How expensive is everyday life in Brookline compared to Boston?

Brookline’s cost of living is generally higher than the national average and a bit above Boston’s overall index because it is an affluent suburb with high property values. Expect grocery prices to be roughly 5‑10 % higher than the Boston average, and utilities such as electricity and gas to be comparable to the city’s rates. Massachusetts has a state income tax that applies to all residents, and Brookline adds a modest local property tax on top of the state levy. To get a precise picture, use cost‑of‑living calculators that let you input your current expenses and compare them to Brookline, and review the city’s budget documents for the latest tax rates.