Adams, MA vs Swampscott, MA

The cost of living difference between Adams, MA and Swampscott, MA is dramatic. Adams is 53.4% cheaper than Swampscott, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Adams has a cost index of 76 while Swampscott sits at 163, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Adams is $909/month compared to $2,223/month in Swampscott — a 59% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Adams is more affordable at $189,100 median vs $690,800.

Median household income in Adams is $48,750 compared to $128,964 in Swampscott (-62.2%). While Swampscott is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Adams spend roughly 22.4% of their income on rent, more than the 20.7% in Swampscott.

Climate-wise, Swampscott is notably warmer with an average of 49.9°F compared to 46.9°F in Adams. Swampscott receives more rainfall at 44.9" per year compared to 42.3" in Adams.