Boston, MA
Population 663,972 · Massachusetts
About Boston, MA
Boston is a major city in Massachusetts with a population of 663,972 residents. The median household income is $94,755 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Boston is 33.2 years.
Housing in Boston has a median home value of $710,400 and median monthly rent of $2,093. Of the 307,840 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 98,813 owner-occupied and 180,403 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Boston is 6.0% and the poverty rate is 16.9%. 54.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 30.2 minutes.
How Boston Ranks in Massachusetts
Cost of Living in Boston, MA
Compared to national averages, Boston has a median household income of $94,755 (26% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $710,400, which is 190% above the national median. Monthly rent at $2,093 is 80% above the US average of $1,163. Within Massachusetts, Boston's income is 10% below the state average of $105,630, and home values are 27% above the state median of $561,296.
Why Live in Boston, MA?
Boston offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $94,755, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 54.1% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $710,400. However, as a major city, Boston provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Boston has a population of 663,972 with a median age of 33.2 years. Compare Boston with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Massachusetts.
Similar Cities Near Boston
Cities in Massachusetts with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Worcester | 205,501 | $67,544 | $339,500 | Compare |
| Springfield | 154,751 | $51,339 | $222,700 | Compare |
| Cambridge | 117,794 | $126,469 | $1,040,500 | Compare |
| Lowell | 114,799 | $76,205 | $395,100 | Compare |
| Brockton | 105,080 | $77,089 | $405,500 | Compare |
| Quincy | 101,361 | $95,711 | $598,100 | Compare |
| Lynn | 100,905 | $74,715 | $472,600 | Compare |
| New Bedford | 100,731 | $56,025 | $324,400 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Massachusetts
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Boston
What is the population of Boston, MA?
The population of Boston, MA is 663,972 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Boston?
The median household income in Boston, MA is $94,755 per year.
What is the median home value in Boston?
The median home value in Boston, MA is $710,400.
What is the average rent in Boston?
The median monthly rent in Boston, MA is $2,093.
What is the unemployment rate in Boston?
The unemployment rate in Boston, MA is 6.0%.