Ipswich, MA vs Orleans, MA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Orleans is 16.9% cheaper than Ipswich. With a cost index of 111 vs 130, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Orleans to Ipswich should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Ipswich is $1,456/month compared to $960/month in Orleans — a 52% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Orleans is more affordable at $542,500 median vs $570,500.

Median household income in Ipswich is $92,969 compared to $76,768 in Orleans (+21.1%). 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, more than the 15% in Orleans.

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