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Middlesex County, Massachusetts — County Report Card

MA

#5 in Massachusetts

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
50.7
County Score
Income & Jobs 99.1Health 98.8Schools 83.7

County Report Card

About Middlesex County, Massachusetts

Slightly Outperforming the National Median

Middlesex County earns a composite score of 50.7, placing it just above the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a balance of elite economic opportunities tempered by extreme cost of living pressures.

A Strong Performer in Massachusetts

The county's 50.7 score comfortably exceeds the Massachusetts state average of 48.6. It remains a primary engine of the state economy while maintaining high standards for public services.

Elite Incomes and Health Outcomes

Middlesex excels with a near-perfect Income Score of 99.1 and a Health Score of 98.8. Residents benefit from a staggering median household income of $126,779 and world-class medical infrastructure.

Struggling with Cost and Risk

The Cost Score is a near-bottom 0.8, driven by a median home value of $687,200 and rents averaging $2,126. Additionally, the Risk Score of 3.1 indicates high vulnerability to environmental stressors compared to the national average.

Ideal for High-Earning Professionals

This county is a premier choice for affluent families who prioritize top-tier schools and health services. Those who can afford the high entry price will find one of the most prosperous environments in the country.

Score breakdown

Tax34.2Cost0.8Safety46.8Health98.8Schools83.7Income99.1Risk3.1Water68Weather52.8
🏛34.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠0.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼99.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡46.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤98.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓83.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡3.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧68
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤52.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨64.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱42.6
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Nearby counties

Suffolk County
Massachusetts
43
Norfolk County
Massachusetts
51.1
Worcester County
Massachusetts
46.8
Essex County
Massachusetts
48.3
Hillsborough County
New Hampshire
39.3
Rockingham County
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Providence County
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Plymouth County
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Deep Dives

Middlesex County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Middlesex County

via TaxByCounty

Middlesex taxes nearly triple the national average

Middlesex County's effective tax rate of 1.054% significantly exceeds the national median, with residents paying $7,240 annually compared to the national median of $2,690. This places Middlesex in the upper tier of tax burden nationwide, though the county's median home value of $687,200 is 2.4 times the national median.

Slightly below Massachusetts average

Middlesex's effective tax rate of 1.054% ranks just below the state average of 1.065%, making it a middle-ground option within Massachusetts. The county's median property tax of $7,240 exceeds the state median of $5,149 by about $2,100 annually.

Moderate taxes in a high-tax region

Among its New England neighbors, Middlesex falls between Norfolk County (1.090%) and Nantucket County (0.215%), with Plymouth County (1.237%) and Worcester County (1.333%) taxing residents considerably more. Suffolk County residents enjoy the lowest rate at 0.666%, making it the most tax-friendly county in the immediate region.

Your median annual property tax bill

A homeowner with a $687,200 median-valued property in Middlesex can expect to pay approximately $7,240 annually in property taxes. This translates to roughly $604 per month, making property taxes a significant ongoing cost for county residents.

You may be overassessed

Many Middlesex County homeowners are unaware they may be paying more in property taxes than necessary due to assessment errors. Homeowners can file an appeal with their local assessor's office to review their property valuation and potentially reduce their annual tax burden.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Middlesex County

via CostByCounty

Middlesex rents bite harder than US average

Renters in Middlesex County spend 20.1% of their income on gross rent, slightly above the national average of 19.3%. While the county's median household income of $126,779 far exceeds the national median of $74,755, housing costs have kept pace with that wealth.

Middle of the pack in Massachusetts

Middlesex ranks in the middle tier of Massachusetts counties for affordability, with a rent-to-income ratio slightly above the state average of 19.3%. The county's median rent of $2,126 significantly exceeds Massachusetts's state average of $1,558, reflecting its proximity to Boston and established suburbs.

