Quick answer
Overall prices in the Boston, MA metro were 108.3 vs 95.7 in Indianapolis, IN in 2024 (US = 100), so Boston is 13.1% more expensive than Indianapolis; housing rents differ by 67% (148.4 vs 88.9). A $75,000 income in Boston buys about what $66,292 buys in Indianapolis, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Boston | Indianapolis | Boston vs Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 108.3 | 95.7 | +13.1% |
| Goods | 99.7 | 94.3 | +5.7% |
| Housing (rents) | 148.4 | 88.9 | +66.9% |
| Utilities | 148.8 | 86.4 | +72.3% |
| Other services | 103.6 | 99.1 | +4.5% |
| All items, 2008 | 107.7 | 96.7 | +11.3% |
| $50,000 in Boston equals in Indianapolis | $44,195 | ||
| $100,000 in Boston equals in Indianapolis | $88,390 | ||
| $150,000 in Boston equals in Indianapolis | $132,585 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.