Essex, MA vs Marshfield, MA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Marshfield is 15.8% cheaper than Essex. With a cost index of 134 vs 155, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Marshfield 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 $1,398/month in Marshfield — a 25% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Marshfield is more affordable at $646,400 median vs $774,400.

Median household income in Essex is $156,094 compared to $99,537 in Marshfield (+56.8%). 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 16.9% in Marshfield.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (49.9°F vs 50°F). Marshfield receives more rainfall at 48" per year compared to 44.9" in Essex.