Pricier than Plymouth, similar to Norfolk

Middlesex's median rent of $2,126 edges out nearby Norfolk County at $2,072, while significantly surpassing Plymouth County's $1,655. Among Massachusetts's affluent suburban counties, Middlesex occupies the middle ground—more expensive than Plymouth but more affordable than the island premium of Nantucket at $2,070.

Renters spend twice what homeowners do

Middlesex renters pay $2,126 monthly while homeowners spend $2,480 on mortgages, yet renters' ratio (20.1%) actually exceeds owners' burden relative to the $126,779 median income. This county's high earners can absorb housing costs, but the gap between rent and ownership remains substantial.

Affluent suburbs with Boston access

Middlesex offers the rare combination of high incomes and moderate affordability for Massachusetts—ideal if you're earning above $120,000 and want suburban proximity to Boston. Compare this to Suffolk County's tighter squeeze (26.7% rent-to-income ratio) or Plymouth's lower costs but smaller income base before deciding your move.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Middlesex County

via IncomeByCounty

Middlesex earns 70% above U.S. average

Middlesex County's median household income of $126,779 towers 70% above the national median of $74,755. This places Middlesex among the nation's wealthiest counties, reflecting the region's concentration of tech, biotech, and professional services jobs.

Second-richest county in Massachusetts

Middlesex ranks second in the state by median household income at $126,779, just above the state average of $96,546. Only one Massachusetts county outpaces it in household earning power.

Outearns most Massachusetts neighbors

Middlesex's $126,779 median exceeds Norfolk County ($126,497) by a hair and Plymouth County ($109,698) by 15%. Among its peers, Middlesex stands as a wealth anchor in the Boston metro region.

Incomes stretch to cover housing costs

A rent-to-income ratio of 20.1% means residents spend one-fifth of earnings on rent—comfortably below the 30% affordability threshold. With median home values at $687,200, many households need dual incomes or substantial savings to purchase.

Build wealth beyond the paycheck

Middlesex residents earning $126,779 median have real capacity to invest in retirement, education, and real estate beyond basic housing. Consider working with a financial advisor to maximize tax-advantaged accounts and diversify assets in this high-earning region.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Middlesex County

via CrimeByCounty

Middlesex County Outshines National Safety Averages

Middlesex County is significantly safer than the national benchmark, boasting an impressive 98.1 safety score. Its total crime rate of 1,197.5 per 100K is roughly half the national average of 2,385.5.

A Leader in Massachusetts Public Safety

Within Massachusetts, Middlesex outperforms the state average safety score of 97.7. Its crime rate sits 261 points below the state average of 1,458.6 per 100K, making it a statewide leader in security.

Lower Crime Rates Than Urban Neighbors

Compared to nearby Suffolk County's high rate of 2,384.3, Middlesex maintains a much lower crime profile. It also edges out Worcester County's rate of 1,203.3 per 100K, proving its regional stability.

Low Violent Crime Defines the Region

Property crime accounts for the majority of incidents at 1,009.0 per 100K, while violent crime remains low at 188.5. These figures reflect a community where serious safety threats are rare compared to the national violent crime average of 369.8.

Preserving Your High Safety Standard

Even with a top-tier safety score of 98.1, residents should maintain basic home security awareness. Simple steps like updated lighting and smart locks help keep Middlesex among the safest counties in the country.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Middlesex County

via HealthByCounty

Middlesex outlives the nation

Residents live to 81.5 years on average, nearly three years longer than the U.S. average of 78.9 years. Just 11.2% report poor or fair health, well below the national rate of 15.3%, signaling strong population health outcomes compared to most American counties.

Among Massachusetts's healthiest

Middlesex County exceeds the state average life expectancy of 79.7 years by 1.8 years, ranking it in the top tier statewide. The county's 11.2% poor/fair health rate beats the state average, reflecting better-than-typical health status across the region.

Outpacing nearby counties

Middlesex's 81.5-year life expectancy tops Norfolk County (81.2 years) and significantly exceeds Plymouth County (78.8 years) and Worcester County (78.8 years). The county's uninsured rate of 2.4% ties Norfolk and Plymouth, among the lowest in the state.

