Lowell, MA vs New Bedford, MA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. New Bedford is 25.9% cheaper than Lowell. With a cost index of 95 vs 120, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from New Bedford to Lowell should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Lowell is $1,603/month compared to $1,085/month in New Bedford — a 48% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: New Bedford is more affordable at $324,400 median vs $395,100.

Median household income in Lowell is $76,205 compared to $56,025 in New Bedford (+36%). While Lowell is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Lowell spend roughly 25.2% of their income on rent, more than the 23.2% in New Bedford.

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 Lowell.