Cheapest Cities to Rent in Massachusetts

Whether you’re moving here from out of state, relocating within Massachusetts, searching for affordable living options, or considering buying an investment property, you may want to know which markets offer cheaper rent. If you’re looking for the cheapest cities to rent in Massachusetts, look no further than our list!

Living in Massachusetts comes with so many benefits, from great year-round weather to beautiful places to enjoy on your time off. Healthy living is very doable, the diversity here is fantastic, the economy is strong, and the state is ranked #2 in higher education (according to US News). No wonder people love living in Massachusetts!

While Massachusetts may not have too many of the cheapest cities to rent in the U.S. it does have areas where houses rent for less compared to the rest of the state.

Massachusetts Rental Statistics

Before we dive into the cheapest cities to rent in Massachusetts, let’s look at a few general rental facts and statistics:

• The average rent in Massachusetts is $2,500 per month, compared to $1,100 nationwide
• Across the U.S., rental rates have increased by 31% in the past ten years
• Approximately 109 million Americans reside in rental housing
• The state with the highest number of rental units is California
• About 37.84% of households in Massachusetts rent their homes

What does all this mean for you? If you are a tenant looking for affordable rentals, you’ll want to know where to find cheaper rent in Massachusetts.

Cheapest Cities to Rent in Massachusetts

This list of the most affordable cities to rent in Massachusetts does not just focus on rental prices alone. We’re taking a comprehensive approach, examining various factors contributing to the overall cost of living and quality of life in each city. This includes:

• Population: The size of the city’s population can impact the availability and pricing of rental properties.
• Median Home Listing Price: This gives us a sense of the overall real estate market in the city.
• Average Number of Days on the Market: This helps us understand how quickly properties are rented or sold.
• Median Household Income: This figure offers a glimpse into the earning potential in the area.
• Average Rent Price: Most crucial to our analysis, this tells us the typical cost of renting in the city.

Whether you’re a potential renter seeking the most value for your money or an investor scouting for high-return opportunities, our analysis will provide the insights you need to explore these affordable Massachusetts rental markets.

Here are the top ten cheapest cities to rent in Massachusetts, let’s dive in!

1. Westborough

• Population: 19,037
• Median home listing price: $473,950
• Average number of days on the market: 15 days
• Typical home value: $457,164
• Median household income: $112,153
• Average rent price: $1,663

Home prices are very reasonable in Westborough compared to the rest of the state, which makes investing in rental property here a sound choice. As a result, renters can enjoy lower rates, while investors can make a solid rental income. As a result, this is what makes Westborough one of the cheapest cities to rent in Massachusetts!

2. Sunderland

• Population: 3,647
• Median home listing price: $384,115
• Average number of days on the market: 22 days
• Typical home value: $301,326
• Median household income: $55,625
• Average rent price: $1,456

Many are drawn to the region for its affordability and end up staying long-term. Because of its reasonably priced homes and wide range of rent prices, this makes it the 2nd cheapest city to rent in Massachusetts. The market moves quickly and homes tend to stay on the market for an average of just 22 days. However, affordable rent can be had here for singles, couples, and families who are drawn to the area for economic sustainability.

3. Shrewsbury

• Population: 37,416
• Median home listing price: $529,900
• Average number of days on the market: 42 days
• Typical home value: $416,194
• Median household income: $104,766
• Average rent price: $1,371

Rent is affordable here, which as a result, draws many to the area. Both the real estate and rental markets thrive in Shrewsbury. Homes in this area typically appreciate well in value. Purchasing a home here and renting it out provides a reasonably good return on investment.

4. Burlington

• Population: 27,650
• Median home listing price: $774,450
• Average number of days on the market: 29 days
• Typical home value: $533,875
• Median household income: $118,721
• Average rent price: $1,960

Rent here is affordable, and many people choose to live here instead of in nearby Boston or Manchester because of Burlington’s reasonable rent price ranges.

