Massachusetts Cost of Living
Housing costs and affordability data for 14 counties.
Average Monthly Rent
$1,558/mo
Average Home Value
$587,193
Average Owner Cost
$2,058/mo
At a Glance
Housing Costs in Massachusetts: An Overview
The median rent in Massachusetts is $1,558 per month, which is 34% above the national median of $1,163. This places the state among the more expensive places to lease a home in the country.
Within Massachusetts, housing costs vary significantly by county. Middlesex County is the most expensive county with a median rent of $2,126 per month and a median home value of $687,200. At the other end of the spectrum, Berkshire County offers the most affordable housing, with a median rent of $1,042 per month and homes valued at a median of $283,800.
The average home value across Massachusetts counties is $587,193, 108% higher than the national median of $281,900. With a median household income of roughly $96,546, many residents find homeownership a stretch.
Before moving to Massachusetts, it is worth understanding the local housing landscape. Costs can swing dramatically between rural and urban counties, so researching the specific county you plan to live in is essential. Use the county-level data below to compare rent, home values, and affordability ratings so you can budget accurately for your relocation.
Distribution
Rent Distribution in Massachusetts
How median rents are spread across 14 counties
Top 5 Most Expensive Counties
Top 5 Most Affordable Counties
All Massachusetts Counties
| County | Median Rent | Home Value | Owner Cost | Rent/Income |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Middlesex County | Expensive$2,126/mo | $687,200 | $2,480/mo | 28.0% |
| Norfolk County | Expensive$2,072/mo | $649,400 | $2,524/mo | 30.0% |
| Nantucket County | Expensive$2,070/mo | $1,387,000 | $3,203/mo | 28.0% |
| Suffolk County | Expensive$2,069/mo | $680,700 | $2,354/mo | 30.0% |
| Essex County | Expensive$1,673/mo | $584,000 | $2,317/mo | 33.0% |
| Plymouth County | Expensive$1,655/mo | $513,000 | $2,220/mo | 32.0% |
| Barnstable County | Expensive$1,596/mo | $575,900 | $1,717/mo | 34.0% |
| Dukes County | Moderate$1,371/mo | $1,104,100 | $2,379/mo | 31.0% |
| Worcester County | Moderate$1,347/mo | $390,700 | $1,899/mo | 29.0% |
| Hampshire County | Moderate$1,332/mo | $363,400 | $1,640/mo | 31.0% |
| Bristol County | Moderate$1,181/mo | $421,800 | $1,840/mo | 30.0% |
| Franklin County | Moderate$1,169/mo | $303,400 | $1,349/mo | 33.0% |
| Hampden County | Moderate$1,105/mo | $276,300 | $1,525/mo | 31.0% |
| Berkshire County | Moderate$1,042/mo | $283,800 | $1,364/mo | 32.0% |
Compare Massachusetts to Other States
See how Massachusetts counties stack up against counties in other states. Compare rent, home values, and affordability side by side.
Start a ComparisonFrequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts Housing Costs
What is the most affordable county in Massachusetts?
What is the most expensive county to live in Massachusetts?
How does Massachusetts's cost of living compare to the national average?
What is the average home value in Massachusetts?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Massachusetts, Massachusetts? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.