Fresno, CA vs Lowell, MA: 101 vs 119

$1,324/mo ↓ 17%

Median Rent

$1,603/mo ↑ 21%

$66,804/yr ↓ 12%

Median Income

$76,205/yr ↑ 14%

$348,500 ↓ 12%

Home Value

$395,100 ↑ 13%

$1,391/mo ↓ 17%

Owner Costs

$1,672/mo ↑ 20%

543,615

Population

114,799

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Fresno, CA and Lowell, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 101 and 119 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $279/month cheaper in Fresno, saving renters about $3,348/year.

Median household income is $9,401/year higher in Lowell. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Fresno is $348,500 compared to $395,100 in Lowell.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Fresno vs Lowell — common questions

Is Fresno or Lowell cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Fresno is cheaper to live in with an index of 101 compared to 119 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Fresno and Lowell?

Median rent in Fresno is $1,324/month and in Lowell it's $1,603/month — a difference of $279/month.

Which city has higher income, Fresno or Lowell?

Median household income is $66,804 in Fresno and $76,205 in Lowell. Median household income is $9,401/year higher in Lowell.

How do taxes compare between California and Massachusetts?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.

Should I move to Fresno or Lowell?

It depends on your priorities. Fresno has a cost index of 101 with median rent of $1,324/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: Fresno, CA vs Lowell, MA (2026)

Fresno

Lowell

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons