Montgomery, AL vs Lowell, MA: 64 vs 119

$1,059/mo ↓ 34%

Median Rent

$1,603/mo ↑ 51%

$55,687/yr ↓ 27%

Median Income

$76,205/yr ↑ 37%

$148,500 ↓ 62%

Home Value

$395,100 ↑ 166%

$1,023/mo ↓ 39%

Owner Costs

$1,672/mo ↑ 63%

198,440

Population

114,799

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Montgomery, AL and Lowell, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 64 and 119 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $544/month cheaper in Montgomery, saving renters about $6,528/year.

Median household income is $20,518/year higher in Lowell. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Montgomery is $148,500 compared to $395,100 in Lowell.

Alabama has a lower income tax rate, making Montgomery slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Montgomery vs Lowell — common questions

Is Montgomery or Lowell cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Montgomery is cheaper to live in with an index of 64 compared to 119 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Montgomery and Lowell?

Median rent in Montgomery is $1,059/month and in Lowell it's $1,603/month — a difference of $544/month.

Which city has higher income, Montgomery or Lowell?

Median household income is $55,687 in Montgomery and $76,205 in Lowell. Median household income is $20,518/year higher in Lowell.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and Massachusetts?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.

Should I move to Montgomery or Lowell?

It depends on your priorities. Montgomery has a cost index of 64 with median rent of $1,059/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: Montgomery, AL vs Lowell, MA (2026)

Montgomery

Lowell

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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