Ipswich, MA vs Shelburne Falls, MA

The cost of living difference between Ipswich, MA and Shelburne Falls, MA is dramatic. Shelburne Falls is 38% cheaper than Ipswich, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Ipswich has a cost index of 130 while Shelburne Falls sits at 94, 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 $1,069/month in Shelburne Falls — a 36% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Shelburne Falls is more affordable at $296,000 median vs $570,500.

Median household income in Ipswich is $92,969 compared to $52,604 in Shelburne Falls (+76.7%). 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 24.4% in Shelburne Falls.

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