Melrose, MA
Population 29,488 · Massachusetts
About Melrose, MA
Melrose is a mid-sized city in Massachusetts with a population of 29,488 residents. The median household income is $126,854 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Melrose is 44.3 years.
Housing in Melrose has a median home value of $796,100 and median monthly rent of $1,933. Of the 12,724 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 8,388 owner-occupied and 3,980 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Melrose is 4.1% and the poverty rate is 3.7%. 62.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 35.7 minutes.
Cost of Living in Melrose, MA
Compared to national averages, Melrose has a median household income of $126,854 (69% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $796,100, which is 225% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,933 is 66% above the US average of $1,163. Within Massachusetts, Melrose's income is 20% above the state average of $105,630, and home values are 42% above the state median of $561,296.
Why Live in Melrose, MA?
Melrose offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $126,854, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 62.0% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 3.7%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $796,100. However, Melrose’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Melrose has a population of 29,488 with a median age of 44.3 years. Compare Melrose with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Massachusetts.
Similar Cities Near Melrose
Cities in Massachusetts with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gloucester | 29,862 | $87,898 | $587,800 | Compare |
| Wellesley | 29,906 | $250,001 | $1,513,400 | Compare |
| Bridgewater Town | 28,669 | $112,482 | $500,600 | Compare |
| Northampton | 28,640 | $78,467 | $398,000 | Compare |
| West Springfield Town | 28,635 | $70,401 | $307,900 | Compare |
| Saugus | 28,599 | $100,819 | $589,500 | Compare |
| Agawam Town | 28,510 | $82,359 | $290,000 | Compare |
| Milton | 28,481 | $178,053 | $896,500 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Melrose
What is the population of Melrose, MA?
The population of Melrose, MA is 29,488 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Melrose?
The median household income in Melrose, MA is $126,854 per year.
What is the median home value in Melrose?
The median home value in Melrose, MA is $796,100.
What is the average rent in Melrose?
The median monthly rent in Melrose, MA is $1,933.
What is the unemployment rate in Melrose?
The unemployment rate in Melrose, MA is 4.1%.