Pittsfield, MA vs Swampscott, MA

The cost of living difference between Pittsfield, MA and Swampscott, MA is dramatic. Pittsfield is 47.7% cheaper than Swampscott, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Pittsfield has a cost index of 85 while Swampscott sits at 163, 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 Pittsfield is $1,094/month compared to $2,223/month in Swampscott — a 51% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Pittsfield is more affordable at $233,700 median vs $690,800.

Median household income in Pittsfield is $68,386 compared to $128,964 in Swampscott (-47%). The higher salaries in Swampscott partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Pittsfield spend roughly 19.2% of their income on rent, less than the 20.7% in Swampscott.

Climate-wise, Swampscott is notably warmer with an average of 49.9°F compared to 46.1°F in Pittsfield. Swampscott receives more rainfall at 44.9" per year compared to 44.2" in Pittsfield.