Gardner, MA vs Mansfield Center, MA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Gardner is 24.9% cheaper than Mansfield Center. With a cost index of 91 vs 121, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Gardner to Mansfield Center should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Gardner is $1,071/month compared to $1,601/month in Mansfield Center — a 33% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Gardner is more affordable at $271,300 median vs $449,200.

Median household income in Gardner is $62,948 compared to $101,546 in Mansfield Center (-38%). While Mansfield Center is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Gardner spend roughly 20.4% of their income on rent, more than the 18.9% in Mansfield Center.

Climate-wise, Mansfield Center is notably warmer with an average of 52°F compared to 48.9°F in Gardner. Mansfield Center receives more rainfall at 43.9" per year compared to 43.4" in Gardner.