Lowell, MA vs Pittsfield, MA

The cost of living difference between Lowell, MA and Pittsfield, MA is dramatic. Pittsfield is 40.6% cheaper than Lowell, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Lowell has a cost index of 120 while Pittsfield sits at 85, 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 Lowell is $1,603/month compared to $1,094/month in Pittsfield — a 47% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Pittsfield is more affordable at $233,700 median vs $395,100.

Median household income in Lowell is $76,205 compared to $68,386 in Pittsfield (+11.4%). Lowell 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 Lowell spend roughly 25.2% of their income on rent, more than the 19.2% in Pittsfield.

Climate-wise, Lowell is notably warmer with an average of 50.1°F compared to 46.1°F in Pittsfield. Pittsfield receives more rainfall at 44.2" per year compared to 40.9" in Lowell.