Lowell, MA vs Worcester, MA: Cost of Living Comparison
Worcester has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Lowell | Worcester | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 108 | 98 | Worcester |
| Housing | 113 ($1,122) | 98 ($991) | Worcester |
| Transportation | 104 ($3.50) | 106 ($3.50) | Lowell |
| Food & groceries | 102 ($418) | 90 ($369) | Worcester |
| Utilities | 107 ($203) | 99 ($176) | Worcester |
| Healthcare | 107 ($147) | 99 ($127) | Worcester |
| Median annual wage | 131 ($63,590) | 131 ($63,590) | Tie |
Index 100 = US national average. Lower = cheaper. For wage, higher = better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lowell, MA or Worcester, MA cheaper to live in?
Worcester, MA is cheaper overall by about 10 index points (Lowell, MA: 108, Worcester, MA: 98; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Lowell, MA vs Worcester, MA?
A single adult needs roughly $37,800/year in Lowell, MA and $34,300/year in Worcester, MA to cover basic living costs.