Cost of Living in Dukes County, Massachusetts
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Dukes County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Dukes County ranks #488 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 16%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Dukes County, Massachusetts
Martha's Vineyard premium costs less to justify
Despite the nation's highest median home values at $1.1 million, Dukes County renters spend just 16.1% of their income on housing—better than the national average. This is possible because median household income ($102,348) is among the country's highest, allowing residents to absorb premium coastal costs more easily.
Most expensive homes, smartest affordability ratio
Dukes County boasts the lowest rent-to-income ratio in Massachusetts (16.1%), despite having the state's highest median home values at $1.1 million and median rents of $1,371. This paradox reflects Dukes' wealthy resident base and strong household incomes of $102,348—the second-highest statewide.
Martha's Vineyard commands island premium
Dukes' median rent of $1,371 falls between nearby Barnstable ($1,596) and Hampshire ($1,332), but its home values of $1.1 million dwarf all other surveyed counties—more than double Barnstable's $575,900. Island exclusivity and limited housing supply drive Dukes' unparalleled property values.
Renters enjoy relative bargain, buyers invest heavily
Renters allocate just 16.1% of their $102,348 income to $1,371 monthly rent, an excellent ratio for a resort community. However, homeowners dedicate 27.9% to a $2,379 monthly payment for homes worth $1.1 million—the steepest ownership burden across all surveyed counties.
Island living for the exceptionally affluent
Dukes County is accessible only to households with exceptional incomes—the $1.1 million median home value means even 20% down payments exceed $220,000. If you're relocating to Martha's Vineyard, expect to be among the state's wealthiest residents; for most others, Berkshire or Bristol offer far better value.
Cost of Living Advisory: Dukes County
Affordability Verdict
Dukes County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $1,371/month — about 16.1% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Dukes County pay $1,371/month on average, compared to $2,379/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 42%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $54,840/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $101,957/year. With a median household income of $102,348, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Dukes County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Dukes County sits 16% more expensive than Bristol County ($1,181/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Dukes County
Rent Burden
16.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,388
per month
Owner Cost Burden
27.9%
of gross income
The median home in Dukes County may be a stretch
Median home value is $1,104,100. Estimated monthly cost: $8,814 vs. your max of $2,388.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
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.
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