Salem, OR vs Lowell, MA: 105 vs 119

$1,323/mo ↓ 17%

Median Rent

$1,603/mo ↑ 21%

$71,900/yr ↓ 6%

Median Income

$76,205/yr ↑ 6%

$382,400 ↓ 3%

Home Value

$395,100 ↑ 3%

$1,440/mo ↓ 14%

Owner Costs

$1,672/mo ↑ 16%

176,666

Population

114,799

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Salem, OR and Lowell, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 105 and 119 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $280/month cheaper in Salem, saving renters about $3,360/year.

Median household income is $4,305/year higher in Lowell. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Salem is $382,400 compared to $395,100 in Lowell.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Salem vs Lowell — common questions

Is Salem or Lowell cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Salem is cheaper to live in with an index of 105 compared to 119 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Salem and Lowell?

Median rent in Salem is $1,323/month and in Lowell it's $1,603/month — a difference of $280/month.

Which city has higher income, Salem or Lowell?

Median household income is $71,900 in Salem and $76,205 in Lowell. Median household income is $4,305/year higher in Lowell.

How do taxes compare between Oregon and Massachusetts?

Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.

Should I move to Salem or Lowell?

It depends on your priorities. Salem has a cost index of 105 with median rent of $1,323/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: Salem, OR vs Lowell, MA (2026)

Salem

Lowell

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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