Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
44% cheaper
Springfield is 44% more affordable than San Francisco. A $75,000 salary in San Francisco is equivalent to $42,237 in Springfield.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: California salaries · Massachusetts salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. San Francisco has a housing index of 327 while Springfield sits at 106 (national average = 100). The median home in San Francisco costs $1,200,000 compared to $230,000 in Springfield, a difference of $970,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $3,400 in San Francisco versus $1,200 in Springfield.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: San Francisco scores 112 while Springfield scores 104.
Healthcare costs in San Francisco (113) are lower than Springfield (114).
Median household income in San Francisco is $119,136 compared to $41,612 in Springfield. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Springfield.
Amazon affiliate links