Average Rent in Lawrence, MA↑ Rents rising 2.4% YoY

Lawrence, MA has rental prices ranging from $1,346/month to $2,603/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,498/month — 7% above the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $112,484/year, spending $1,498/month on a 1-bedroom represents 16% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Lawrence Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,963/month, Lawrence ranks #9 most expensive of the 21 cities tracked in Massachusetts — pricier than 98% of all US cities in our data.

The Lawrence Rental Market

The Lawrence, MA area has a population of about 4,917,661 and 38% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Lawrence, MA have risen by $46/month (2.4%) over the past year, from $1,917 to $1,963. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Lawrence, MA without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $59,920. The local median household income of $112,484 exceeds that threshold by $52,564, making Lawrence relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Rent vs. Buy

The median home value in Lawrence, MA is $516,425, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 21.9. With a break-even horizon of approximately 22 years, renting is likely the more financially prudent option for most residents unless they plan to stay long-term.

Is Lawrence, MA Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Rent or Buy in Lawrence?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Living in Lawrence

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.