While Burlington might not be the cheapest city to rent in Massachusetts, houses here sell at a more reasonable pace, being on the market an average of 29 days, but the real estate market is still healthy, and good deals can be found by savvy investors.

5. Canton

• Population: 23,369
• Median home listing price: $772,400
• Average number of days on the market: 32 days
• Typical home value: $512,635
• Median household income: $105,919
• Average rent price: $1,757

While the real estate market here is hot, home prices are relatively affordable. Canton’s median household income is higher than the other cities listed above, so people have more income to spend. Rents are also higher here, on average, but the lower range of rent prices is still very affordable. Of the top 5 cheapest cities to rent in Massachusetts, Canton is the pricier choice, but certainly not the most expensive overall. Canton offers plenty to do, with a wide range of cultural and recreational offerings.

6. Bridgewater

• Population: 27,395
• Median home listing price: $647,000
• Average number of days on the market: 23 days
• Median household income: $107,757
• Average rent price: $1,864

A town steeped in history, Bridgewater is located in Plymouth County. It is home to Bridgewater State University, a vital part of its community. With a charming downtown area, Bridgewater offers a mix of local shops, restaurants, and parks, providing a small-town feel while still offering convenient amenities. The city is also known for its annual events and strong sense of community.

7. Andover

• Population: 36,500
• Median home listing price: $967,500
• Average number of days on the market: 15 days
• Median household income: $155,252
• Average rent price: $3,077

Nestored in Essex County, Andover is a picturesque town characterized by its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and excellent public schools. It boasts a vibrant downtown area filled with small businesses, restaurants, and unique shops. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the numerous parks and trails that Andover has to offer, and the town is known for its active community involvement.

8. Weymouth

• Population: 57,670
• Median home listing price: $564,000
• Average number of days on the market: 19 days
• Median household income: $91,592
• Average rent price: $2,372

Situated in Norfolk County, Weymouth is a city offering both a coastal vibe and urban convenience. It’s known for its scenic coastline and numerous parks, providing plenty of outdoor activities for residents. Weymouth also offers a variety of dining and shopping options, and its close proximity to Boston makes it a convenient location for commuters.

9. Walpole

• Population: 25,209
• Median home listing price: $696,000
• Average number of days on the market: 15 days
• Median household income: $97,344
• Average rent price: $1,300

A town in Norfolk County, Walpole is known for its balance of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. It offers a quiet, suburban lifestyle with convenient access to the greater Boston area. Walpole has an array of recreational facilities, including parks, sports fields, and a town forest, making it a great place for outdoor enthusiasts.

10. Framingham

• Population: 71,265
• Median home listing price: $664,500
• Average number of days on the market: 13 days
• Median household income: $90,638
• Average rent price: $1,687

As the hub of the MetroWest region, Framingham offers a diverse range of amenities and activities. It’s home to several corporate headquarters, shopping centers, and Framingham State University. The city’s vibrant arts scene, multicultural festivals, and the beautiful Garden in the Woods – a renowned native plant botanic garden – all contribute to Framingham’s unique character.

Final Thoughts

Which cheapest city to rent in Massachusetts is calling you? All of these cities have thriving communities, healthy real estate markets, and strong economies.

All of them attract new residents thanks to affordable rent, strong employment opportunities, good public schools, and proximity to outstanding attractions known around the world. Many of these people will be looking for communities that have affordable rent prices and a thriving economy.

Cities like Westborough, Sunderland, Shrewsbury, Burlington, and Canton provide some of the best that Massachusetts has to offer without the high price tags!

Ready to Rent in One of the Cheapest Cities in Massachusetts?

If you’d like to explore these communities further and see if investing in property in one of these cities is right for you, we invite you to reach out to FastExpert.com. As a company that connects people buying or selling a home with top real estate agents, we can match you with the perfect real estate agent who understands your motivation for investing in Massachusetts.

We make it easy for you to hire the right real estate agent, and we provide convenient options to easily compare top agents to simplify your selection. Give us a try and discover why over 400,000 happy clients choose FastExpert!