Gardner, MA

Below Avg · 81

Massachusetts · Population 21,075 · Updated March 2026

$1,071
Median Rent / Month
$62,948
Median Income
$271,300
Median Home Value
$1,171
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Gardner

20.4%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in Massachusetts

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

9.0%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
6.25%
Sales Tax
1.15%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$12,852
Annual Rent
$5,665
State Income Tax
$3,120
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Gardner is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 81 (where 100 equals the national median), Gardner residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,071/month while earning a median household income of $62,948/year.

The median home value in Gardner, MA is $271,300, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,171 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 20.4% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

Massachusetts's top income tax rate of 9.0% is among the highest in the nation, adding to the overall cost burden. Combined with a 6.25% sales tax rate and 1.15% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Gardner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Gardner

What is the cost of living in Gardner, MA?
The cost of living index in Gardner, MA is 81 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,071, median household income is $62,948/year, and the median home value is $271,300.
Is Gardner, MA affordable?
Yes, Gardner is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 81. The rent-to-income ratio is 20.4%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Gardner, MA?
The median gross rent in Gardner, MA is $1,071 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $12,852.
What is the median household income in Gardner?
The median household income in Gardner, MA is $62,948 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts has a top income tax rate of 9.0%, a sales tax of 6.25%, and an effective property tax rate of 1.15%.