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Moving from Boston, MA to Tampa, FL

Thinking about moving from Boston, MA to Tampa, FL? Overall prices are 7% lower in Tampa, FL than in Boston, MA, making Tampa, FL the more affordable of the two. This guide breaks down housing, income, taxes, and climate using the latest US government data so you can plan your relocation budget with realistic numbers rather than guesswork.

Salary calculator

How much would you need to earn in Tampa, FL to maintain your standard of living from Boston, MA?

$

Equivalent salary in Tampa, FL

$69,619

You could earn $5,381 less (7% lower) and break even.

Based on BEA Regional Price Parity (cost index) for each metro area. This estimates overall purchasing power; it does not account for taxes or take-home pay differences.

Housing

Median rent is 21% lower in Tampa ($1,701) than in Boston ($2,147). The typical home value is 43% lower in Tampa ($420,400) than in Boston ($731,700). Factor in moving costs, deposits, and the gap between advertised and median rents when you set a housing budget.

Income & jobs

Median household income is 22% lower in Tampa ($75,475) than in Boston ($97,344). After adjusting pay for local prices, a typical paycheck goes further in Boston, MA.

Taxes

State tax figures for this route are still being compiled.

Climate & air quality

Average air quality index is 52% higher in Tampa (64.0) than in Boston (31.0). Lower AQI means cleaner air on a typical day, though seasonal wildfire smoke and pollen can shift this.

Quick numbers

Metric

Boston

MA

Tampa

FL

Median rent

$2,147
$1,701

Median home value

$731,700
$420,400

Median income

$97,344
$75,475

Cost index

110.4
102.5

Sources: US Census ACS · BEA Regional Price Parities

Frequently asked questions

Is Tampa, FL cheaper than Boston, MA?

Yes. Tampa, FL has an overall cost index of 102.5 versus 110.4 in Boston, MA — about 7% cheaper overall.

How much is rent in Tampa, FL?

The median gross rent in Tampa is $1,701 per month (US Census ACS).

What salary do you need in Tampa, FL?

Median household income in Tampa is $75,475. Use the salary calculator on this page to convert your current Boston pay into the equivalent you'd need in Tampa.

Full Boston vs Tampa comparison →Tampa, FL cost of living →