Best Affordable Places to Live in Massachusetts in 2025

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    By Rebecca Lake

    (Last Updated – 02/2025)

    Massachusetts is rich in history, packed with beautiful scenery, and offers some of the best healthcare options in the nation. It’s family-friendly but attracts plenty of students and job seekers, as well as its fair share of retirees.

    It also happens to be one of the priciest states to call home, thanks to its elevated cost of living. Nationwide, only Hawaii is more expensive.

    If you’re contemplating a move to the Bay State, it helps to know which areas are more affordable. Here’s a closer look at the best places to live in Massachusetts when saving money is a priority.

    Best Places to Live in Massachusetts

    Finding the best places in Massachusetts to live requires a little research. This list gives you a head start, sharing the best affordable places to live in Massachusetts for families, young adults, young professionals, and retirees. Each city included in these rankings was evaluated based on these factors:

    •   Population

    •   Median household income

    •   Cost of living

    •   Median rent price

    •   Home price-to-income ratio

    This guide includes larger metro areas as well as smaller cities. Dive in to see which locales made the list as the best places to live in Massachusetts.

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    Best Affordable Places to Live in Massachusetts

    The five cities listed below are among the most affordable overall. These cities are budget-friendly, and each one has something unique to make it an attractive choice for relocating. If you’re looking for the best place to live based on cost and you’re planning to buy a home, you may want to research some tips to qualify for a mortgage.

    1. Leominster

    Leominster, Massachusetts

    Photo credit: iStock/DenisTangneyJr

    Leominster is a suburban community of just over 40,000 people, located approximately 90 minutes from Boston. In terms of affordability, Leominster boasts a relatively low cost of living compared to other Massachusetts cities and features a family-friendly vibe. It’s much cheaper to buy in Leominster than many other Massachusetts towns, which could be ideal for first-time homebuyers. There’s plenty of variety, including single-family homes, condos, and townhouses.

    Population: 43,627

    Median Household Income: $81,556

    Cost of Living: 114% of the U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $1,855

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 5.4

    2. Adams

    Adams, Massachusetts

    Photo credit: iStock/DenisTangneyJr

    Adams could be ideal for people who are seeking a small-town experience. In terms of its appeal beyond the low cost of living, Adams is family-friendly, with plenty of nature trails and outdoor spaces, though it also attracts its fair share of retirees.

    Population: 5,584

    Median Household Income: $48,750

    Cost of Living: 109% of the U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $1,275

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 5.0

    3. Westfield

    Westfield, Massachusetts

    Photo credit: iStock/DenisTangneyJr

    Westfield is located near the Springfield area. With a population around 40,000, it’s a bustling city. While Westfield is a bit further afield from Boston, there’s still plenty to do here for young families and the students who attend Westfield State University. The cost of living is slightly above the U.S. average but still lower than many other Massachusetts cities and towns.

    Population: 40,509

    Median Household Income: $82,847

    Cost of Living: 107% of U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $1,700

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.3

    Recommended: Mortgage Prequalification vs. Preapproval: The Differences

    Best Places to Live in Massachusetts for Families

    Raising a family can influence your decision on where to move, as you’ll need to consider things like the local school system and kid-friendly activities, as well as income opportunities and the social scene for adults. Comparing different types of mortgage loans can help you plan your budget if you’re hoping to buy a home.

    These cities are among the best places to live in Massachusetts if you’re looking for family-friendly options.

    1. Springfield

    Springfield, Massachusetts

    Photo credit: iStock/Sean Pavone

    Springfield is the largest city in the Western New England region and attracts plenty of young families, who are often drawn to its well-rated schools. Despite there being a seller’s market, housing is still highly affordable. The area’s median sale price at the end of 2024 was still less than $300,000.

    Population: 153,672

    Median Household Income: $51,339

    Cost of Living: 110% of U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $1,695

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 5.4

    2. Stoneham

    Stoneham, Massachusetts

    Photo credit: iStock/DenisTangneyJr

    Stoneham is located just a few miles north of Boston and has earned a reputation for being one of the friendliest towns in Massachusetts. Families might choose to move here for its combination of good schools and convenient access to the city.

