Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
18% cheaper
Worcester is 18% more affordable than Washington. A $75,000 salary in Washington is equivalent to $61,678 in Worcester.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: District of Columbia salaries · Massachusetts salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Washington has a housing index of 226 while Worcester sits at 152 (national average = 100). The median home in Washington costs $580,000 compared to $340,000 in Worcester, a difference of $240,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,300 in Washington versus $1,600 in Worcester.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Washington scores 108 while Worcester scores 106.
Healthcare costs in Washington (105) are lower than Worcester (115).
Median household income in Washington is $90,842 compared to $52,228 in Worcester. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Worcester.
Amazon affiliate links