Worcester, MA vs Surprise, AZ: 104 vs 126

$1,415/mo ↓ 26%

Median Rent

$1,917/mo ↑ 35%

$67,544/yr ↓ 28%

Median Income

$93,371/yr ↑ 38%

$339,500 ↓ 14%

Home Value

$396,000 ↑ 17%

$1,521/mo ↓ 4%

Owner Costs

$1,587/mo ↑ 4%

205,501

Population

149,519

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Worcester, MA and Surprise, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 104 and 126 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $502/month cheaper in Worcester, saving renters about $6,024/year.

Median household income is $25,827/year higher in Surprise. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Worcester is $339,500 compared to $396,000 in Surprise.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Surprise slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Worcester vs Surprise — common questions

Is Worcester or Surprise cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Worcester is cheaper to live in with an index of 104 compared to 126 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Worcester and Surprise?

Median rent in Worcester is $1,415/month and in Surprise it's $1,917/month — a difference of $502/month.

Which city has higher income, Worcester or Surprise?

Median household income is $67,544 in Worcester and $93,371 in Surprise. Median household income is $25,827/year higher in Surprise.

How do taxes compare between Massachusetts and Arizona?

Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Worcester or Surprise?

It depends on your priorities. Worcester has a cost index of 104 with median rent of $1,415/mo, while Surprise has a cost index of 126 with rent of $1,917/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Worcester, MA vs Surprise, AZ (2026)

Worcester

Surprise

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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