Is Worcester expensive to live in?

Worcester is considered moderately expensive, with a cost index of 114 compared to the US average of 100. Living here costs about 14% more than the national average. The median monthly rent is $2,150, and the median household income is $67,544.

What salary do you need to live comfortably in Worcester?

Using the standard 30% rent-to-income rule, you need at least $86,000/year to afford median rent in Worcester. The median household income is $67,544, giving a rent-to-income ratio of 38%. Financial experts recommend keeping rent below 30% of gross income.

What is the average rent in Worcester?

The median rent in Worcester is $2,150 per month. Housing costs score 134 against the national average of 100, meaning housing is 34% more expensive than the US average.

How does Worcester compare to the national average cost of living?

Worcester's overall cost index is 114 vs the national average of 100. Breaking it down: housing (134), food & groceries (112), transportation (108), utilities (105), and healthcare (117). Worcester is above average in most categories.

Is Worcester, Massachusetts a good place to live?

Worcester has a population of 207,621 and a median household income of $67,544. With a cost index of 114, it offers a higher-cost lifestyle. The rent-to-income ratio is 38%, which is above the recommended 30% threshold.

What are the cheapest cities near Worcester?

To find the most affordable cities near Worcester in Massachusetts, use the Livably city comparison tool or browse the Massachusetts state page. You can compare rent, cost index, income, and affordability side by side across all tracked cities.

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Massachusetts

Worcester

Monthly city intelligence across housing costs, tax load, and affordability signals to help you plan your next move with clearer numbers.

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Cost index: 114

Median rent: $2,150

Median income: $67,544

Cost Index

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About Worcester

Living in Worcester, Massachusetts

Worcester, Massachusetts is a growing city with a population of approximately 207,621. The overall cost of living index sits at 114, which is above the national average of 100. This means everyday expenses — housing, groceries, transportation, and healthcare — are roughly 14% more expensive compared to the typical U.S. city.

Housing is the largest cost driver in Worcester. Median rent is $2,150 per month, while the median home price is $423,326. At a median household income of $67,544, rent consumes roughly 38% of gross income, which represents a moderate housing cost burden. The housing sub-index of 134 highlights significantly elevated shelter costs.

Beyond housing, healthcare is the most elevated non-shelter expense in Worcester with a sub-index of 117, while utilities is comparatively more affordable at 105. State-level taxes also shape the true cost of living: Massachusetts applies a 5.00% income tax rate, and property tax averages 1.04% of assessed home value. The combined sales tax rate is 6.25%. Local income tax may apply in some municipalities.

Over the past twelve months, the cost of living in Worcester has remained relatively stable. Among the 4 tracked cities in Massachusetts, Worcester ranks #1 from most to least affordable. Whether you're evaluating a job offer, planning a relocation, or comparing salary purchasing power, these numbers give a grounded, data-backed view of what life in Worcester actually costs.

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