What Is the Average Cost of Living in Massachusetts?

The cost of living in Massachusetts generally exceeds the national average. This article examines average costs across several categories, including housing, transportation, food, healthcare, and utilities, to provide a clearer picture of financial expectations for residents and those considering relocation.

Housing

Housing is a major expense in Massachusetts, with costs varying by location and dwelling type. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment statewide is approximately $2,560 per month, and a two-bedroom unit averages around $2,965 monthly.

Median home prices reflect the higher cost of real estate. The median sale price for a single-family home in Massachusetts was $615,000 in 2024. Condominiums are generally less expensive, with a median sale price of $535,000 for 2024.

Regional differences impact housing costs. The Greater Boston area has higher prices compared to Western Massachusetts. Average rents in Boston for a one-bedroom apartment can be around $3,521, and a two-bedroom around $4,455. Median home prices in Greater Boston can exceed $750,000, with communities like Cambridge, Brookline, and Somerville exceeding $1.3 million. In Western Massachusetts, cities like Springfield have average rents for a one-bedroom around $1,255, and the average home sale price can be around $300,000.

Transportation

Transportation expenses in Massachusetts cover public transit and private vehicle costs. Public transportation through the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) in eastern Massachusetts has various fare structures. A standard monthly pass for unlimited subway and bus travel costs $90.00. Individual subway fares are $2.40 per ride, while bus fares are $1.70 per ride.

Car owners face recurring costs. The average annual car insurance premium in Massachusetts is approximately $1,607. Fuel costs contribute to transportation budgets, with average gasoline prices mirroring national trends, typically $3.50 to $4.00 per gallon. Vehicle registration fees are $60 for a two-year period.

Parking costs are an additional expense, especially in urban centers like Boston. Monthly parking garage fees in downtown areas can range from $200 to over $400. Meter or garage use for shorter durations also adds to costs.

Food and Groceries

Food and grocery expenses reflect Massachusetts’ higher cost of living. Individuals spend $400 to $500 per month on groceries. A family of two adults might spend $700 to $900.

Staple prices reflect these trends. A gallon of milk typically costs $3.50 to $4.50, a loaf of bread $3.00 to $5.00, and a dozen eggs $3.00 to $4.50.

Dining out adds to food costs. A casual meal for one person at an inexpensive restaurant is typically $20 to $25. A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant can average $70 to $100.

Healthcare

Healthcare expenses in Massachusetts include health insurance premiums and out-of-pocket costs. The average monthly health insurance premium for an individual is $500 to $700. For a family, the average monthly premium can range from $1,200 to $1,800.

Out-of-pocket expenses are also a consideration. Common costs include co-payments for doctor visits, typically $20 to $50 for primary care and $30 to $75 for a specialist. Deductibles, the amount paid before insurance coverage begins, can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.

Prescription medication costs add to healthcare costs. Co-pays for generic prescriptions might be $10 to $20, while brand-name drugs could incur co-pays of $40 to $70 or more.

Utilities and Miscellaneous Expenses

Utilities are a monthly expense for Massachusetts residents. The average monthly electricity bill ranges from $100 to $180, influenced by usage and seasonal demands. Heating costs, often driven by natural gas or oil, vary seasonally; average monthly gas bills can be $80 to $150, spiking in colder months.

Water and sewer services generally incur a combined monthly cost of $50 to $80. Internet service averages $60 to $90 monthly for standard broadband speeds.

Miscellaneous expenses also contribute to the cost of living. A typical cell phone plan costs $40 to $70 per month per line. Personal care items might average $50 to $100 monthly. Clothing expenses might average $50 to $150 per month. Entertainment and leisure activities could add $150 to $300 or more monthly.