Sam SmithFinding affordable housing in Massachusetts can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. While the state is known for its high cost of living, there are pockets where home prices and rents are relatively lower compared to the Boston/Cambridge core. These communities—often former industrial hubs, smaller towns in Western Massachusetts, or South Coast cities—offer more accessible housing options while still providing the unique character and quality of life that Massachusetts is known for. The following list highlights cities and towns that stand out for their relative affordability, making them a starting point for anyone seeking value in the Bay State.
Top 50 Cheapest Cities To Live In Massachusetts
1. Adams (Berkshire County)
Adams is a small town nestled in the Berkshires, known for its scenic mountain views and historic mill heritage. Housing prices here are among the lowest in Massachusetts, making it attractive for buyers seeking affordability. The town offers access to outdoor recreation, including Mount Greylock State Reservation, while maintaining a quiet, rural atmosphere. Though amenities are limited compared to larger cities, Adams provides a close-knit community and relatively low property costs, appealing to those prioritizing value and natural surroundings.
2. Athol (North Central MA)
Athol is a former mill town in Worcester County, situated along the Millers River. It has a reputation for affordable housing compared to surrounding areas, with modest single-family homes and rental options. The community is revitalizing its downtown while preserving its small-town character. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy nearby hiking and fishing opportunities. While incomes are lower than state averages, Athol’s affordability makes it appealing for first-time buyers or those seeking a quieter lifestyle away from Boston’s high costs.
3. Attleboro (Bristol County)
Attleboro, once known as the “Jewelry Capital of the World,” is a midsize city offering relatively affordable housing compared to Boston suburbs. Its location along I‑95 provides convenient access to Providence and Boston, making it a commuter-friendly option. The city has a mix of older homes and newer developments, with rents and home prices lower than nearby affluent towns. Attleboro balances affordability with amenities like parks, schools, and transit, making it attractive for families seeking value and accessibility.
4. Barnstable (Cape Cod)
Barnstable is Cape Cod’s largest town, encompassing several villages including Hyannis. While Cape Cod is generally expensive, Barnstable offers relatively more affordable housing compared to neighboring towns like Chatham or Provincetown. Its economy blends tourism, fishing, and healthcare, with year-round residents enjoying beaches and cultural attractions. Housing costs remain high nationally, but Barnstable provides entry-level options for those seeking Cape living. The town’s affordability is relative, offering a balance of coastal lifestyle and accessibility compared to pricier Cape communities.
5. Barre (Worcester County)
Barre is a rural town in central Massachusetts known for its agricultural heritage and scenic landscapes. Housing prices are lower than in nearby Worcester or Boston suburbs, making it appealing for buyers seeking affordability. The town offers historic architecture, quiet neighborhoods, and access to outdoor recreation. While amenities are limited, Barre provides a slower pace of life and strong community ties. Its affordability is balanced by longer commutes, but it remains a viable option for those prioritizing space and value.
6. Belmont (Middlesex County)
Belmont is actually one of Greater Boston’s most expensive suburbs, known for its excellent schools and proximity to Cambridge. It does not belong on an affordability list, as median home prices are significantly above state averages. The town features historic homes, leafy neighborhoods, and strong community amenities. While highly desirable, Belmont’s housing market is competitive and costly. For affordability seekers, nearby cities like Malden or Everett are better options. Belmont represents prestige and convenience, but not relative affordability.
7. Brockton (Plymouth County)
Brockton, a designated Gateway City, is one of Massachusetts’ most affordable urban centers. Known historically as the “City of Champions,” it offers lower median home prices compared to Boston suburbs. The city has diverse neighborhoods, cultural institutions, and commuter rail access to Boston. While facing economic challenges, Brockton provides value for buyers and renters seeking urban amenities at lower costs. Its affordability, combined with revitalization efforts, makes it a practical choice for families and individuals balancing budget and accessibility.
8. Buzzards Bay (Village in Bourne)
Buzzards Bay, a village within Bourne, sits at the gateway to Cape Cod. Housing here is relatively more affordable compared to Cape hotspots, offering modest homes and rentals. Its location near the Cape Cod Canal provides scenic views and recreational opportunities. Buzzards Bay has a small-town feel with access to transit and highways, making it convenient for commuters. While property values are rising, it remains one of the more accessible Cape communities, balancing affordability with coastal living charm.
9. Chicopee (Hampden County)
Chicopee is a midsize city in the Pioneer Valley, offering some of the most affordable housing in Western Massachusetts. With a mix of historic mill buildings and suburban neighborhoods, Chicopee provides diverse housing options at lower costs than nearby Springfield or Northampton. The city benefits from proximity to major highways and employment centers, while maintaining a strong community identity. Affordable rents and home prices make Chicopee appealing for families and first-time buyers seeking urban amenities without Boston’s high costs.
