Essex, MA vs Ipswich, MA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Ipswich is 19.8% cheaper than Essex. With a cost index of 130 vs 155, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Ipswich to Essex should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Essex is $1,750/month compared to $1,456/month in Ipswich — a 20% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Ipswich is more affordable at $570,500 median vs $774,400.

Median household income in Essex is $156,094 compared to $92,969 in Ipswich (+67.9%). While Essex is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Essex spend roughly 13.5% of their income on rent, less than the 18.8% in Ipswich.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (49.9°F vs 49.9°F). Ipswich receives more rainfall at 44.9" per year compared to 44.9" in Essex.