Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
14% cheaper
Salt Lake City is 14% more affordable than Worcester. A $75,000 salary in Worcester is equivalent to $64,200 in Salt Lake City.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Utah salaries · Massachusetts salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Salt Lake City has a housing index of 120 while Worcester sits at 152 (national average = 100). The median home in Salt Lake City costs $440,000 compared to $340,000 in Worcester, a difference of $100,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,500 in Salt Lake City versus $1,600 in Worcester.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Salt Lake City scores 99 while Worcester scores 106.
Healthcare costs in Salt Lake City (97) are lower than Worcester (115).
Median household income in Salt Lake City is $60,590 compared to $52,228 in Worcester. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Salt Lake City.
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