Metro areas in Massachusetts: income, rent and home values
Massachusetts has 7 metropolitan areas with annual Census data, led by Boston, MA with 5.0 million residents. Household incomes are highest in Boston, MA ($118,759). Renters spend the smallest share of income in Providence, RI (29.7%) and the largest in Pittsfield, MA (35.9%). The fastest-growing metro since 2021 is Boston, MA (+2.7%).
| Metro area | Population | Median income | Median rent | Home value | Rent / income |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boston, MA | 5,034,221 | $118,759 | $2,221 | $713,900 | 31.1% |
| Providence, RI | 1,708,161 | $92,239 | $1,511 | $492,800 | 29.7% |
| Worcester, MA | 888,502 | $99,598 | $1,661 | $489,600 | 30.5% |
| Springfield, MA | 464,338 | $71,209 | $1,131 | $335,800 | 33.6% |
| Barnstable Town, MA | 233,539 | $100,561 | $1,636 | $716,200 | 33.6% |
| Amherst Town, MA | 164,065 | $96,020 | $1,580 | $453,500 | 30.8% |
| Pittsfield, MA | 128,224 | $86,084 | $1,149 | $365,300 | 35.9% |
Includes 2 metro areas that cross into neighboring states.
Massachusetts at a glance
What is the most affordable metro area in Massachusetts for renters?+
Providence, RI, where renters spend a median 29.7% of household income on rent (2025 Census data).
Which metro area in Massachusetts has the highest income?+
Boston, MA, with a median household income of $118,759 in 2025.
How many metro areas are in Massachusetts?+
7 metropolitan statistical areas in Massachusetts have annual Census estimates (population 65,000+).
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2025 1-year estimates (released September 2026), with 2024 and 2021 for trends. Figures are survey estimates with margins of error; small differences between metros may not be meaningful. Metro areas use the official Metropolitan Statistical Area boundaries. Compiled and analyzed by Metro Research. Methodology.