Salem, MA vs Swampscott, MA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Salem is 17.6% cheaper than Swampscott. With a cost index of 134 vs 163, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Salem to Swampscott should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Salem is $1,800/month compared to $2,223/month in Swampscott — a 19% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Salem is more affordable at $497,400 median vs $690,800.

Median household income in Salem is $85,137 compared to $128,964 in Swampscott (-34%). While Swampscott 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 20.7% in Swampscott.

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