Buying a Home in Massachusetts in 2026
Massachusetts remains one of the most popular states for home buyers in 2026. With an average home price of $590,000 and a median household income of $96,505, the state offers a higher cost of living than the national average, though many areas remain accessible.
Property Taxes in Massachusetts
Massachusetts homeowners pay an average property tax rate of 1.12%. On a $590,000 home, that translates to approximately $6,608 per year or $551 per month. This is near the national average of 1.1%.
Cost of Living
With a cost of living index of 135 (where 100 is the national average), Massachusetts is more expensive than the national average. This index factors in housing, transportation, groceries, utilities, and healthcare costs.
Best Cities for Home Buyers
Among Massachusetts's top cities, Springfield offers the most affordable entry point at $240,000, while Cambridge is the highest-priced major market in our current dataset at $880,000. Each city offers unique advantages depending on your priorities—whether that is job opportunities, school districts, or outdoor recreation.
How to Afford a Home in Massachusetts
To comfortably afford the average Massachusetts home at $590,000, you would need a household income of approximately $147,500 per year (assuming a 4x income-to-price ratio). Use our calculator above to see your personalized budget based on your exact financial situation, including your income, existing debts, down payment savings, and current interest rates.
Market Outlook 2026
Experts predict moderate price growth in Massachusetts as inventory slowly increases. Remote work trends continue to influence migration patterns, with many buyers looking for value in more affordable areas within Massachusetts.