Melrose, MA vs South Yarmouth, MA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. South Yarmouth is 29.1% cheaper than Melrose. With a cost index of 126 vs 163, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from South Yarmouth to Melrose should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Melrose is $1,933/month compared to $1,665/month in South Yarmouth — a 16% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: South Yarmouth is more affordable at $465,100 median vs $796,100.

Median household income in Melrose is $126,854 compared to $79,638 in South Yarmouth (+59.3%). While Melrose is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Melrose spend roughly 18.3% of their income on rent, less than the 25.1% in South Yarmouth.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (51.9°F vs 51.5°F). South Yarmouth receives more rainfall at 44.7" per year compared to 43.6" in Melrose.