Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
9% cheaper
Burlington is 9% more affordable than Portland. A $75,000 salary in Portland is equivalent to $68,077 in Burlington.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Vermont salaries · Oregon salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Burlington has a housing index of 139 while Portland sits at 168 (national average = 100). The median home in Burlington costs $380,000 compared to $480,000 in Portland, a difference of $100,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,800 in Burlington versus $1,800 in Portland.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Burlington scores 108 while Portland scores 105.
Healthcare costs in Burlington (116) are higher than Portland (108).
Median household income in Burlington is $51,098 compared to $71,005 in Portland. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Burlington.
Amazon affiliate links