Newton, MA vs Waltham, MA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Waltham is 27.7% cheaper than Newton. With a cost index of 164 vs 210, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Waltham to Newton should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Newton is $2,388/month compared to $2,232/month in Waltham — a 7% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Waltham is more affordable at $705,700 median vs $1,202,500.

Median household income in Newton is $184,989 compared to $116,560 in Waltham (+58.7%). 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 23% in Waltham.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (49.7°F vs 50.5°F). Newton receives more rainfall at 53.3" per year compared to 42.6" in Waltham.