Cost of Living in Hampshire County, Massachusetts
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Hampshire County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Hampshire County ranks #1,661 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 47%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Hampshire County, Massachusetts
Hampshire achieves strong affordability with solid income
Hampshire County renters spend 18.5% of their income on housing, outperforming both the national average and Massachusetts' state median of 19.3%. With a median household income of $86,391 and rent at $1,332 monthly, Hampshire balances good earnings with reasonable housing costs.
Hampshire ranks among state's best values
Hampshire County boasts an 18.5% rent-to-income ratio, besting Massachusetts' state average of 19.3% and ranking among the most affordable counties statewide. Its $1,332 median rent sits well below the state median, offering solid value for western Massachusetts.
Northampton area pricing amid strong college presence
Hampshire's $1,332 rent falls between Franklin ($1,169) and Barnstable ($1,596), reflecting the Northampton area's college-driven housing market and cultural amenities. Home values ($363,400) exceed Berkshire and Hampden but remain well below coastal counties, maintaining reasonable ownership barriers.
Renters enjoy better deals than homebuyers
Renters allocate 18.5% of their $86,391 income to $1,332 monthly rent, while homeowners dedicate 22.7% to a $1,640 monthly payment on homes worth $363,400. Hampshire offers especially attractive rental affordability compared to its ownership costs.
College town vitality with moderate housing costs
Hampshire County combines the cultural richness of Five College communities with affordability better than most Massachusetts options. If you're relocating and want intellectual stimulation alongside reasonable housing economics, Hampshire's 18.5% rent burden and $363,400 home values beat coastal counties decisively.
Cost of Living Advisory: Hampshire County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Hampshire County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,332/month in gross rent, with 31.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Hampshire County pay $1,332/month on average, compared to $1,640/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 19%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $53,280/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $70,286/year. With a median household income of $86,391, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Hampshire County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Bristol County where rent averages $1,181/month, Hampshire County is approximately 13% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Hampshire County
Rent Burden
18.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,016
per month
Owner Cost Burden
22.8%
of gross income
The median home in Hampshire County may be a stretch
Median home value is $363,400. Estimated monthly cost: $2,901 vs. your max of $2,016.
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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