Newton, MA vs Salem, MA

The cost of living difference between Newton, MA and Salem, MA is dramatic. Salem is 56.4% cheaper than Newton, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Newton has a cost index of 210 while Salem sits at 134, 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 Newton is $2,388/month compared to $1,800/month in Salem — a 33% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Salem is more affordable at $497,400 median vs $1,202,500.

Median household income in Newton is $184,989 compared to $85,137 in Salem (+117.3%). While Newton is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Newton spend roughly 15.5% of their income on rent, less than the 25.4% in Salem.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (49.7°F vs 49.9°F). Newton receives more rainfall at 53.3" per year compared to 44.9" in Salem.