Needham, MA
Population 32,059 · Massachusetts
About Needham, MA
Needham is a mid-sized city in Massachusetts with a population of 32,059 residents. The median household income is $212,241 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Needham is 43 years.
Housing in Needham has a median home value of $1,146,000 and median monthly rent of $2,412. Of the 11,754 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 9,612 owner-occupied and 1,789 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Needham is 4.5% and the poverty rate is 3.8%. 80.8% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 28.6 minutes.
How Needham Ranks in Massachusetts
Cost of Living in Needham, MA
Compared to national averages, Needham has a median household income of $212,241 (182% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $1,146,000, which is 368% above the national median. Monthly rent at $2,412 is 107% above the US average of $1,163. Within Massachusetts, Needham's income is 101% above the state average of $105,630, and home values are 104% above the state median of $561,296.
Why Live in Needham, MA?
Needham offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $212,241, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 80.8% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 3.8%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $1,146,000. However, Needham’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Needham has a population of 32,059 with a median age of 43 years. Compare Needham with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Massachusetts.
Similar Cities Near Needham
Cities in Massachusetts with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Norwood | 31,380 | $97,110 | $613,500 | Compare |
| Franklin Town | 33,067 | $142,788 | $567,100 | Compare |
| North Attleborough Town | 30,842 | $109,426 | $462,700 | Compare |
| Lexington | 34,085 | $219,402 | $1,147,900 | Compare |
| Wellesley | 29,906 | $250,001 | $1,513,400 | Compare |
| Gloucester | 29,862 | $87,898 | $587,800 | Compare |
| Melrose | 29,488 | $126,854 | $796,100 | Compare |
| Randolph Town | 34,683 | $103,129 | $463,500 | 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 Needham
What is the population of Needham, MA?
The population of Needham, MA is 32,059 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Needham?
The median household income in Needham, MA is $212,241 per year.
What is the median home value in Needham?
The median home value in Needham, MA is $1,146,000.
What is the average rent in Needham?
The median monthly rent in Needham, MA is $2,412.
What is the unemployment rate in Needham?
The unemployment rate in Needham, MA is 4.5%.