Holbrook, MA vs Melrose, MA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Holbrook is 25.8% cheaper than Melrose. With a cost index of 121 vs 163, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Holbrook to Melrose should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Holbrook is $1,522/month compared to $1,933/month in Melrose — a 21% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Holbrook is more affordable at $436,500 median vs $796,100.

Median household income in Holbrook is $107,768 compared to $126,854 in Melrose (-15%). The higher salaries in Melrose partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Holbrook spend roughly 16.9% of their income on rent, less than the 18.3% in Melrose.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (49.7°F vs 51.9°F). Holbrook receives more rainfall at 53.3" per year compared to 43.6" in Melrose.