Cost of Living in Essex, MA
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
232.6
100 = national avg
+132.6 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$102,346
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$241,908
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing291.7
Food169.3
Transportation238.6
Healthcare155.4
Utilities179.9
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$2,476
per month
2 Bedroom
$2,941
per month
The overall cost of living index in Essex is 232.6, which is 132.6% above the national average. Housing costs are above the national average at an index of 291.7. A single adult needs to earn approximately $102,346 per year to cover basic expenses.