Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
41% cheaper
Springfield is 41% more affordable than San Jose. A $75,000 salary in San Jose is equivalent to $44,093 in Springfield.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: California salaries · Massachusetts salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. San Jose has a housing index of 308 while Springfield sits at 106 (national average = 100). The median home in San Jose costs $1,300,000 compared to $230,000 in Springfield, a difference of $1,070,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $3,100 in San Jose versus $1,200 in Springfield.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: San Jose scores 110 while Springfield scores 104.
Healthcare costs in San Jose (112) are lower than Springfield (114).
Median household income in San Jose is $117,324 compared to $41,612 in Springfield. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Springfield.
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