Cost of Living in Norfolk County, Massachusetts
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Norfolk County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Norfolk County, Massachusetts
Norfolk: Most balanced housing affordability
Norfolk County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.7% ranks as one of Massachusetts's most balanced, nearly matching the national average of 19.3% despite a median household income of $126,497. This county consistently delivers strong wage growth relative to housing costs, making it one of the state's affordability leaders.
Second-best affordability in Massachusetts
Norfolk ranks second only to Plymouth County among Massachusetts counties for rent-to-income balance, with a 19.7% ratio slightly above the state average of 19.3%. The county's median rent of $2,072 reflects suburban proximity to Boston, yet its high median income keeps the burden reasonable.
Balanced middle ground in greater Boston
Norfolk's $2,072 median rent sits between Middlesex's $2,126 and Plymouth's $1,655, while its $649,400 median home value aligns closely with Middlesex at $687,200. Among greater Boston suburbs, Norfolk offers the sweet spot of modest pricing with robust incomes.
Renters and buyers share similar burdens
Renters pay $2,072 monthly while homeowners spend $2,524, representing 19.7% and 20.1% of the $126,497 median income respectively. Norfolk's unusual harmony—where rents and mortgages impose nearly equal proportional burdens—reflects a mature suburban market with balanced supply.
The Goldilocks county for Boston commuters
Norfolk offers affluent suburban living with the most predictable housing costs in Massachusetts—ideal if you earn $120,000+ and want Boston access without premium pricing. If you're comparing moves across Massachusetts, Norfolk delivers better affordability than Middlesex with more amenities than Plymouth.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Norfolk County
Rent Burden
19.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,952
per month
Owner Cost Burden
23.9%
of gross income
The median home in Norfolk County may be a stretch
Median home value is $649,400. Estimated monthly cost: $5,184 vs. your max of $2,952.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Norfolk County, Massachusetts?
What is the median rent in Norfolk County?
Is Norfolk County affordable?
How does Norfolk County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Norfolk County?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Norfolk County, Massachusetts? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCounties with Similar Housing Costs
Compare Mortgage Rates in Norfolk 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.