Boston, Massachusetts vs. San Rafael, California

Cost of Living Comparison

The cost of living in San Rafael, California is 41.7% more expensive than Boston, Massachusetts.

You would need a salary of $276,356 in San Rafael, California to maintain the standard of living you have in Boston, Massachusetts.
Comparison highlights
• Overall, San Rafael, California is more expensive than Boston, Massachusetts
• Median Home Cost is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference.
Median Home Cost
84% more expensive in San Rafael
than in Boston, Massachusetts
Boston, MA vs. San Rafael, CA
Compared to Boston, San Rafael is:
  Homeowner
      No Child Care, Taxes not Considered
  41.7% higher
      Child Care, Taxes not Considered
      Child Care, Taxes Considered
      No Child Care, Taxes Considered
  Renter
      No Child Care, Taxes not Considered
      Child Care, Taxes not Considered
      Child Care, Taxes Considered
      No Child Care, Taxes Considered
  Food
  1.9% higher
  Housing (Homeowner)
  73.0% higher
  Housing (Rent)
  Median Home Cost
  Utilities
  16.7% lower
  Commute
  9.9% lower
  Health
  22.7% higher
  Taxes
  Childcare
  Personal
  2.7% lower