    Population: 22,854

    Median Household Income: $112,635

    Cost of Living: 34% higher than the national average

    Average Rent Price: $3,100

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 6.7

    3. Wayland

    Wayland, Massachusetts

    Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons/
    John Phelan
    , Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported

    Families will appreciate the well-ranked schools here. This quiet bedroom community is one of the best places to live in Massachusetts for families in search of a pleasant environment in which to raise children. As a smaller town, it offers fewer amenities. However, it’s close to Boston, which is great for commuting or planning family outings on the weekend. Home prices here are on the high side, and some buyers will need to look into jumbo home loans when eyeing a pricier property.

    Population: 13,752

    Median Household Income: $221,250

    Cost of Living: 138% of U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $3,374

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 5.0

    💡 Quick Tip: A major home purchase may mean a jumbo loan, but it doesn’t have to mean a jumbo down payment. Apply for a jumbo mortgage with SoFi, and you could put as little as 10% down.

    Best Places to Live in Massachusetts for Young Adults

    Jobs and entertainment tend to be key factors for young adults looking for a place to land in Massachusetts. They may flock to the Boston area to start their careers, but the surrounding suburbs can also attract plenty of up-and-coming professionals. These cities rate as the best places to live in Massachusetts for recent college grads and working young adults.

    1. Wakefield

    Wakefield, Massachusetts

    Photo credit: iStock/WestWindGraphics

    Wakefield is a smaller suburb of Boston that’s home to a number of young professionals. The local crowd here is both highly educated and diverse. About a quarter of residents are between 20 and 39 years of age. If you are looking to purchase a home, you may want to explore first-time homebuyer programs in Massachusetts to potentially make the process easier and/or more affordable.

    Population: 27,810

    Median Household Income: $130,320

    Cost of Living: 137% of U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $2,676

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 5.9

    2. Waltham

    Waltham, Massachusetts

    Photo credit: iStock/DenisTangneyJr

    Waltham is located approximately 30 minutes from Boston and is a bustling suburban community for young professionals who want to stay close to the metro area. The population is young, with a median age of 35. There are plenty of jobs to be had with both larger and smaller companies. In addition, young professionals will find a variety of things to do after work hours and on weekends, including restaurants, clubs, and even a circus school where adventurous students can learn acrobatics. Understanding the mortgage preapproval process can help if you are preparing to start your hunt for a house.

    Population: 64,477

    Median Household Income: $116,560

    Cost of Living: 142% of U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $3,000

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 6.7

    3. Malden

    Malden, Massachusetts

    Photo credit: iStock/DenisTangneyJr

    Malden is a diverse town and can be a good place for young adults to launch their careers. Job growth is a bit slower in Malden, but the fact that it’s less than 30 minutes from Boston makes it easier for residents to cast a wide net when seeking employment. Glow-in-the-dark mini golf and a craft brewery provide local entertainment. Of the various suburbs around Boston, Malden proves to be one of the most affordable for young professionals based on rent and housing prices.

    Population: 65,133

    Median Household Income: $95,298

    Cost of Living: 139% of the U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $2,400

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 6.7

    Best Places to Live in Massachusetts for Retirees

    Massachusetts could be a great place to retire from a tax perspective. Social Security benefits are not taxed here, and income from Massachusetts state and local government retirement plans is also tax-exempt. Retirees can choose from larger urban areas, quieter suburban cities, and cozy small towns.

    1. North Adams

    North Adams, Massachusetts

    Photo credit: iStock/DenisTangneyJr

    North Adams has one of the lowest costs of living in the state, making it one of the most affordable places to live in Massachusetts for retirees who may be on a fixed income. It’s small, but not so small as to lack all of the basic amenities you’d expect in retirement, including access to health care. Almost 25% of the population is over age 65. The North Adams Council on Aging offers numerous programs and services to support older residents, including transportation services, wellness and fitness programs, and assistance with applying for public benefits.

