Cambridge, MA vs Medford, MA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Medford is 20.1% cheaper than Cambridge. With a cost index of 172 vs 207, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Medford to Cambridge should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Cambridge is $2,742/month compared to $2,477/month in Medford — a 11% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Medford is more affordable at $715,500 median vs $1,040,500.

Median household income in Cambridge is $126,469 compared to $118,089 in Medford (+7.1%). Cambridge does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Cambridge spend roughly 26% of their income on rent, more than the 25.2% in Medford.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (51.9°F vs 51.9°F). Medford receives more rainfall at 43.6" per year compared to 43.6" in Cambridge.