Average Rent in Worcester, MA↓ Rents falling 0.6% YoY

Worcester, MA has rental prices ranging from $1,577/month to $2,915/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,587/month — 13% above the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $93,561/year, spending $1,587/month on a 1-bedroom represents 20% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Worcester Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $2,043/month, Worcester ranks #10 most expensive of the 22 cities tracked in Massachusetts — pricier than 97% of all US cities in our data.

The Worcester Rental Market

The Worcester, MA area has a population of about 861,664 and 34% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Worcester, MA have fallen by $13/month (0.6%) over the past year, from $2,056 to $2,043. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Worcester, MA without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $63,480. The local median household income of $93,561 exceeds that threshold by $30,081, making Worcester relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Rent vs. Buy

The median home value in Worcester, MA is $432,708, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 17.7. With a break-even horizon of approximately 18 years, renting is likely the more financially prudent option for most residents unless they plan to stay long-term.

Is Worcester, MA Affordable?

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

Rent or Buy in Worcester?

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

Living in Worcester

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