    Population: 12,483

    Median Household Income: $48,521

    Cost of Living: 100% of U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $1,350

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.8

    2. Pittsfield

    Pittsfield, Massachusetts

    Photo credit: iStock/DenisTangneyJr

    Pittsfield is another Western Massachusetts locale that’s ideally suited to retirees who are looking for an affordable cost of living. Around 20% of residents are 65 and over, and there are a significant number of single seniors here, which could make it ideal for older people who are interested in making personal connections. In addition to outstanding health care, Pittsfield offers access to the arts, dining, and shopping. One more upside to living in Pittsfield as a retiree: The public transit system makes it easy to get around.

    Population: 43,076

    Median Household Income: $68,386

    Cost of Living: 108% of U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $1,450

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.2

    3. Framingham

    Framingham, Massachusetts

    Photo credit: iStock/DenisTangneyJr

    Framingham is a college town, but there are a sizable number of older adults and retirees who make their home here. The city is unique in that it blends some of the best elements of both urban and suburban living, with plenty of things for retirees to do along with access to excellent health care. Boston is less than a 40-minute drive, making it convenient enough for outings. Checking out a home loan help center can help you know how to navigate the buying process.

    Population: 71,875

    Median Household Income: $98,179

    Cost of Living: 131% of U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $2,403

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 6.5

    Best Places to Live in Massachusetts Near the Beach

    Here are the best places to live in Massachusetts if you’re looking for a community with beach access.

    1. New Bedford

    New Bedford, Massachusetts

    Photo credit: iStock/DenisTangneyJr

    New Bedford is located in the South Coast region, which may be perfect for homebuyers and renters who prefer to live near the water. The city has a rich history and a highly walkable downtown, with the town of Dartmouth and its zoo, wineries, and nature preserves just a 10-minute drive away. Overall, it’s a highly affordable pick for people who’d prefer to live in a larger city.

    Population: 100,695

    Median Household Income: $56,025

    Cost of Living: 116% of U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $1,800

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 7.3

    2. Yarmouth

    Yarmouth, Massachusetts

    Photo credit: iStock/Wirestock

    For those who want to be close to the water, Yarmouth deserves a look. It’s one of the oldest towns on Cape Cod and boasts a shoreline that spans Cape Cod Bay and Nantucket Sound. The area is a mix of historic sites and new developments, with the three villages of West Yarmouth, South Yarmouth, and Yarmouth Port attracting visitors. If you’re looking for things to do, there’s Whydah Pirate Museum and the Edward Gorey House, not to mention numerous nature trails.

    Population: 25,103

    Median Household Income: $81,985

    Cost of Living: 127% of U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $3,000

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 7.1

    3. Gloucester

    Gloucester, Massachusetts

    Photo credit: iStock/Jill_InspiredByDesign

    Gloucester is on Cape Ann, part of the North Shore area. Some of the best beaches in the state are located here, and vacationers frequently rub elbows with locals during the summer months. Gloucester is home to a mix of families, retirees, and young professionals who prefer the slower pace of beach living with the amenities of a larger suburban town.

    Population: 29,959

    Median Household Income: $87,898

    Cost of Living: 134% of the U.S. average

    Average Rent Price: $2,800

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 8.2


    The Takeaway

    Overall, Massachusetts can be a pricey place to live, but there are options for people of varied budgets and life stages. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or anticipate renting for the near-term, it helps to know what you can expect to pay for housing as well as other costs, such as utilities and taxes. The cities included here represent the best places to live in Massachusetts that are also budget-friendly.

    If you are planning to make a home purchase, shopping around for a mortgage is an important step to finding the right loan to suit your needs and your budget.

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    FAQ

    What is the best city to live in Massachusetts 2025?

    The best city to live in Massachusetts is subjective and can depend on what you’re looking for as a resident. Some of the most popular places to live in Massachusetts include Boston, Cambridge, Worcester, and Springfield.

    Where is the most affordable place to live in Massachusetts?

    Some of the most affordable cities in Massachusetts include Leominster, Adams, North Adams, and Westfield. When comparing costs of living in Massachusetts, it’s helpful to look at things like housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, insurance, and property taxes.

    What is the cheapest New England state to live in?

    Based on the overall cost of living, Maine and Rhode Island are the cheapest of the six states that make up the New England region. Massachusetts, on the other hand, has the highest cost of living overall.


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