Providence, RI vs Lowell, MA: 99 vs 119

$1,333/mo ↓ 17%

Median Rent

$1,603/mo ↑ 20%

$66,772/yr ↓ 12%

Median Income

$76,205/yr ↑ 14%

$322,800 ↓ 18%

Home Value

$395,100 ↑ 22%

$1,467/mo ↓ 12%

Owner Costs

$1,672/mo ↑ 14%

190,214

Population

114,799

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Providence, RI and Lowell, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 99 and 119 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $270/month cheaper in Providence, saving renters about $3,240/year.

Median household income is $9,433/year higher in Lowell. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Providence is $322,800 compared to $395,100 in Lowell.

Rhode Island has a lower income tax rate, making Providence slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Providence vs Lowell — common questions

Is Providence or Lowell cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Providence is cheaper to live in with an index of 99 compared to 119 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Providence and Lowell?

Median rent in Providence is $1,333/month and in Lowell it's $1,603/month — a difference of $270/month.

Which city has higher income, Providence or Lowell?

Median household income is $66,772 in Providence and $76,205 in Lowell. Median household income is $9,433/year higher in Lowell.

How do taxes compare between Rhode Island and Massachusetts?

Rhode Island has 5.99% income tax, 7.0% 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 Providence or Lowell?

It depends on your priorities. Providence has a cost index of 99 with median rent of $1,333/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: Providence, RI vs Lowell, MA (2026)

Providence

Lowell

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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