Cost of Living in Barnstable County, Massachusetts
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Barnstable County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Barnstable County, Massachusetts
Barnstable's rent burden tops national average
Renters in Barnstable County spend 20.3% of their income on housing, outpacing the national average of roughly 18%. This means a typical household earning $94,452 annually dedicates over $1,596 monthly to rent—a meaningful premium compared to most American counties.
Less affordable than Massachusetts neighbors
Barnstable ranks among the least affordable counties in Massachusetts, with a rent-to-income ratio of 20.3% versus the state average of 19.3%. Its median rent of $1,596 exceeds the state median by just $38, but higher housing costs relative to local income make affordability tighter here.
Cape Cod premium over nearby counties
Barnstable's median rent of $1,596 significantly outpaces nearby Bristol County ($1,181) and Hampshire County ($1,332), reflecting Cape Cod's seasonal tourism and beach proximity. However, home values in Barnstable ($575,900) remain well below those in neighboring Essex County ($584,000).
Ownership costs climb faster than rent
Renters here pay $1,596 monthly (20.3% of income), while homeowners shoulder $1,717 (21.8% of income) for a median home valued at $575,900. Housing—whether renting or buying—claims over one-fifth of typical household budgets in Barnstable.
Trading Cape Cod for value elsewhere
If you're considering relocating, Berkshire or Hampden counties offer substantially lower housing costs while maintaining healthy median incomes. Barnstable's premium reflects lifestyle and location—weigh whether Cape Cod's appeal justifies paying significantly more for housing than similar Massachusetts communities.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Barnstable County
Rent Burden
20.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,204
per month
Owner Cost Burden
21.8%
of gross income
The median home in Barnstable County may be a stretch
Median home value is $575,900. Estimated monthly cost: $4,598 vs. your max of $2,204.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.