Chelsea, MA
Population 39,460 · Massachusetts
About Chelsea, MA
Chelsea is a mid-sized city in Massachusetts with a population of 39,460 residents. The median household income is $72,220 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Chelsea is 34.5 years.
Housing in Chelsea has a median home value of $476,500 and median monthly rent of $1,859. Of the 14,178 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 3,949 owner-occupied and 9,589 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Chelsea is 8.8% and the poverty rate is 20.6%. 22.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 33.5 minutes.
How Chelsea Ranks in Massachusetts
Cost of Living in Chelsea, MA
Compared to national averages, Chelsea has a median household income of $72,220 (4% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $476,500, which is 95% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,859 is 60% above the US average of $1,163. Within Massachusetts, Chelsea's income is 32% below the state average of $105,630, and home values are 15% below the state median of $561,296.
Why Live in Chelsea, MA?
Potential considerations include median household income ($72,220) that falls below the national average, and a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $476,500. However, Chelsea’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Chelsea has a population of 39,460 with a median age of 34.5 years. Compare Chelsea with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Massachusetts.
Similar Cities Near Chelsea
Cities in Massachusetts with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Braintree Town | 38,762 | $125,305 | $623,200 | Compare |
| Westfield | 40,673 | $82,847 | $295,500 | Compare |
| Holyoke | 37,949 | $51,892 | $255,300 | Compare |
| Woburn | 41,205 | $107,754 | $641,800 | Compare |
| Marlborough | 41,398 | $95,047 | $485,400 | Compare |
| Fitchburg | 41,633 | $70,659 | $295,500 | Compare |
| Beverly | 42,408 | $103,739 | $621,900 | Compare |
| Amherst Town | 35,472 | $65,938 | $454,000 | 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 Chelsea
What is the population of Chelsea, MA?
The population of Chelsea, MA is 39,460 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Chelsea?
The median household income in Chelsea, MA is $72,220 per year.
What is the median home value in Chelsea?
The median home value in Chelsea, MA is $476,500.
What is the average rent in Chelsea?
The median monthly rent in Chelsea, MA is $1,859.
What is the unemployment rate in Chelsea?
The unemployment rate in Chelsea, MA is 8.8%.