Boston, MA variant. This is a Boston, MA-specific version of the Home Affordability Calculator, using pre-defined local figures (tax rates, median home and income values, and typical regional costs). For the full formula, methodology, and FAQ, open the main Home Affordability Calculator.
Affording a home in Boston pits the $89,212 median income against a $760,000 median price - a price-to-income ratio of 8.5x.
Can you afford Boston?
The 28% rule caps housing at $2,082/month on the local median income, supporting roughly $411,667 in price - versus the $760,000 Boston median.
Boston is a stretch on the median income; many buyers need higher earnings, more down, or co-borrowers.
About Boston, MA
Boston has no city income tax, so residents pay Massachusetts state income tax without an added municipal wage levy.
Boston is a high-cost housing market, with home prices and rents elevated by limited supply and steady demand.
Boston's economy is built around education, healthcare, and a leading biotechnology and life sciences sector.
Worked example: max price on $89,212
28% of $89,212 ÷ 12 ≈ $2,082/month supports about $411,667 at 6.5% with 20% down - compared with the $760,000 median.
Quick reference
- Median home value: $760,000
- Median rent: $3,300/mo
- Median household income: $89,212
- Local sales tax: 6.25%
- Effective property tax rate: 1.04%
- Cost of living index: 162 (US avg = 100)
Frequently Asked Questions
What income do I need to buy in Boston?
To afford the $760,000 median home, you'd typically need well above the $89,212 local median income at current rates.
What is the price-to-income ratio in Boston?
About 8.5x (median home ÷ median income).