Moving from Boston, MA to Tampa, FL
Thinking about moving from Boston, MA to Tampa, FL? Overall prices are 11% 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
$66,756
You could earn $8,244 less (11% lower) and break even.
Based on BEA Regional Price Parity (cost index) for each city's metro area. A rough estimate of overall purchasing power, not tax or take-home pay.
Housing
Median rent is 25% lower in Tampa ($1,567) than in Boston ($2,093). The typical home value is 47% lower in Tampa ($375,300) than in Boston ($710,400). 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 25% lower in Tampa ($71,302) than in Boston ($94,755). After adjusting pay for local prices, a typical paycheck goes further in Boston, MA.
Taxes
The top state income tax rate is 100% lower in Tampa (0.00%) than in Boston (9.00%). State sales tax is 4% lower in Tampa (6.00%) than in Boston (6.25%). Remember that local taxes and your specific bracket change the real picture (Tax Foundation, 2024).
Climate & air quality
Average air quality index is 29% lower in Tampa (29.0) than in Boston (41.0). Lower AQI means cleaner air on a typical day, though seasonal wildfire smoke and pollen can shift this.
Frequently asked questions
Is Tampa, FL cheaper than Boston, MA?
Yes. Tampa, FL has an overall cost index of 99.9 versus 112.2 in Boston, MA — about 11% cheaper overall.
How much is rent in Tampa, FL?
The median gross rent in Tampa is $1,567 per month (US Census ACS).
What salary do you need in Tampa, FL?
Median household income in Tampa is $71,302. Use the salary calculator on this page to convert your current Boston pay into the equivalent you'd need in Tampa.