Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
9% cheaper
Springfield is 9% more affordable than Burlington. A $75,000 salary in Burlington is equivalent to $68,008 in Springfield.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Vermont salaries · Massachusetts salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Burlington has a housing index of 139 while Springfield sits at 106 (national average = 100). The median home in Burlington costs $380,000 compared to $230,000 in Springfield, a difference of $150,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,800 in Burlington versus $1,200 in Springfield.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Burlington scores 108 while Springfield scores 104.
Healthcare costs in Burlington (116) are higher than Springfield (114).
Median household income in Burlington is $51,098 compared to $41,612 in Springfield. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Springfield.
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