Buffalo, NY vs Lowell, MA: 61 vs 119

$989/mo ↓ 38%

Median Rent

$1,603/mo ↑ 62%

$48,050/yr ↓ 37%

Median Income

$76,205/yr ↑ 59%

$152,300 ↓ 61%

Home Value

$395,100 ↑ 159%

$929/mo ↓ 44%

Owner Costs

$1,672/mo ↑ 80%

276,397

Population

114,799

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Buffalo, NY and Lowell, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 61 and 119 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $614/month cheaper in Buffalo, saving renters about $7,368/year.

Median household income is $28,155/year higher in Lowell. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Buffalo is $152,300 compared to $395,100 in Lowell.

Massachusetts has a lower income tax rate, making Lowell slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Buffalo vs Lowell — common questions

Is Buffalo or Lowell cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Buffalo is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 119 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Buffalo and Lowell?

Median rent in Buffalo is $989/month and in Lowell it's $1,603/month — a difference of $614/month.

Which city has higher income, Buffalo or Lowell?

Median household income is $48,050 in Buffalo and $76,205 in Lowell. Median household income is $28,155/year higher in Lowell.

How do taxes compare between New York and Massachusetts?

New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.

Should I move to Buffalo or Lowell?

It depends on your priorities. Buffalo has a cost index of 61 with median rent of $989/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: Buffalo, NY vs Lowell, MA (2026)

Buffalo

Lowell

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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