Excellent access to primary care

With 125 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and 719 mental health providers per 100,000, Middlesex offers robust healthcare infrastructure. An uninsured rate of just 2.4%—below the state average of 3.0%—means most residents can access the care they need.

Protect your health coverage today

Even with strong healthcare access, maintaining coverage is essential for preventive care and unexpected medical costs. Visit healthcare.gov or your state marketplace to explore options and ensure you're protected.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Middlesex County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Massive Network of High-Performing Schools

Middlesex County supports a robust educational infrastructure with 382 public schools serving 214,852 students across 70 districts. This diverse system includes 225 elementary schools, 72 middle schools, and 62 high schools. It represents one of the largest and most comprehensive public education networks in New England.

Top-Tier Graduation Rates and Consistent Investment

The county boasts an impressive 92.1% graduation rate, significantly outpacing both the 87% national average and the 88.1% state average. With a composite school score of 67.9, the region outperforms the state median while maintaining an efficient per-pupil expenditure of $13,122. These metrics demonstrate a high return on investment for student achievement.

From Historic Lowell to Academic Newton

Lowell is the county's largest district, managing 27 schools and over 14,000 students, followed closely by Newton with 22 schools and 11,882 students. While the system is primarily traditional public schools, 12 charter schools offer specialized options for roughly 3% of the student population. High-enrollment hubs like Cambridge also play a critical role in the county's academic landscape.

Suburban Excellence and Large-Scale High Schools

Nearly 300 of the county's schools sit in suburban locales, though 68 urban and 16 rural campuses add to the geographic diversity. Schools average 562 students, ranging from small local elementary schools to the massive Lowell High with 3,167 students. This mix ensures that families can find everything from intimate learning environments to expansive, resource-rich campuses.

Secure a Future in a Leading School District

With academic scores and graduation rates that lead the state, Middlesex County remains a premier destination for education-focused homebuyers. Explore available properties near top-rated institutions like Lexington High or the innovative districts of Newton and Cambridge. Your next home can provide direct access to some of the best public education in the country.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Middlesex County

via RiskByCounty

Middlesex faces above-average disaster risk

Middlesex County scores 96.95 on composite risk, placing it in the relatively high category—well above the national average. This score reflects substantial exposure across multiple hazard types, from earthquakes to hurricanes.

Highest-risk county in Massachusetts

Middlesex ranks as the riskiest county in Massachusetts, with a composite score of 96.95 compared to the state average of 78.84. The county's 23% elevation above the state baseline signals concentrated vulnerability across most natural disaster categories.

Significantly riskier than surrounding counties

Middlesex outpaces its regional neighbors: Suffolk County scores 93.51, Worcester scores 93.54, and Norfolk scores 92.02. The county's flood risk (98.51) is the highest in its region, driven by extensive coastal and riverine exposure.

Floods and earthquakes top your hazard list

Flood risk dominates at 98.51—among the highest in the nation—while earthquake risk reaches 96.09. Tornado risk (90.11) and hurricane risk (95.45) round out Middlesex's multi-faceted threat profile, requiring comprehensive preparedness.

Prioritize flood and earthquake coverage now

Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood or earthquake damage; both require separate policies in Middlesex. Given your county's exceptional exposure, bundling flood and earthquake coverage with your home policy is essential protection against your area's primary risks.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Middlesex County

via WeatherByCounty

Middlesex County's Humid Continental Climate

Middlesex County maintains an average annual temperature of 49.7°F, placing it slightly below the national median. This humid continental climate is characterized by four distinct seasons and reliable precipitation throughout the year.

Matching the Massachusetts Average

The county's 49.7°F annual average is nearly identical to the Massachusetts state average of 49.5°F. It serves as a thermal middle ground for the state, avoiding the coastal extremes and the higher-elevation chills of the west.

