Harwich Center, MA vs Ipswich, MA

Harwich Center, MA and Ipswich, MA have a very similar cost of living, with only a 4.9% difference in their overall index. Harwich Center scores 123 while Ipswich scores 130 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Harwich Center is $1,355/month compared to $1,456/month in Ipswich — a 7% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Harwich Center is more affordable at $546,600 median vs $570,500.

Median household income in Harwich Center is $76,944 compared to $92,969 in Ipswich (-17.2%). While Ipswich is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Harwich Center spend roughly 21.1% of their income on rent, more than the 18.8% in Ipswich.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (50.9°F vs 49.9°F). Harwich Center receives more rainfall at 45.2" per year compared to 44.9" in Ipswich.