Massachusetts · Population 205,501 · Updated March 2026
How far your income goes in Worcester
State-level tax rates that affect your costs
Worcester has a cost of living close to the national average, offering a balanced mix of expenses and amenities. With a cost index of 104 (where 100 equals the national median), Worcester residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,415/month while earning a median household income of $67,544/year.
The median home value in Worcester, MA is $339,500, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,521 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. With a rent-to-income ratio of 25.1%, Worcester falls within the generally affordable range, though it's approaching the 30% burden threshold.
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 Worcester.
Common questions about living costs in Worcester
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