Ipswich, MA vs North Adams, MA

The cost of living difference between Ipswich, MA and North Adams, MA is dramatic. North Adams is 81.2% cheaper than Ipswich, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Ipswich has a cost index of 130 while North Adams sits at 71, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Ipswich is $1,456/month compared to $777/month in North Adams — a 87% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: North Adams is more affordable at $185,300 median vs $570,500.

Median household income in Ipswich is $92,969 compared to $48,521 in North Adams (+91.6%). 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 Ipswich spend roughly 18.8% of their income on rent, less than the 19.2% in North Adams.

Climate-wise, Ipswich is notably warmer with an average of 49.9°F compared to 46.9°F in North Adams. Ipswich receives more rainfall at 44.9" per year compared to 42.3" in North Adams.