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
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Plymouth County ranks #1,725 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 45%)
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.
Cost of Living Advisory: Plymouth County
Affordability Verdict
Plymouth County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,655/month representing approximately 18.1% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 32.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,655/month rent versus $2,220/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $565/month cheaper — a 25% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $66,200/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $95,143/year. With a median household income of $109,698, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 32.0% of renter households in Plymouth County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Barnstable County where rent averages $1,596/month, Plymouth County is approximately 4% more expensive.
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
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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