Lawrence, MA vs Waltham, MA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Lawrence is 27.8% cheaper than Waltham. With a cost index of 118 vs 164, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Lawrence to Waltham should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Lawrence is $1,569/month compared to $2,232/month in Waltham — a 30% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Lawrence is more affordable at $393,500 median vs $705,700.

Median household income in Lawrence is $57,903 compared to $116,560 in Waltham (-50.3%). While Waltham is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Lawrence spend roughly 32.5% of their income on rent, more than the 23% in Waltham. The Waltham 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 50.5°F). Waltham receives more rainfall at 42.6" per year compared to 40.9" in Lawrence.