Medford, MA vs Saugus, MA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Saugus is 17.2% cheaper than Medford. With a cost index of 147 vs 172, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Saugus to Medford should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Medford is $2,477/month compared to $1,982/month in Saugus — a 25% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Saugus is more affordable at $589,500 median vs $715,500.

Median household income in Medford is $118,089 compared to $100,819 in Saugus (+17.1%). The higher salaries in Medford partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Medford spend roughly 25.2% of their income on rent, more than the 23.6% in Saugus.

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