Springfield, MA vs Worcester, MA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Springfield is 19.1% cheaper than Worcester. With a cost index of 86 vs 107, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Springfield to Worcester should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Springfield is $1,114/month compared to $1,415/month in Worcester — a 21% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Springfield is more affordable at $222,700 median vs $339,500.

Median household income in Springfield is $51,339 compared to $67,544 in Worcester (-24%). While Worcester is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Springfield spend roughly 26% of their income on rent, more than the 25.1% in Worcester.