Lowell, MA vs Sugar Land, TX: 119 vs 135

$1,603/mo ↓ 17%

Median Rent

$1,939/mo ↑ 21%

$76,205/yr ↓ 45%

Median Income

$137,511/yr ↑ 80%

$395,100 ↓ 3%

Home Value

$406,600 ↑ 3%

$1,672/mo ↓ 15%

Owner Costs

$1,969/mo ↑ 18%

114,799

Population

109,735

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Lowell, MA and Sugar Land, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 119 and 135 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $336/month cheaper in Lowell, saving renters about $4,032/year.

Median household income is $61,306/year higher in Sugar Land. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Lowell is $395,100 compared to $406,600 in Sugar Land.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Sugar Land residents a significant tax advantage over Massachusetts's 9.0% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lowell vs Sugar Land — common questions

Is Lowell or Sugar Land cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Lowell is cheaper to live in with an index of 119 compared to 135 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Lowell and Sugar Land?

Median rent in Lowell is $1,603/month and in Sugar Land it's $1,939/month — a difference of $336/month.

Which city has higher income, Lowell or Sugar Land?

Median household income is $76,205 in Lowell and $137,511 in Sugar Land. Median household income is $61,306/year higher in Sugar Land.

How do taxes compare between Massachusetts and Texas?

Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.

Should I move to Lowell or Sugar Land?

It depends on your priorities. Lowell has a cost index of 119 with median rent of $1,603/mo, while Sugar Land has a cost index of 135 with rent of $1,939/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Lowell, MA vs Sugar Land, TX (2026)

Lowell

Sugar Land

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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