Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
20% cheaper
St. Paul is 20% more affordable than Worcester. A $75,000 salary in Worcester is equivalent to $60,000 in St. Paul.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Minnesota salaries · Massachusetts salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. St. Paul has a housing index of 98 while Worcester sits at 152 (national average = 100). The median home in St. Paul costs $260,000 compared to $340,000 in Worcester, a difference of $80,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,300 in St. Paul versus $1,600 in Worcester.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: St. Paul scores 103 while Worcester scores 106.
Healthcare costs in St. Paul (105) are lower than Worcester (115).
Median household income in St. Paul is $57,718 compared to $52,228 in Worcester. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in St. Paul.
Amazon affiliate links