Thinking about living in Massachusetts? As one of the most expensive states in the U.S., finding affordable housing in the Bay State can be tricky—until you look outside the Boston metro! Whether you’re already a Massachusetts resident or moving to the Old Colony State, check out these eight most affordable places to live in Massachusetts!
Adams
- Population: 5,412
- Home Price: $148,200 median purchase price; $628 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 42% of Massachusetts cities
- Unemployment Rate: 5.5%
Tucked away in the state’s northwest corner, the Town of Adams is one of the most affordable places in Massachusetts to call home! Part of the greater City of Pittsfield metro, residents living in Adams will find plenty to do within the town and the surrounding areas. Great for nature lovers, Adams in Berkshire County has endless outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, swimming, and more. Plus, art museums, farm-to-table dining, and hospitality jobs await in neighboring North Adams. And you won’t want to pass up visiting Arrowhead, the home of Herman Melville, where the American author wrote Moby Dick! If you’re looking for breathtaking views of Mount Greylock with some of the most affordable real estate in the Bay State, Adams is the place to be!
Things to Do in Adams
Explore more than 50 miles of trails by foot or mountain bike, go kayaking, or take a spin on a snowmobile at Savoy Mountain State Forest. Known for having the highest point in the Bay State, marvel at the jaw-dropping views when hiking, visit the Veterans War Memorial Tower, or enjoy a scenic drive at Mount Greylock State Reservation. See the works of esteemed and emerging artists, attend an outdoor concert, or stop in for a hands-on art class at the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA). Learn about the Quaker life, step inside Daniel Anthony’s store, or look at the portraits of those associated with the suffrage movement in The Portrait Gallery exhibit while visiting The Susan B. Anthony Birthplace Museum. Order classic Chinese dishes like Egg Drop Soup, Pepper Steak, or Shrimp Chow Mein when dining at Chee’s Chinese Cuisine. For lunch favorites, enjoy subs like the Steak & Cheese or Spicy Italian, or try the Grilled Chicken Salad at Angelina’s Subs. Try specialty pizzas like Primavera or Stacey’s Special, or make your own calzone at Adams Pizza House. During summer, pick between soft-serve ice cream flavors like Pina Colada or Pistachio Nut and hard ice cream flavors like Cookies ‘N Cream at The Rainbow Shack.
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Chicopee
- Population: 56,100
- Home Price: $173,800 median purchase price; $845 median rent price
- Crime Rate: Safer than 10% of Massachusetts cities
- Unemployment Rate: 5.3%
Nestled along the Connecticut River, Chicopee is a great Massachusetts city to reside in—whether you’re a young professional looking for a place to raise a family or a retiree seeking peace and relaxation. Despite being the second largest city in Western Massachusetts, Chicopee offers affordable housing and rental prices compared to other major cities. Residents can stay busy with plenty of things to do in Chicopee and access to many restaurants and shops in Chicopee Center. Have a job in Springfield? No problem! Chicopee is only a short drive away via I-391.
Things to Do in Chicopee
Learn about the Polish culture in Massachusetts, see a reproduction of a traditional Polish Country Cottage, admire folk costumes, and more at the Polish Center of Discovery and Learning. Head out on a family bike ride, go swimming in the pond, and end your day with a picnic at Chicopee Memorial State Park. Watch the kiddos run through the Spray Park and play a game of basketball at Sarah Jane Sherman Park. Attend Pajama Storytime with the kids, check out the latest book, or join a book club at the Chicopee Public Library. Try authentic Mexican dishes like Huevos Rancheros, Tradicional Quesadilla, and Arroz Con Pollo at Frontera Grill. Expand your tastebuds with German favorites like Zigeuner Schnitzel, Pfalzer Bratwurst, and Schnitzelwich at Munich Haus German Restaurant. Or catch up with friends over a plate of Buffalo Tots, Sweet Thai Chili Wings, or Giant Nachos at Rumbleseat Bar and Grille.
Easthampton
- Population: 16,042
- Home Price: $242,200 median purchase price; $909 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 40% of Massachusetts cities
- Unemployment Rate: 5.0%
Located in the southeastern part of Pioneer Valley, Easthampton is a great place to live in Massachusetts, thanks to the affordable cost of living. Perfect for families, this Hampshire County city is full of renovated ranches and Craftsman-style homes with large yards. Parents can send their kids to Easthampton schools like Mountain View School, Hilltown Cooperative Charter Public School, and Easthampton High School—they won’t have far to go for good education! Hampshire County is also home to the Five College Consortium in Western Massachusetts, so college students will appreciate being close to the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst College, Hampshire College, Smith College, and Mount Holyoke College.
