Reading, MA
Population 25,448 · Massachusetts
About Reading, MA
Reading is a mid-sized city in Massachusetts with a population of 25,448 residents. The median household income is $163,725 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Reading is 44.1 years.
Housing in Reading has a median home value of $741,100 and median monthly rent of $1,722. Of the 9,882 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 7,956 owner-occupied and 1,618 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Reading is 3.0% and the poverty rate is 2.7%. 65.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 30.6 minutes.
How Reading Ranks in Massachusetts
Cost of Living in Reading, MA
Compared to national averages, Reading has a median household income of $163,725 (118% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $741,100, which is 203% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,722 is 48% above the US average of $1,163. Within Massachusetts, Reading's income is 55% above the state average of $105,630, and home values are 32% above the state median of $561,296.
Why Live in Reading, MA?
Reading offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $163,725, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.0%, and a well-educated community where 65.1% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 2.7%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $741,100. However, Reading’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Reading has a population of 25,448 with a median age of 44.1 years. Compare Reading with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Massachusetts.
Similar Cities Near Reading
Cities in Massachusetts with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dedham | 25,109 | $124,375 | $630,400 | Compare |
| Burlington | 26,223 | $142,207 | $679,400 | Compare |
| Belmont | 27,009 | $178,188 | $1,108,800 | Compare |
| Wakefield | 27,284 | $130,320 | $670,100 | Compare |
| Wilmington | 23,195 | $161,473 | $646,200 | Compare |
| Stoneham | 22,986 | $112,635 | $629,000 | Compare |
| Milford | 27,919 | $88,992 | $429,800 | Compare |
| Danvers | 27,924 | $117,072 | $611,200 | 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 Reading
What is the population of Reading, MA?
The population of Reading, MA is 25,448 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Reading?
The median household income in Reading, MA is $163,725 per year.
What is the median home value in Reading?
The median home value in Reading, MA is $741,100.
What is the average rent in Reading?
The median monthly rent in Reading, MA is $1,722.
What is the unemployment rate in Reading?
The unemployment rate in Reading, MA is 3.0%.