Boston, MA variant. This is a Boston, MA-specific version of the Rent vs Buy 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 Rent vs Buy Calculator.
In Boston, renting costs about $3,300/month while owning the $760,000 median home runs roughly $4,723/month all-in - the gap drives the rent-vs-buy decision.
Rent vs. buy in Boston
Owning includes P&I (≈ $3,843), property tax (≈ $659), and insurance - about $4,723/month before maintenance, versus $3,300 to rent.
Buying wins when you stay long enough to amortize the $152,000 down payment and closing costs, and when appreciation plus equity outpace the rent you'd otherwise pay.
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: monthly comparison
Own ≈ $4,723/mo vs. rent $3,300/mo - a $1,423 premium to own. Factor in the $152,000 down payment and expected years in the home.
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
Is it better to rent or buy in Boston?
Owning runs ≈ $4,723/month vs. $3,300 to rent. Buying favors longer stays that recover the $152,000 down payment and closing costs.
What's the median rent in Boston?
About $3,300 per month.