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Transparent & data-driven

How We Ranked the Best Cities

Each city is scored against the state average on five weighted factors, normalized to control for regional cost differences and market size. Home prices, rents, and inventory come straight from Houzeo's live MLS feed; everything else is sourced from verified government datasets.

Scoring weights

  • Affordability30%

    Median home price, price per sq ft & rent relative to local incomes vs. the state average.

  • Safety & crime25%

    Violent and property crime rates per capita from FBI reporting vs. the state average.

  • Jobs & income20%

    Median household income, employment levels & job stability vs. the state average.

  • Housing & inventory15%

    Active listings, days on market & buyer competition from Houzeo’s live MLS feed.

  • Lifestyle & amenities10%

    Schools, walkability, commute times & access to everyday amenities — the tiebreaker.

Explore the Best Neighborhoods of Cities in Massachusetts

Your New Home is Waiting for You in Massachusetts

Top 3 Best Places to Retire in Massachusetts

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Top 3 Best Places to Live in Massachusetts for Families

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Top 3 Best Places to Live in Massachusetts for Young Adults

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Best Affordable Places to Live in Massachusetts

Massachusetts includes several communities offering lower housing costs and more manageable living expenses while keeping residents close to jobs and services. Here are some of the most affordable places to live in Massachusetts. These locations are ideal for individuals or families seeking value without sacrificing access to opportunities.

CityMedian Home PriceMedian RentCost of Living vs. State Avg.Affordability Score
Adams $229,288$1,250arrow 17% lower8.6/10
North Adams $247,000$1,500arrow 22% lower8.6/10
Pittsfield $268,500$1,500arrow 26% lower8.6/10
Holyoke $320,000$1,495arrow 20% lower8.5/10
Chicopee $301,000$1,523arrow 17% lower8.4/10

Safest Places to Live in Massachusetts

Safety is a key factor for many people choosing where to live in Massachusetts. The following cities consistently show lower levels of violent and property crime based on recent FBI statistics. You can find a complete breakdown in our detailed rankings of the safest places to live in Massachusetts. Our safety evaluations rely on FBI data from both the Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program and the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS).

Rank#1

Arlington

95/100

Score

Safest Safest

Rank#2

Franklin

94/100

Score

Safest Safest

Rank#3

Clinton

93/100

Score

Safest Safest

Rank#4

Newton

92/100

Score

Safest Safest

Rank#5

Brookline

87/100

Score

Safest Safest

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Based on information provided to and compiled by MLS Property Information Network, Inc. covering through Sep 10, 2026, 1:45 PM. The property listing data and information, or the Images, set forth herein were provided to MLS Property Information Network, Inc. from third-party sources, including sellers, lessors and public records, and were compiled by MLS Property Information Network, Inc. The property listing data and information, and the Images, are for the personal, non-commercial use of consumers having a good faith interest in purchasing or leasing listed properties of the type displayed to them and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties which such consumers may have a good faith interest in purchasing or leasing. MLS Property Information Network, Inc. and its subscribers disclaim any and all representations and warranties as to the accuracy of the property listing data and information, or as to the accuracy of any of the Images, set forth herein. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified. © 2026 MLS Property Information Network, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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MLS Disclaimers
The market analysis provided on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Data is sourced from public records, industry reports, and third-party providers, and while Houzeo strives for accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

All estimates, projections, and historical data are based on statistical models and should not be relied upon as predictions of future market conditions. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and real estate market conditions may change due to various economic and regulatory factors. Users are responsible for conducting their own due diligence before making any real estate or financial decisions. Houzeo is not liable for any decisions or actions taken based on the information provided. Any unauthorized use, duplication, or distribution of the data may violate copyright laws and result in legal consequences. Certain information, tools and services on this page may be powered by third-party vendors. Houzeo does not control or guarantee the accuracy, reliability, or functionality of such third-party services.