Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
21% cheaper
Charleston is 21% more affordable than Springfield. A $75,000 salary in Springfield is equivalent to $59,579 in Charleston.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: West Virginia salaries · Massachusetts salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Charleston has a housing index of 62 while Springfield sits at 106 (national average = 100). The median home in Charleston costs $135,000 compared to $230,000 in Springfield, a difference of $95,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $850 in Charleston versus $1,200 in Springfield.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Charleston scores 97 while Springfield scores 104. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Charleston (91) are lower than Springfield (114).
Median household income in Charleston is $42,034 compared to $41,612 in Springfield. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Charleston.
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