Cost of Living in Nantucket County, Massachusetts
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Nantucket County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Nantucket County ranks #1,007 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 32%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Nantucket County, Massachusetts
Island premium: Nantucket's housing squeeze
Nantucket residents spend 20.7% of income on rent—above both the national average of 19.3% and Massachusetts's 19.3%—despite a median household income of $119,750 that nearly doubles the national median. The island's geographic isolation and seasonal economy have created one of the country's most expensive rental markets.
Massachusetts's least affordable for ownership
Nantucket ranks as Massachusetts's most expensive county for homeownership, with a median home value of $1,387,000—more than double any other Massachusetts county and nearly two and a half times Middlesex's $687,200. Monthly owner costs of $3,203 consume the largest share of any county's income relative to affordability.
Island isolation drives prices skyward
Nantucket's $2,070 median rent mirrors nearby Middlesex and Norfolk, but its $1,387,000 median home value dwarfs all regional peers—Plymouth is $513,000, Worcester $390,700. The island's seasonal tourism economy and limited housing supply have created a bifurcated market: expensive for residents, prohibitive for newcomers.
Ownership costs nearly double rentals
Renters pay $2,070 monthly while homeowners face $3,203—a $1,133 monthly gap unprecedented among Massachusetts counties. Even with a $119,750 median income, Nantucket homeowners dedicate 32% of income to housing, the highest burden in the state.
Consider Nantucket only if you're wealthy
Nantucket works for high-earners seeking island life and don't mind the premium, but renters should know median costs are in line with Boston suburbs while homes cost triple regional averages. If you're seeking New England island living on a tighter budget, consider investigating Martha's Vineyard or coastal Connecticut alternatives.
Cost of Living Advisory: Nantucket County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Nantucket County is affordable. The median rent is $2,070/month against a median household income of $119,750, putting rent at 20.7% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $2,070/month rent versus $3,203/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $1,133/month cheaper — a 35% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $82,800/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $137,271/year. With a median household income of $119,750, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Nantucket County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Nantucket County sits 3% less expensive than Middlesex County ($2,126/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Nantucket County
Rent Burden
20.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,794
per month
Owner Cost Burden
32.1%
of gross income
The median home in Nantucket County may be a stretch
Median home value is $1,387,000. Estimated monthly cost: $11,073 vs. your max of $2,794.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Nantucket County, Massachusetts?
What is the median rent in Nantucket County?
Is Nantucket County affordable?
How does Nantucket County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Nantucket County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Nantucket County, Massachusetts? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Nantucket County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.