Dayton, OH vs Lowell, MA: 50 vs 119

$866/mo ↓ 46%

Median Rent

$1,603/mo ↑ 85%

$43,454/yr ↓ 43%

Median Income

$76,205/yr ↑ 75%

$93,200 ↓ 76%

Home Value

$395,100 ↑ 324%

$833/mo ↓ 50%

Owner Costs

$1,672/mo ↑ 101%

136,741

Population

114,799

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Dayton, OH and Lowell, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 50 and 119 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $737/month cheaper in Dayton, saving renters about $8,844/year.

Median household income is $32,751/year higher in Lowell. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Dayton is $93,200 compared to $395,100 in Lowell.

Ohio has a lower income tax rate, making Dayton slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dayton vs Lowell — common questions

Is Dayton or Lowell cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Dayton is cheaper to live in with an index of 50 compared to 119 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Dayton and Lowell?

Median rent in Dayton is $866/month and in Lowell it's $1,603/month — a difference of $737/month.

Which city has higher income, Dayton or Lowell?

Median household income is $43,454 in Dayton and $76,205 in Lowell. Median household income is $32,751/year higher in Lowell.

How do taxes compare between Ohio and Massachusetts?

Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.

Should I move to Dayton or Lowell?

It depends on your priorities. Dayton has a cost index of 50 with median rent of $866/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: Dayton, OH vs Lowell, MA (2026)

Dayton

Lowell

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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