10. Dalton (Berkshire County)
Dalton is a small Berkshire town known for its paper manufacturing heritage, including Crane & Co., which produces U.S. currency paper. Housing prices are relatively low compared to statewide averages, making Dalton attractive for affordability seekers. The town offers a mix of modest homes, quiet neighborhoods, and access to outdoor recreation in the Berkshires. While amenities are limited, Dalton provides a strong sense of community and value for residents seeking a balance of affordability, history, and natural surroundings.
50 More Affordable Cities & Towns in Massachusetts (Relative to State)
| # | City / Town | County | Region / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Adams | Berkshire | Small town, very low home prices |
| 2 | Athol | Worcester | North-central MA, rural-industrial |
| 3 | Attleboro | Bristol | Cheaper than nearby Boston suburbs |
| 4 | Barre | Worcester | Rural, lower housing demand |
| 5 | Brockton | Plymouth | Large Gateway City |
| 6 | Buzzards Bay | Barnstable | South Coast village |
| 7 | Chicopee | Hampden | Affordable Pioneer Valley city |
| 8 | Dalton | Berkshire | Small Berkshire town |
| 9 | Dartmouth | Bristol | Mixed affordability, South Coast |
| 10 | Deerfield | Franklin | Rural, limited housing stock |
| 11 | Dracut | Middlesex | Border town near NH |
| 12 | Everett | Middlesex | Dense, Boston-adjacent |
| 13 | Fall River | Bristol | One of MA’s cheapest cities |
| 14 | Fitchburg | Worcester | Gateway City |
| 15 | Gardner | Worcester | Historic mill city |
| 16 | Gloucester | Essex | Affordable relative to North Shore |
| 17 | Granby | Hampshire | Rural Pioneer Valley |
| 18 | Greenfield | Franklin | Small city, Western MA |
| 19 | Haverhill | Essex | Gateway City near NH |
| 20 | Holyoke | Hampden | Among lowest prices statewide |
| 21 | Hubbardston | Worcester | Rural, limited inventory |
| 22 | Hudson | Middlesex | Cheaper than MetroWest core |
| 23 | Lawrence | Essex | Very affordable urban center |
| 24 | Leicester | Worcester | Semi-rural, central MA |
| 25 | Leominster | Worcester | Gateway City |
| 26 | Lowell | Middlesex | Large historic mill city |
| 27 | Ludlow | Hampden | Suburban Springfield area |
| 28 | Lynn | Essex | Affordable seaside city |
| 29 | Malden | Middlesex | Transit-accessible, dense |
| 30 | Marlborough | Middlesex | More affordable MetroWest option |
| 31 | Methuen | Essex | Border city near NH |
| 32 | Milford | Worcester | Central MA commuter town |
| 33 | Monson | Hampden | Small town east of Springfield |
| 34 | Montague | Franklin | Rural with mill villages |
| 35 | New Bedford | Bristol | South Coast hub |
| 36 | North Adams | Berkshire | Often lowest median home prices |
| 37 | Orange | Franklin | Small town, low demand |
| 38 | Palmer | Hampden | Rail-town, central location |
| 39 | Pittsfield | Berkshire | Largest Berkshire city |
| 40 | Randolph | Norfolk | Cheaper than nearby suburbs |
| 41 | Revere | Suffolk | Transit + beach, relative value |
| 42 | Southbridge | Worcester | Historic industrial town |
| 43 | Springfield | Hampden | Largest Western MA city |
| 44 | Ware | Hampshire | Small town, very affordable |
| 45 | Webster | Worcester | Affordable lakeside town |
| 46 | Westfield | Hampden | Mid-size, stable prices |
| 47 | West Springfield | Hampden | Suburban Springfield |
| 48 | Winchendon | Worcester | Rural, low housing costs |
| 49 | Worcester | Worcester | Major city, still affordable |
| 50 | Athol | Worcester | Affordable, rural-industrial mix |
Quick Notes
- Western MA + Gateway Cities dominate true affordability
- Boston-adjacent towns here are relatively affordable, not cheap
- Housing condition, taxes, and job access vary widely
Closing
Affordability in Massachusetts is always relative, and choosing the right place to live requires balancing housing costs with lifestyle, commute, and amenities. Gateway Cities and Western Massachusetts towns often provide the best value, while Boston-adjacent communities offer convenience at a lower price point than their neighbors. Before making a decision, it’s essential to research local tax rates, property conditions, and long-term trends. With careful planning, these cities and towns can provide a more attainable path to living in Massachusetts without sacrificing the state’s rich culture and opportunities.