Lowell, MA vs Downey, CA: 119 vs 169

$1,603/mo ↓ 15%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 18%

$76,205/yr ↓ 13%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↑ 15%

$395,100 ↓ 46%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 84%

$1,672/mo ↓ 16%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 19%

114,799

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Lowell, MA and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 119 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $289/month cheaper in Lowell, saving renters about $3,468/year.

Median household income is $11,195/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Lowell is $395,100 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Lowell vs Downey — common questions

Is Lowell or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Lowell is cheaper to live in with an index of 119 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Lowell and Downey?

Median rent in Lowell is $1,603/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $289/month.

Which city has higher income, Lowell or Downey?

Median household income is $76,205 in Lowell and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $11,195/year higher in Downey.

How do taxes compare between Massachusetts and California?

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

Should I move to Lowell or Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Lowell has a cost index of 119 with median rent of $1,603/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Lowell, MA vs Downey, CA (2026)

Lowell

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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