Things to Do in Easthampton
Visit Mount Tom State Reservation for birdwatching, cross-country skiing, and great views of Pioneer Valley. Enjoy looking at different wildlife while walking the trails at the Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary. Play a game of doubles on the tennis court, go fishing at Nashawannuck Pond, or go swimming at the outdoor pool at Nonotuck Park. Just a ten minute drive outside the neighborhood, explore a variety of outdoor gardens or the Lyman Conservatory at The Botanic Gardens of Smith College. Order Shrimp Curry, Tandoori Chicken, or Lamb Vindaloo at Glory of India. Stop by on Food Truck Friday to try local eats in the beer garden, sip on a craft beer, and listen to live music at Abandoned Building Brewery. Dive into traditional Italian entrees like Spaghetti Carbonara, Cheese Ravioli, or Chicken Picatta at Nini’s Ristorante. Or treat yourself to penny candy, homemade ice cream cakes, and over 50 flavors of ice cream, vegan gelato, or sorbet at Mt. Tom’s Homemade Ice Cream.
Fitchburg
- Population: 40,441
- Home Price: $180,200 median purchase price; $912 median monthly rent price
- Crime Rate: Safer than 10% of Massachusetts cities
- Unemployment Rate: 7.1%
Looking for an affordable home in Massachusetts? Check out Fitchburg! Located in northern Worcester County, you can find Colonial and Tudor-style homes with good-sized yards along tree-lined streets. Families living in Fitchburg can send their kids to schools in the Fitchburg Public School District. For college students or those looking for higher-education jobs, this city is home to Fitchburg State University. Whether you have kids or are a young adult, you can stay busy thanks to a large selection of restaurants, coffee shops, parks, and other things to do in Fitchburg.
Things to Do in Fitchburg
Walk through art exhibits, see artwork from local artists, and more at the Fitchburg Art Museum. With over 150 acres, walk with your furry friend on one of the many trails at the Crocker Conservation Area. Become a member and tee off at the 18-hole golf course, play a game of tennis, grab a bite to eat, and more at the Oak Hill Country Club. Play a game of air hockey in the arcade, sign the kiddos up for one of the many youth sports programs, or play basketball or volleyball in one of the adult sports leagues at Game On Sports & Performance Center. Start your day with breakfast favorites such as Sausage Gravy and Biscuits, Eggs Benedict, and Bottomless Coffee at The 50/50 Diner. Enjoy Italian delicacies like Stuffed Eggplant, Lobster & Shrimp Risotto, or Spinach and Garlic Tortellini while dining at Dario’s Ristorante. Try the Not Just Mac & Cheese, Meatball & Cheese Sandwich, or a bowl of Clam Chowder at Slattery’s Restaurant & Bar. Or, for a modern twist on authentic Mexican dishes, order the Pork Fried Beans, Pollo En Su Mole, or Las Fajitas at Zapata Mexican Cocina.
Gardner
- Population: 20,334
- Home Price: $173,200 median purchase price; $767 median monthly rent price
- Crime Rate: Safer than 12% of Massachusetts cities
- Unemployment Rate: 4.6%
Searching for affordable living in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts? Look no further than Gardner! Located between Boston and Springfield, the City of Gardner is a great place to live without paying the high price of city living. Worcester County residents will have an excellent choice of apartments to single-family homes near access to Gardner Public Schools. And for those looking for higher education opportunities, Gardner houses Mount Wachusett Community College.
Things to Do in Gardner
Join a bowling league or have a family fun night knocking down pins at Gardner Ten Pins. Learn how to golf or book a tee time at Gardner Golf Course. Catch a fish, hike the Woodland Trail, or go cross-country skiing at Dunn State Park. Known as one of the most haunted homes in Massachusetts, experience paranormal activity while touring SK Pierce Victorian Mansion, once the home of wealthy businessman Sylvester K. Pierce. For brunch, order the Meat Lovers Omelet, Pile of French Toast, or Chicken and Waffle at Gardner Ale House. Dig into the 2 Piece Chicken Dinner, Shrimp Dinner, or the Chicken B.L.T. Sandwich from Duguay’s Chicken & Seafood. Chow down a Chili Cheeseburger, Lobster Roll, or Foot Long Hotdog—and don’t forget to save room for a scoop of Black Raspberry Ice Cream at Kay’s Dairy Bar. Or try the Chicken Broccoli Alfredo, Corned Beef Rueben, or the Pot Roast from Williams Restaurant.
New Bedford
- Population: 94,988
- Home Price: $204,100 median purchase price; $777 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 8% of Massachusetts cities
- Unemployment Rate: 6.4%
If you’re looking for a city in Massachusetts that’s close to the Boston area, check out New Bedford! Not only is this mid-size city within an hour of Boston, but it also offers plenty to do within its boundaries. Searching for a job in the New Bedford area? Thanks to its location along the Massachusetts southern coast, locals can find jobs with the Port of New Bedford commercial fishing, maritime, and marine technology jobs—not to mention that this area’s great for recreational fishing, boating, and sailing, too! In addition, New Bedford is brimming with Colonial history and architecture, cultural diversity, and quaint coastal New England charm.
