on $100k a year, leaving Washington
changea dispatch from
boulder
CO
40.01°N
105.27°W
Boulder is the Flatirons rising right behind town, the Pearl Street Mall pedestrian shopping, and a population that runs more, climbs more, and bikes more than basically any other American city. CU keeps it young, the foothills keep it active, and the food scene leans organic-virtuous. The access to the Rockies is unmatched and the sunshine is relentless, and locals invest in the city like it's a lifestyle, not just an address.
the verdict
lighter monthly cost than Washington
Boulder gives you room Washington doesn't. Same gross salary, lower monthly cost of living.
a quick ledger.
$2,216/mo
6% cheaper than Washington(vs $2,352/mo)
4.4%
$342/mo less in state tax than Washington
vs 8.5% in Washington
$5,751/mo
$478 more than Washington
gross of federal tax. a comparison, not a paycheck.
$783k
25% more expensive than Washington
vs $626k in Washington
327k
vs 6.3M in Washington
field notes, weather & such.
178
pleasant days a year, in boulder.
Washington keeps to 177 pleasant days a year. Winter shows up, though: 42 days below 20° vs Washington's 11.
Noticeably quieter than Washington. About 96% fewer events on a typical month.
79/100
9% lower than Washington
vs 87/100 in Washington
Closest outdoor draw: Rocky Mountain National Park, 23.2 mi.
84/100
14% lower than Washington
vs 98/100 in Washington
169
6% more than Washington
vs 160 nonstops in Washington
same energy as boulder, different zip code:
