Lowell, MA vs Malden, MA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Lowell is 20.8% cheaper than Malden. With a cost index of 120 vs 151, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Lowell to Malden should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Lowell is $1,603/month compared to $2,066/month in Malden — a 22% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Lowell is more affordable at $395,100 median vs $607,500.

Median household income in Lowell is $76,205 compared to $95,298 in Malden (-20%). The higher salaries in Malden partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Lowell spend roughly 25.2% of their income on rent, less than the 26% in Malden.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (50.1°F vs 51.9°F). Malden receives more rainfall at 43.6" per year compared to 40.9" in Lowell.