Things to Do in New Bedford
Enjoy views of Buzzards Bay while fishing on the pier, have a picnic on the beach, or check out historical landmarks such as Fort Taber Military Museum at Fort Taber Park. Catch a 3D Film at Big Blue Pictures, learn about Captain Paul Cuffe, or see the half-scale model of the Lago while visiting the New Bedford Whaling Museum. See a green basilisk, moon jelly, or an Asian elephant at Buttonwood Park Zoo. Marvel at the mansion, walk through the rose garden, and learn about the Quaker lifestyle at The Rotch-Jones-Duff House & Garden Museum. Devour breakfast favorites like the Traditional Eggs Benny, All the Meats Omelet, or Sausage Breakfast Sandwich from Little Phoenix Restaurant. Try authentic Portuguese dishes like Paella, Grilled Lamb Chops, and the Linguica Sandwich, and save room for homemade Caramel Pudding Flan Custard at Antonio’s Restaurant. Enjoy tapas favorites like the Meat & Cheese Board or Yuca Fries over a flight of wine while enjoying live music at Cork. Or try different types of Bubble tea, such as Berry Tyler Moore and Queen B, or create your own Bubble Tea at BesTeas Bubble Tea Room.
Spencer
- Population: 5,790
- Home Price: $202,200 median purchase price; $706 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 53% of Massachusetts cities
- Unemployment Rate: 4.2%
Settle down in one of the safest cities in Massachusetts! Spencer‘s small-town feel is perfect for anyone looking to live a slower pace of life at an affordable price point. Not only does the town’s largely agricultural focus mean you can find a home with more spacious grounds—but Spencer and its surrounding area are also heavily-forested, offering plenty of outdoor recreation! Despite its quieter feel, you’ll still have plenty of things to do—the charming Spencer Town Center Historic District is home to various local cafes, restaurants, and shops.
Things to Do in Spencer
Go fishing and enjoy a family picnic at Howe Pond, or have fun snowmobiling during the winter season at the 965-acre Spencer State Forest. Take riding lessons or sign children up for summer camp at Camp Marshall Equestrian Center. See local wildlife like beavers, otters, and migratory birds while walking the trails at Burncoat Pond Wildlife Sanctuary. Run on the treadmill, lift weights, or learn how to train like a boxer when signing up for a boxing class at Guaranteed Fitness Center. Stop by for Scallion Pancakes, Velvet Chicken Corn Soup, or Beef Moo Shi at Chef Sau. Order a bowl of Chowder Soup, Baked Stuffed Haddock, and other home-cooked New England favorites at Charlie’s Diner. Try the Surf N Turf, Pasta & Meatballs, or Fried Chicken Sandwich from Connect Restaurant. Or feast on the Swiss Griller Burger, Coney Island Hot Dog, or Tomato Grilled Sandwich from Dashboard Diner.
Westfield
- Population: 41,486
- Home Price: $222,200 median purchase price; $913 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 46% of Massachusetts cities
- Unemployment Rate: 5.4%
Close to the Connecticut-Massachusetts border, Westfield is one of the best places to raise a family in Massachusetts, thanks to its budget-friendly housing, quiet streets, and great schools like St. Mary’s Parish School, Westfield High School, and even Westfield State University. Though it has a smaller, more rural feel, the City of Westfield still offers plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops for residents. And since Westfield is part of the larger Springfield metro, there are even more things to do within a 20-minute drive!
Things to Do in Westfield
Book a tee time, sign up for golf lessons, or pick up your golf gear at the pro shop once you become a member of East Mountain Country Club. Watch your little ones dig for dinosaur bones, pilot a spaceship, or shop for groceries at Amelia Park Children’s Museum. Explore many different gardens, such as the Asian Garden or the Woodland Wildflower Garden, visit the Colonial-Era Village, or participate in the annual Run Stanley 5k & the Wheel Walk at Stanley Park. Participate in one of the many contests like Lawn Mower Racing or the Hay Bale Toss, listen to live music, ride the carousel, and more in August during the annual Westfield Fair. Grab the Blueberry Chia Oatmeal and Nitro Iced Coffee from Circuit Coffee on your way to work. Treat yourself to Banana Split Sundae Pancakes, a Breakfast BLT, or the No Frills Frittatas from Pancake Sundaes Diner & Bakery. Enjoy Italian favorites like Shrimp Scampi, Chicken Saltimbocca, or Salmon Piccata while dining at Emma’s Everyday Gourmet. Or catch up with friends over Buffalo Chicken Dip, Chili Mac & Cheese, or a Pulled Pork Sandwich at Hanger Pub & Brewery.
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City statistics from AreaVibes
