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Rent vs Buy in Boston, MA

Pre-filled with 2026 median data for Boston. Adjust any number to match your situation.

Median Home Price

$795,000

Median Rent/Month

$3,100

Property Tax Rate

1.09%/yr

Avg Appreciation

3.8%/yr

Adjust Your Numbers

$795,000
20% ($159,000)
$3,100
7.0%
7 years

Is It Worth Buying a Home in Boston, MA?

The decision to rent or buy in Boston, Massachusetts depends on how long you plan to stay, your down payment, and current mortgage rates. With a median home price of $795,000 and median monthly rent of $3,100, the math plays out differently depending on your personal situation.

Boston has an average property tax rate of 1.09% annually, which adds approximately $722/month to the cost of homeownership on a median-priced home.

Historically, home values in Boston have appreciated at roughly 3.8% per year, which works in favor of buyers who plan to stay long-term. Use the calculator above to find your personal break-even point.

Key Factors for Boston Buyers

  • Down payment of 20% on a median home = $159,000
  • Monthly mortgage (30yr at 6.99%) ≈ $4,227/mo
  • Property tax ≈ $722/mo
  • Estimated maintenance ≈ $663/mo