New Bedford, MA
Population 100,731 · Massachusetts
About New Bedford, MA
New Bedford is a major city in Massachusetts with a population of 100,731 residents. The median household income is $56,025 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in New Bedford is 37 years.
Housing in New Bedford has a median home value of $324,400 and median monthly rent of $1,085. Of the 44,468 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 16,880 owner-occupied and 25,353 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in New Bedford is 7.6% and the poverty rate is 19.9%. 16.8% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 25.2 minutes.
How New Bedford Ranks in Massachusetts
Cost of Living in New Bedford, MA
Compared to national averages, New Bedford has a median household income of $56,025 (25% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $324,400, which is 32% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,085 is 7% below the US average of $1,163. Within Massachusetts, New Bedford's income is 47% below the state average of $105,630, and home values are 42% below the state median of $561,296.
Why Live in New Bedford, MA?
New Bedford offers rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,085/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($56,025) that falls below the national average. However, as a major city, New Bedford provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
New Bedford has a population of 100,731 with a median age of 37 years. Compare New Bedford with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Massachusetts.
Similar Cities Near New Bedford
Cities in Massachusetts with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lynn | 100,905 | $74,715 | $472,600 | Compare |
| Quincy | 101,361 | $95,711 | $598,100 | Compare |
| Brockton | 105,080 | $77,089 | $405,500 | Compare |
| Fall River | 93,764 | $53,933 | $357,800 | Compare |
| Newton | 88,504 | $184,989 | $1,202,500 | Compare |
| Lawrence | 88,297 | $57,903 | $393,500 | Compare |
| Lowell | 114,799 | $76,205 | $395,100 | Compare |
| Cambridge | 117,794 | $126,469 | $1,040,500 | 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 New Bedford
What is the population of New Bedford, MA?
The population of New Bedford, MA is 100,731 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in New Bedford?
The median household income in New Bedford, MA is $56,025 per year.
What is the median home value in New Bedford?
The median home value in New Bedford, MA is $324,400.
What is the average rent in New Bedford?
The median monthly rent in New Bedford, MA is $1,085.
What is the unemployment rate in New Bedford?
The unemployment rate in New Bedford, MA is 7.6%.