Salem, MA vs Somerville, MA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Salem is 28.4% cheaper than Somerville. With a cost index of 134 vs 187, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Salem to Somerville should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Salem is $1,800/month compared to $2,468/month in Somerville — a 27% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Salem is more affordable at $497,400 median vs $899,400.

Median household income in Salem is $85,137 compared to $127,056 in Somerville (-33%). While Somerville is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Salem spend roughly 25.4% of their income on rent, more than the 23.3% in Somerville.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (49.9°F vs 51.9°F). Salem receives more rainfall at 44.9" per year compared to 43.6" in Somerville.