Marlborough, MA vs Swampscott, MA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Marlborough is 19.7% cheaper than Swampscott. With a cost index of 131 vs 163, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Marlborough to Swampscott should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Marlborough is $1,721/month compared to $2,223/month in Swampscott — a 23% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Marlborough is more affordable at $485,400 median vs $690,800.

Median household income in Marlborough is $95,047 compared to $128,964 in Swampscott (-26.3%). While Swampscott is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Marlborough spend roughly 21.7% of their income on rent, more than the 20.7% in Swampscott.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (50.5°F vs 49.9°F). Swampscott receives more rainfall at 44.9" per year compared to 42.6" in Marlborough.