Bridging the Coast and Central Hills

Middlesex is cooler than neighboring Suffolk County at 51.5°F but warmer than Worcester County to the west. Its 47.8 inches of annual precipitation closely mirrors the state average, keeping the landscape lush.

Warm Summers and Snowy Winters

July brings an average of 72.9°F with about 15 days of extreme heat reaching 90°F or higher. Conversely, winters are cold with a 29.1°F average and significant snowfall totaling 56.1 inches annually.

Preparing for Variable Weather

Residents should invest in heavy-duty snow removal equipment to manage the 56.1 inches of annual snowfall. High-efficiency HVAC systems are essential to handle both the 15 extreme heat days and the 26.6°F January lows.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Middlesex County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Foundations in Middlesex

Middlesex features a highly acidic soil profile with a pH of 3.17, significantly lower than the national median of 6.5. While specific taxonomic orders are unclassified in the record, the overall soil score of 64.5 indicates a high-quality foundation that beats the state average of 50.8.

A Light and Workable Texture

The soil is 39.0% sand, 21.5% silt, and a small 3.9% clay fraction. This composition creates a light texture that is easy to work and resists the heavy compaction common in clay-heavy regions.

Exceptional Organic Richness

Fertility is a major highlight here, as organic matter sits at 35.86%, well above the state average of 29.25%. With an available water capacity of 0.212 in/in, these soils hold moisture effectively to support intensive plant growth.

Managing the Flow

While specific drainage classes are not recorded, the sandy-silt mix typically indicates moderate to rapid drainage. Local growers should assess site-specific hydrologic groups to manage runoff effectively in this landscape.

Thriving in Zone 6b

Middlesex sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b, which is ideal for hardy perennials and cold-weather vegetables. The high organic content makes this a prime location to start a lush home garden today.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Middlesex County

via LawnByCounty

Overcoming Lawn Challenges in Middlesex County

Middlesex County earns a lawn difficulty score of 42.6, making it tougher to maintain grass here than the national median of 50.0. This Hardiness Zone 6b region faces more hurdles than the state average score of 56.8. Local homeowners must work harder to keep turf healthy in this environment.

Stable Rains Paired with Summer Heat

The county receives 47.8 inches of annual precipitation, which sits perfectly within the ideal range for grass growth. However, residents navigate 15 extreme heat days per year, significantly higher than the state average of nine days. These spikes require more frequent irrigation and careful mowing to avoid heat stress.

Correcting Highly Acidic Soil Foundations

Local soil pH averages a very acidic 3.17, far below the 6.0 to 7.0 range that lawns prefer. The soil composition is 39.0% sand, which helps with drainage but provides little natural nutrient retention. Extensive lime applications are necessary to balance the chemistry for successful growth.

Managing a Year of Abnormal Dryness

Middlesex County experienced 39 weeks of drought over the past year, with 100% of the area currently classified as abnormally dry. To preserve water, homeowners should irrigate deeply and infrequently during the early morning hours. Maintaining a higher grass height also helps shade the soil and retain moisture.

Start Your Middlesex Lawn This Spring

Tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass thrive in Zone 6b and provide excellent durability for Massachusetts yards. Aim to start your seeding or sodding projects shortly after the last spring frost on April 28. With proper soil prep, you can establish a resilient lawn before the summer heat arrives.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Middlesex County's county score?
Middlesex County, Massachusetts has a composite county score of 50.7 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Middlesex County rank among counties in Massachusetts?
Middlesex County ranks #5 among all counties in Massachusetts on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Middlesex County, Massachusetts?
The median annual property tax in Middlesex County is $7,240, with an effective tax rate of 1.05%. This earns Middlesex County a tax score of 34.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Middlesex County?
The median household income in Middlesex County, Massachusetts is $126,779 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Middlesex County earns an income score of 99.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Middlesex County, Massachusetts a good place to live?
Middlesex County scores 50.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #5 in Massachusetts. The best way to evaluate Middlesex County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Middlesex County with other counties side by side.

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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.