Needham, MA vs Webster, MA

The cost of living difference between Needham, MA and Webster, MA is dramatic. Webster is 117.3% cheaper than Needham, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Needham has a cost index of 206 while Webster sits at 95, 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 Needham is $2,412/month compared to $1,112/month in Webster — a 117% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Webster is more affordable at $303,900 median vs $1,146,000.

Median household income in Needham is $212,241 compared to $60,384 in Webster (+251.5%). While Needham is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Needham spend roughly 13.6% of their income on rent, less than the 22.1% in Webster.

Climate-wise, Needham is notably warmer with an average of 52°F compared to 48.1°F in Webster. Webster receives more rainfall at 48.3" per year compared to 43.9" in Needham.