Cambridge, MA vs Pittsfield, MA

The cost of living difference between Cambridge, MA and Pittsfield, MA is dramatic. Pittsfield is 143.5% cheaper than Cambridge, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Cambridge has a cost index of 207 while Pittsfield sits at 85, 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 Cambridge is $2,742/month compared to $1,094/month in Pittsfield — a 151% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Pittsfield is more affordable at $233,700 median vs $1,040,500.

Median household income in Cambridge is $126,469 compared to $68,386 in Pittsfield (+84.9%). The higher salaries in Cambridge partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Cambridge spend roughly 26% of their income on rent, more than the 19.2% in Pittsfield.

Climate-wise, Cambridge is notably warmer with an average of 51.9°F compared to 46.1°F in Pittsfield. Pittsfield receives more rainfall at 44.2" per year compared to 43.6" in Cambridge.