Cost of Living in Essex County, Massachusetts
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Essex County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Essex County, Massachusetts
Essex County stretches budgets tighter than most
Essex County renters spend 20.2% of their income on housing, exceeding the national average and topping even Massachusetts' state median of 19.3%. With a median household income of $99,431 and rent at $1,673 monthly, Essex residents dedicate more to housing than nearly all comparable American counties.
Among Massachusetts' least affordable counties
Essex County ranks among the least affordable in Massachusetts with a rent-to-income ratio of 20.2%, nearly matching Barnstable's 20.3% burden. Its median rent of $1,673 is the highest among all eight surveyed counties, driven by proximity to Boston and coastal North Shore demand.
Boston-area premium outpaces inland rivals
Essex's rent of $1,673 significantly exceeds nearby inland counties like Hampshire ($1,332) and Franklin ($1,169), reflecting Boston's suburban housing crunch. Home values ($584,000) approach Barnstable's, but Essex rents climb higher—a sign of sustained demand from commuters to metro Boston.
Both renters and buyers face steep costs
Renters allocate 20.2% of income to $1,673 monthly rent, while homeowners dedicate 27.9% to a $2,317 monthly payment on homes worth $584,000. Essex imposes the state's second-highest housing burden overall, squeezing household budgets regardless of tenure.
North Shore convenience comes at a premium price
Moving to Essex County means paying substantially more for housing than western Massachusetts alternatives—rent here is 50% higher than Berkshire's. If commuting to Boston is essential, Essex delivers access; if flexibility exists, Bristol, Hampshire, or Berkshire counties offer comparable quality of life at significantly lower cost.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Essex County
Rent Burden
20.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,320
per month
Owner Cost Burden
28.0%
of gross income
The median home in Essex County may be a stretch
Median home value is $584,000. Estimated monthly cost: $4,662 vs. your max of $2,320.
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.