Baltimore, MD vs Lowell, MA: 84 vs 119

$1,290/mo ↓ 20%

Median Rent

$1,603/mo ↑ 24%

$59,623/yr ↓ 22%

Median Income

$76,205/yr ↑ 28%

$219,300 ↓ 44%

Home Value

$395,100 ↑ 80%

$1,333/mo ↓ 20%

Owner Costs

$1,672/mo ↑ 25%

577,193

Population

114,799

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Lowell, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 119 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $313/month cheaper in Baltimore, saving renters about $3,756/year.

Median household income is $16,582/year higher in Lowell. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $395,100 in Lowell.

Maryland has a lower income tax rate, making Baltimore slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Lowell — common questions

Is Baltimore or Lowell cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 119 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Lowell?

Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Lowell it's $1,603/month — a difference of $313/month.

Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Lowell?

Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $76,205 in Lowell. Median household income is $16,582/year higher in Lowell.

How do taxes compare between Maryland and Massachusetts?

Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.

Should I move to Baltimore or Lowell?

It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/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: Baltimore, MD vs Lowell, MA (2026)

Baltimore

Lowell

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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