There’s certainly a lot to love about Massachusetts — the charm of its coastal towns, the great seafood, the infectious energy in Boston, and the unbeatable fall foliage are just a few of the draws. But however much you enjoy the Bay state, living in Massachusetts is very different from just visiting, and there are a few key things to know before making the move.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the reality of moving to Massachusetts, from the cost of living to the weather. We’ll also cover some of the best places to live and best things to do in Massachusetts to help you figure out whether it’s the right fit for you.
8 Things To Know About Living in Massachusetts Before Moving to Massachusetts
Quaint colonial streets, world-class chowder, sprawling coastline … and a price tag to match. We’re unpacking the highs and lows of living in Massachusetts, starting with what it really costs to live there.
1. The cost of living in Massachusetts is much higher than the national average
Let’s get the bad news out of the way first: Massachusetts is one of the most expensive states in the U.S.
The cost of living in Massachusetts is 44 percent higher than the national average — mostly due to high housing costs around central hubs like Boston and Cambridge — but utility bills, groceries, and relatively high taxes all play a part too. Unless you’re moving to Massachusetts from Hawaii, New York, or California, you can probably count on your monthly expenses going up.
Look at it this way: If you’re moving to Boston from, say, Manchester, New Hampshire, and you made $80,000 before, you would need to make $103,588 (29% more) in Boston to maintain the same standard of living. The good news? The major cost disparity is mostly due to housing prices, and there are plenty of cities in Massachusetts with more affordable home options.
Most Expensive Places to Live in Massachusetts
- Nantucket, MA: 45% higher than the state average
- Cambridge, MA: 39% higher than the state average
- Boston, MA: 37% higher than the state average
- Salem, MA: 3% higher than the state average
Most Affordable Places to Live in Massachusetts
- North Adams, MA: 22% lower than the state average
- Pittsfield, MA: 17% lower than the state average
- Worcester, MA: 15% lower than the state average
- Springfield, MA: 14% lower than the state average
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Massachusetts? The salary you need to live comfortably in Massachusetts will vary widely depending on what city you choose to settle down in and whether or not you have a family to support. Technically, the living wage in Massachusetts for a single adult is $28.88/hour (about $60,000/year). But let’s take into account the 50/30/20 budget rule: 50% of your salary goes toward standard needs, 30% to entertainment spending, and 20% into savings. Based on that framework, you would need to make $124,966 to live comfortably in a place like Boston, according to a recent 2024 study. Per that same study, if you’re married with two kids, you and your partner would need to make $319,738 to maintain the same standard of living. |
2. The Massachusetts housing market is notoriously expensive
Unsurprisingly, the Massachusetts housing market is intense. First of all, the average home value in the state is $658,406, which is much higher than the national average of $368,581. Home prices in Massachusetts are also up 1.7% from last year, and the market does feel a bit inflated — due in part to a hot job market and a housing shortage.
So, if you’re planning on moving out of state and buying a home in Massachusetts, expect a competitive market (at least in the more populous and coastal cities). But if you can afford a home in this climate, the silver lining is that your home’s value could continue to go up in the next few years.
3. The rental market in Massachusetts follows housing market trends
Opting to rent instead? The rental market in Massachusetts mirrors the competitive housing scene. But while the average Massachusetts rent sits high at about $2,559/month for a one-bedroom apartment and $2,967/month for a two-bed, there are plenty of more affordable options across the state.
In big metros like Boston and Cambridge, plan to pay a premium (about $3,810/month and $3,792/month, respectively). In Downtown Worcester, though, average rent is much more affordable at $2,056/month, and the average apartment in Springfield is only $1,495/month.
4. You’ll find tons of opportunities in the job market in Massachusetts
While the cost of living is high, the job market is strong, which can help offset some of the sticker shock when moving to Massachusetts. In fact, Mass. has the fourth-highest median household income in the country ($86,725).
If local employment opportunities matter to you, then you’re in luck — Massachusetts delivers with thousands of open roles across tech, healthcare, finance, and education. Plus, Massachusetts residents generally earn more than peers in other states, largely due to the state's knowledge-based economy and access to world-class universities (like Harvard) and hospitals (like Mass General).
Planning on moving to Massachusetts? Check out our ultimate moving checklist to help you with the move! |
5. The climate is beautiful (as long as you like four seasons)
If you enjoy variety and all four seasons, Massachusetts weather might just be your thing. You definitely get all four seasons here.
