Rockport, MA vs Shelburne Falls, MA

The cost of living difference between Rockport, MA and Shelburne Falls, MA is dramatic. Shelburne Falls is 61.5% cheaper than Rockport, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Rockport has a cost index of 152 while Shelburne Falls sits at 94, 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 Rockport is $1,848/month compared to $1,069/month in Shelburne Falls — a 73% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Shelburne Falls is more affordable at $296,000 median vs $694,300.

Median household income in Rockport is $86,250 compared to $52,604 in Shelburne Falls (+64%). While Rockport is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Rockport spend roughly 25.7% of their income on rent, more than the 24.4% in Shelburne Falls.

Climate-wise, Rockport is notably warmer with an average of 49.9°F compared to 46.9°F in Shelburne Falls. Rockport receives more rainfall at 44.9" per year compared to 42.3" in Shelburne Falls.