Athens, GA vs Lowell, MA: 83 vs 119

$1,162/mo ↓ 28%

Median Rent

$1,603/mo ↑ 38%

$51,655/yr ↓ 32%

Median Income

$76,205/yr ↑ 48%

$271,800 ↓ 31%

Home Value

$395,100 ↑ 45%

$1,163/mo ↓ 30%

Owner Costs

$1,672/mo ↑ 44%

126,987

Population

114,799

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Athens, GA and Lowell, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 83 and 119 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $441/month cheaper in Athens, saving renters about $5,292/year.

Median household income is $24,550/year higher in Lowell. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Athens is $271,800 compared to $395,100 in Lowell.

Georgia has a lower income tax rate, making Athens slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Athens vs Lowell — common questions

Is Athens or Lowell cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Athens is cheaper to live in with an index of 83 compared to 119 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Athens and Lowell?

Median rent in Athens is $1,162/month and in Lowell it's $1,603/month — a difference of $441/month.

Which city has higher income, Athens or Lowell?

Median household income is $51,655 in Athens and $76,205 in Lowell. Median household income is $24,550/year higher in Lowell.

How do taxes compare between Georgia and Massachusetts?

Georgia has 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.

Should I move to Athens or Lowell?

It depends on your priorities. Athens has a cost index of 83 with median rent of $1,162/mo, while Lowell has a cost index of 119 with rent of $1,603/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Athens, GA vs Lowell, MA (2026)

Athens

Lowell

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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