Essex County, Massachusetts

Income Data

+3% vs. Massachusetts average
$99,431
Median Household Income
$53,210
Per Capita Income

At a Glance

Median Household Income
$99,431
+3% vs. state avg
Per Capita Income
$53,210
+35% vs. national
Income-to-Housing Ratio
17.0%
income as % of home value
Rank in Massachusetts
#6 / 14
by median household income

How Essex County Compares

Essex County$99,431
Massachusetts Average$96,546
National Median$74,755

Detailed Income Statistics

$99,431
Median Household Income
$53,210
Per Capita Income
$584,000
Median Home Value
17.0%
Income-to-Housing Ratio

Data Story

About Household Income in Essex County, Massachusetts

Essex County earns well above U.S. average

Essex County's median household income of $99,431 runs 33% higher than the national median of $74,755, placing it among the nation's most prosperous regions. This strong performance reflects a regional economy anchored by biotech, finance, healthcare, and professional services concentrated in the Route 128 corridor.

Second-wealthiest county in Massachusetts

Essex County's $99,431 median exceeds the state average of $96,546 by 3%, ranking second statewide behind only Dukes County. The county's position reflects its role as home to Boston's northern suburbs and a major hub for high-wage professional and technical employment.

Leads greater Boston income rankings

Essex County's $99,431 median outpaces Barnstable County ($94,452) and significantly exceeds Bristol County ($84,198) and Hampshire County ($86,391). Only Martha's Vineyard-based Dukes County commands higher household incomes across Massachusetts.

High income offset by elevated housing costs

With a 20.2% rent-to-income ratio and median home values at $584,000, Essex County residents face substantial housing burdens despite strong earnings. The county's proximity to Boston and thriving job market drive property costs that consume a meaningful portion of household income.

Invest surplus earnings for future security

Essex County's high incomes provide real capacity for wealth-building beyond housing costs, making strategic investment critical. Diversifying into stocks, bonds, real estate, and retirement accounts can help households leverage their earnings advantage into lasting intergenerational wealth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the median household income in Essex County, Massachusetts?
The median household income in Essex County, Massachusetts is $99,431, according to U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates. This represents the midpoint of all household incomes in the county.
How much do people earn in Essex County?
The per capita income in Essex County is $53,210, which represents the average income per person across the entire county population. The median household income — which accounts for all earners in a household — is $99,431.
How does Essex County compare to the Massachusetts average?
Essex County's median household income of $99,431 is higher than the Massachusetts state average of $96,546. The per capita income is $53,210, compared to the state average of $55,038.
What is the per capita income in Essex County, Massachusetts?
The per capita income in Essex County, Massachusetts is $53,210, according to U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates. Per capita income is calculated by dividing total personal income by total population, providing an average income figure per resident.
Why is Essex County income higher than the Massachusetts average?
Essex County's median household income of $99,431 is higher than the Massachusetts average of $96,546. This difference of $2,885 can be attributed to factors such as local industry mix, proximity to major employment centers, educational attainment levels, and cost of living. Counties with higher incomes often have a greater concentration of professional and technical occupations.
How does Essex County rank for income in Massachusetts?
Essex County ranks #6 out of 14 counties in Massachusetts by median household income (1 = highest). With a median household income of $99,431 and per capita income of $53,210, it falls in the middle third of counties statewide.

Income Comparison Calculator

See how your household income compares in Essex County

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Your income is above the Essex County median

County median: $99,431 per year

vs. County Median

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vs. State Average

+3%

vs. National Median

+33%

vs. Essex County MedianAbout equal
vs. Massachusetts Average3% above
vs. National Median33% above

Income Adequacy

Monthly income covers median rent5.0x

Your monthly income ($8,286) vs. median rent ($1,673/mo). A ratio of 3.3x or higher means rent is under 30% of income.

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Data: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.