,000 compared to $250,000 in New Haven, a difference of $500,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,300 in Boulder versus $1,400 in New Haven.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Boulder scores 107 while New Haven scores 106.
Healthcare costs in Boulder (104) are lower than New Haven (114).
Median household income in Boulder is $73,123 compared to $42,158 in New Haven. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in New Haven.
Amazon affiliate links