Medford, MA vs Stoneham, MA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Stoneham 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 Stoneham 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 $1,878/month in Stoneham — a 32% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Stoneham is more affordable at $629,000 median vs $715,500.

Median household income in Medford is $118,089 compared to $112,635 in Stoneham (+4.8%). Medford 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 Medford spend roughly 25.2% of their income on rent, more than the 20% in Stoneham.

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