Cost of Living in Newton, MA
Population 88,504 · Massachusetts · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Housing in Newton sits 294% above the national median — $1.2 million for the typical home — but median household incomes near $184,989 (148% above the US figure) soften the blow that similar pricing creates in lower-wage metros.
Located 6 miles southwest of Cambridge, Newton falls within that metro's commuting orbit. Median home values run roughly 16% higher than Cambridge's $1 million.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Newton
The median home value in Newton is $1,202,500 — 294% above the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $2,388/month, 82% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $184,989/year is 148% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 3.3%, below the national average of 4.8%. Massachusetts's top state income tax rate is 9.0% and the combined sales tax is 6.3%. Overall, Newton has a cost of living index of 309 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 209% more expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Newton, MA?
Newton has a cost index of 309 (100 = national average). It is 209% above the national average.
What is average rent in Newton, MA?
The median gross rent in Newton is $2,388 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Newton?
The median home value in Newton is $1,202,500 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Newton?
The median household income in Newton is $184,989 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Newton, MA?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Newton is 6.3%. The Massachusetts state income tax top rate is 9.0%.
Is Newton, MA affordable?
Newton is above average in cost of living, with an index of 309 — about 209% higher than the national average.
Newton at a Glance
- Population
- 88,504
- Median Income
- $184,989
- Home Value
- $1,202,500
- Median Rent
- $2,388/mo
- Unemployment
- 3.3%
- Sales Tax
- 6.3%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Massachusetts Rankings
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