Athol, MA vs Orange, MA

Athol, MA and Orange, MA have a very similar cost of living, with only a 0.5% difference in their overall index. Athol scores 86 while Orange scores 85 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Athol is $1,018/month compared to $991/month in Orange — a 3% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Orange is more affordable at $217,200 median vs $227,000.

Median household income in Athol is $61,742 compared to $53,014 in Orange (+16.5%). While Athol is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Athol spend roughly 19.8% of their income on rent, less than the 22.4% in Orange.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (48.3°F vs 48.3°F). Orange receives more rainfall at 42.2" per year compared to 42.2" in Athol.