Spring is short-lived but stunning — particularly in April when the pansies and tulips bloom — and summers are warm and humid, usually hanging out in the 70s and 80s.
Autumn is when Massachusetts really shines, with stunning fall foliage and that crisp, cozy air that, paired with all the colonial architecture, makes you feel like you’re living in a storybook. As for winter? It is admittedly cold, snowy, and long — but if you're into skiing or just enjoying the magic of a snowy morning, you’ll be in your element.
6. Crime rates in Massachusetts are trending downward
Massachusetts is a pretty safe place to live. The state has a relatively low crime rate compared to many other U.S. states, and crime rates have recently dropped 6.5% — from 3,532.6 incidents per 100,000 people in 2023 to 3,301.9 incidents in 2024.
Bear in mind, though, that higher crime clusters in certain areas around the state, which you’ll want to be aware of when deciding where to move. As with any city, it’s a good idea to research neighborhood-specific crime data before choosing where to commit to living.
3 cities with the highest crime rates in Massachusetts
3 of the safest cities in Massachusetts
7. Massachusetts has no shortage of charming cities
Of course, deciding on the best places to live in Massachusetts will depend on your individual job, budget, and lifestyle preferences — but these cities are, at minimum, a great place to start your search.
Clinton, MA: Safest City in Massachusetts
Clinton is a small Massachusetts town with a population of 15,430 and a crime rate 97% below the national average, marking it as the safest town in the state. While it’s small, this town is known to have a great community feel with a walkable downtown and a number of beloved cafes and restaurants (check out the Melody Maker for great bagels, coffee, and local music).
Lexington, MA: Best Massachusetts City for Families
Like Clinton, Lexington is one of the safest cities in Massachusetts, with a crime rate 86% below the national average. Beyond its glowing safety rating, Lexington is also conveniently close to Boston (just a 25-minute drive), boasts excellent schools (Lexington High is ranked number three in the state), and offers stunning architecture, lovely nature spaces, and plenty of shopping and dining to keep you busy. It’s a no-brainer for families who can afford it.
Cambridge, MA: Best Massachusetts City for Young Adults
According to Forbes, Cambridge is the leading city for young professionals to live in, not just in Massachusetts but in America. Cambridge, a college town at heart, offers an urban feel with great bars, restaurants, and public parks — all major draws for most young adults. While Cambridge isn’t cheap, it’s home to Harvard University and surrounded by other tech hubs — i.e., great job opportunities — which can help neutralize the cost.
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8. Massachusetts is packed with fun things to see, taste, and do
Massachusetts is full of cool places to explore, tasty food to try, and fun things to do — no matter the time of year.
Hike Mount Greylock, the highest point in Massachusetts.
See world-renowned exhibitions at the Clark Art Institute in the Berkshires.
In the summer, whale watch with the family off Cape Cod.
Take advantage of the spectacular seafood (Neptune Oyster in Boston and Warren Tavern in Charlestown are two fan favorites).
Plan a surf and beach weekend in Nantucket.
Catch a Red Sox game at Fenway Park in Boston.
Venture to Salem in October for the largest Halloween celebration in the world.
Have a drink at the Sam Adams Tap Room in Boston (and go on a brewery tour while you’re at it).
Take the kids skiing at Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort.
Pros and Cons of Living in Massachusetts
The takeaway? Here are the pros and cons of living in Massachusetts:
Pros of Living in Massachusetts
The job market is strong.
Spring, summer, and autumn are beautiful.
Crime rates are going down.
There are myriad beautiful towns and cities to choose from to settle down in.
From nature to sports to food, you’ll always find something to see or do.
Cons of Living in Massachusetts
The cost of living—including the house and rental markets—is high.
The winters can be tough.
Is Massachusetts a good place to live in? Massachusetts can be a wonderful place to live, but it won’t be the right fit for everyone. There are plenty of compelling reasons to move to Massachusetts, but ultimately, you’ll need to assess the pros (job opportunities, charming cities, lots to do) and cons (long winters, high cost of living) to decide if living in Massachusetts is the right thing for you. |
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Make the Move to Massachusetts
If the quintessential New England experience sounds appealing — and long winters and pricey rent don’t scare you off — Massachusetts could be exactly where you belong.
When you’re ready to take the leap, let Colonial Van Lines help take care of your move. With over 50 years of experience in long-distance relocation, our team of highly trained movers has the expertise required to ensure your belongings arrive safely at your new home in Massachusetts. Get a free moving quote.