Lowell, MA
Population 114,799 · Massachusetts
About Lowell, MA
Lowell is a major city located in Massachusetts with a population of 114,799 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $76,205 per year, which is 1% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.5 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Lowell features a median home value of $395,100, which is 61% above the national median of $244,900. This places Lowell in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,603, 38% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 44,110 total housing units, 44% are owner-occupied (18,650 units) and 56% are renter-occupied (23,733 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Lowell shows an unemployment rate of 5.4%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 16.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Lowell have an average one-way commute time of 27.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
29.9% of Lowell residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 1.0% White, 0.9% Hispanic or Latino, 9.9% Black or African American, and 8.4% Asian residents, with 29.5% of the population being foreign-born.
How Lowell Ranks in Massachusetts
Cost of Living in Lowell, MA
Compared to national averages, Lowell has a median household income of $76,205 (1% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $395,100, which is 61% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,603 is 38% above the US average of $1,163. Within Massachusetts, Lowell's income is 28% below the state average of $105,630, and home values are 30% below the state median of $561,296.
Why Live in Lowell, MA?
Lowell offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $76,205, well above the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $395,100. However, as a major city, Lowell provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Lowell has a population of 114,799 with a median age of 35.5 years. Compare Lowell with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Massachusetts.
Similar Cities Near Lowell
Cities in Massachusetts with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cambridge | 117,794 | $126,469 | $1,040,500 | Compare |
| Brockton | 105,080 | $77,089 | $405,500 | Compare |
| Quincy | 101,361 | $95,711 | $598,100 | Compare |
| Lynn | 100,905 | $74,715 | $472,600 | Compare |
| New Bedford | 100,731 | $56,025 | $324,400 | Compare |
| Fall River | 93,764 | $53,933 | $357,800 | Compare |
| Newton | 88,504 | $184,989 | $1,202,500 | Compare |
| Lawrence | 88,297 | $57,903 | $393,500 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Massachusetts
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Lowell With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Lowell
What is the population of Lowell, MA?
The population of Lowell, MA is 114,799 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in Massachusetts.
What is the median household income in Lowell?
The median household income in Lowell, MA is $76,205 per year, which is 1% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Lowell?
The median home value in Lowell, MA is $395,100, which is 61% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Lowell?
The median monthly rent in Lowell, MA is $1,603, which is 38% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Lowell?
The unemployment rate in Lowell, MA is 5.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Lowell, MA a good place to live?
Lowell offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 114,799 and a median age of 35.5, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Lowell, MA?
29.9% of residents in Lowell aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Lowell?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Lowell, MA: median home value is $395,100 (61% above national), median rent is $1,603/month, and median household income is $76,205. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.2x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Lowell?
The poverty rate in Lowell, MA is 16.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Lowell, MA?
Lowell's population is 1.0% White, 0.9% Hispanic or Latino, 9.9% Black or African American, 8.4% Asian, and 10.1% two or more races. 29.5% of residents are foreign-born.