Lawrence, MA vs New Bedford, MA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. New Bedford is 24.7% cheaper than Lawrence. With a cost index of 95 vs 118, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from New Bedford to Lawrence should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Lawrence is $1,569/month compared to $1,085/month in New Bedford — a 45% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: New Bedford is more affordable at $324,400 median vs $393,500.

Median household income in Lawrence is $57,903 compared to $56,025 in New Bedford (+3.4%). Lawrence does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Lawrence spend roughly 32.5% of their income on rent, more than the 23.2% in New Bedford. The New Bedford ratio exceeds the commonly recommended 30% threshold, which can put pressure on household budgets.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (50.1°F vs 50.4°F). New Bedford receives more rainfall at 45.9" per year compared to 40.9" in Lawrence.