Cost of Living in Plymouth County, Massachusetts
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Plymouth County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Plymouth County, Massachusetts
Plymouth: Massachusetts's most affordable county
Plymouth County achieves a rent-to-income ratio of just 18.1%—below both the national average of 19.3% and Massachusetts's 19.3%—while maintaining a respectable median household income of $109,698. This southern suburban county offers the rare combination of low housing costs and solid earning potential.
Best rent-to-income ratio in Massachusetts
Plymouth ranks as Massachusetts's most affordable county by rent-to-income ratio at 18.1%, beating the state average by 1.2 percentage points. The county's median rent of $1,655 is substantially below the state average of $1,558—making it the only Massachusetts county with below-average rents and above-average incomes.
Half the price of northern suburbs
Plymouth's $1,655 median rent runs nearly $400 less than Middlesex ($2,126) and Norfolk ($2,072), while its $513,000 median home value is $174,000 cheaper than Norfolk's $649,400. Among greater Boston counties, Plymouth remains the value leader without sacrificing income levels.
Housing takes smallest income share
Plymouth renters spend $1,655 monthly—just 18.1% of the $109,698 median income—while homeowners pay $2,220 or 24.3%, the most favorable burden ratio in Massachusetts. This county's balanced market means both renters and buyers experience manageable housing costs.
Best value in the Boston metro area
Plymouth is ideal for middle-income earners ($100,000–$120,000) seeking southern suburban living with genuine affordability and Boston commute access. If you're relocating to Massachusetts and concerned about housing costs, Plymouth delivers better value than any comparable county while maintaining strong local incomes.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Plymouth County
Rent Burden
18.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,560
per month
Owner Cost Burden
24.3%
of gross income
The median home in Plymouth County may be a stretch
Median home value is $513,000. Estimated monthly cost: $4,095 vs. your max of $2,560.
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.