Lawrence, MA
Population 88,297 · Massachusetts
About Lawrence, MA
Lawrence is a mid-sized city located in Massachusetts with a population of 88,297 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $57,903 per year, which is 23% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 32.6 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Lawrence features a median home value of $393,500, which is 61% above the national median of $244,900. This places Lawrence in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,569, 35% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 31,929 total housing units, 30% are owner-occupied (9,407 units) and 70% are renter-occupied (21,602 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Lawrence shows an unemployment rate of 8.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 18.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Lawrence have an average one-way commute time of 23.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
16.4% of Lawrence residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 1.2% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 17.8% Black or African American, and 63.0% Asian residents, with 43.7% of the population being foreign-born.
How Lawrence Ranks in Massachusetts
Cost of Living in Lawrence, MA
Compared to national averages, Lawrence has a median household income of $57,903 (23% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $393,500, which is 61% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,569 is 35% above the US average of $1,163. Within Massachusetts, Lawrence's income is 45% below the state average of $105,630, and home values are 30% below the state median of $561,296.
Why Live in Lawrence, MA?
Lawrence offers short commute times averaging just 23.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($57,903) that falls below the national average, and a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $393,500. However, as a mid-sized city, Lawrence provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Lawrence has a population of 88,297 with a median age of 32.6 years. Compare Lawrence with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Massachusetts.
Similar Cities Near Lawrence
Cities in Massachusetts with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Newton | 88,504 | $184,989 | $1,202,500 | Compare |
| Fall River | 93,764 | $53,933 | $357,800 | Compare |
| Somerville | 80,549 | $127,056 | $899,400 | Compare |
| New Bedford | 100,731 | $56,025 | $324,400 | Compare |
| Lynn | 100,905 | $74,715 | $472,600 | Compare |
| Quincy | 101,361 | $95,711 | $598,100 | Compare |
| Framingham | 72,013 | $98,179 | $600,600 | Compare |
| Brockton | 105,080 | $77,089 | $405,500 | 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.
Compare Lawrence With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Lawrence
What is the population of Lawrence, MA?
The population of Lawrence, MA is 88,297 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Massachusetts.
What is the median household income in Lawrence?
The median household income in Lawrence, MA is $57,903 per year, which is 23% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Lawrence?
The median home value in Lawrence, MA is $393,500, which is 61% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Lawrence?
The median monthly rent in Lawrence, MA is $1,569, which is 35% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Lawrence?
The unemployment rate in Lawrence, MA is 8.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Lawrence, MA a good place to live?
Lawrence offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 88,297 and a median age of 32.6, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Lawrence, MA?
16.4% of residents in Lawrence aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Lawrence?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Lawrence, MA: median home value is $393,500 (61% above national), median rent is $1,569/month, and median household income is $57,903. The home-value-to-income ratio is 6.8x, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in Lawrence?
The poverty rate in Lawrence, MA is 18.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Lawrence, MA?
Lawrence's population is 1.2% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 17.8% Black or African American, 63.0% Asian, and 2.1% two or more races. 43.7% of residents are foreign-born.