Renting · Section 8
Data from November 2026
Renting in Essex County, Massachusetts
Essex County has a HUD fair market rent of $2,367–$3,008 a month for 2 bedrooms (Fiscal year 2027). Renter households here pay a typical rent of $1,756 a month (Average 2020–2024). Paying the fair market rent without going over 30% of income takes $45.52–$57.85 an hour, full time.
Four numbers to start with
- Fair market rent, 2 bedrooms
- $2,367–$3,008
- a month, HUD, Fiscal year 2027
- HUD sets it by area: from the lowest to the highest of the 2 areas in Essex County.
- Typical rent
- $1,756
- a month, Census, Average 2020–2024
- About the same as in Massachusetts
- Wage needed
- $45.52–$57.85
- an hour, 2 bedrooms
- Or $94,680–$120,320 a year, to spend no more than 30% of income on rent.
- Rent-burdened households
- 57%
- spend 30% or more of income on rent
- 10% more than in Massachusetts
Only here
Renting in Essex County: what sets it apart
What this place has that others do not, from public data, most unusual first.
-
Nearby, in Bristol County, the typical rent is $1,245: 29% less than in Essex County ($1,756).
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (Average 2020–2024).
Fair market rent
What HUD sets for each size
Every year HUD (the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) publishes a Fair Market Rent (FMR) for each home size in Essex County. It is used to work out how much a Section 8 voucher covers. The table shows what you need to earn to pay it without spending more than 30% of income.
The fair market rent covers rent plus basic utilities, except the phone. HUD generally sets it at the 40th percentile: 4 in 10 standard-quality homes rented recently cost less. 24 CFR §888.113(a)
HUD splits this county into 2 areas with different fair market rents: for 2 bedrooms they run from $2,367 to $3,008. The table is for Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH HUD Metro FMR Area, the area where most people live; below you see every area with its towns. Includes basic utilities.
According to Zillow (ZORI), the typical asking rent in Essex County was $2,595 a month in September 2026: 2.5% more than 12 months ago. It is an index of market listings, not a HUD limit. Zillow data
| Size | Fair rent per month | Hourly wage | Income needed per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,440 | $46.92 | $97,600 |
| 1 bedroom | $2,518 | $48.42 | $100,720 |
| 2 bedrooms | $3,008 | $57.85 | $120,320 |
| 3 bedrooms | $3,584 | $68.92 | $143,360 |
| 4 bedrooms | $3,953 | $76.02 | $158,120 |
HUD area: Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH HUD Metro FMR Area. Source: HUD, Fiscal year 2027
Fair market rent by HUD area in Essex County
HUD splits this county into 2 areas, each with its own fair market rent. Find your town in its area's list; the housing agency tells you which one it uses for your voucher.
| HUD area | Studio | 1 bd | 2 bd | 3 bd | 4 bd | Hourly wage, 2 bd |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH HUD Metro FMR Area The area where most people live 24 towns in this areaAmesbury city, Beverly city, Danvers town, Essex town, Gloucester city, Hamilton town, Ipswich town, Lynn city, Lynnfield town, Manchester-by-the-Sea town, Marblehead town, Middleton town, Nahant town, Newbury town, Newburyport city, Peabody city, Rockport town, Rowley town, Salem city, Salisbury town, Saugus town, Swampscott town, Topsfield town, Wenham town | $2,440 | $2,518 | $3,008 | $3,584 | $3,953 | $57.85 |
Lawrence, MA-NH HUD Metro FMR Area 10 towns in this areaAndover town, Boxford town, Georgetown town, Groveland town, Haverhill city, Lawrence city, Merrimac town, Methuen city, North Andover town, West Newbury town | $1,677 | $1,809 | $2,367 | $2,820 | $3,111 | $45.52 |
HUD fair market rent by area and size, per month, Fiscal year 2027. The wage is what full-time work must pay to rent 2 bedrooms without spending more than 30% of income. Source: HUD, Fiscal year 2027 Source: Fair Market Rents (HUD) Fiscal year 2027 Fair Market Rents (HUD) (external site)
By ZIP code
The fair market rent for your ZIP code
HUD also publishes fair market rents by ZIP code (Small Area FMRs) for 51 ZIP codes in Essex County (Fiscal year 2027). Type yours to see it.
For 2 bedrooms they run from $2,080 in 01834 to $3,420 in 01940.
Where HUD designates these areas, or where the housing agency chooses to use them, the voucher is figured on the ZIP code's rent instead of the county's. Ask your agency which one it uses. 24 CFR §982.503(a)(1)
| 01810 | Lawrence, MA-NH | $2,170 | $2,350 | $3,070 | $3,660 | $4,030 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01810 | Lowell, MA | $2,170 | $2,350 | $3,070 | $3,660 | $4,030 |
| 01830 | Lawrence, MA-NH | $1,640 | $1,770 | $2,320 | $2,760 | $3,050 |
| 01832 | Lawrence, MA-NH | $1,630 | $1,760 | $2,300 | $2,740 | $3,020 |
| 01833 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,300 | $3,010 | $3,590 | $3,960 |
| 01833 | Lawrence, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,300 | $3,010 | $3,590 | $3,960 |
| 01834 | Lawrence, MA-NH | $1,470 | $1,590 | $2,080 | $2,480 | $2,730 |
| 01835 | Lawrence, MA-NH | $1,710 | $1,840 | $2,410 | $2,870 | $3,170 |
| 01840 | Lawrence, MA-NH | $1,500 | $1,620 | $2,120 | $2,530 | $2,790 |
| 01841 | Lawrence, MA-NH | $1,540 | $1,660 | $2,170 | $2,590 | $2,850 |
| 01843 | Lawrence, MA-NH | $1,760 | $1,900 | $2,490 | $2,970 | $3,270 |
| 01844 | Lawrence, MA-NH | $1,740 | $1,870 | $2,450 | $2,920 | $3,220 |
| 01844 | Lowell, MA | $1,740 | $1,870 | $2,450 | $2,920 | $3,220 |
| 01845 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,300 | $3,010 | $3,590 | $3,960 |
| 01845 | Lawrence, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,300 | $3,010 | $3,590 | $3,960 |
| 01860 | Lawrence, MA-NH | $1,840 | $1,950 | $2,310 | $2,780 | $3,060 |
| 01901 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,230 | $2,650 | $3,180 | $3,510 |
| 01902 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,230 | $2,650 | $3,180 | $3,510 |
| 01904 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,230 | $2,650 | $3,180 | $3,510 |
| 01905 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,230 | $2,650 | $3,180 | $3,510 |
| 01906 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,440 | $2,520 | $3,010 | $3,590 | $3,960 |
| 01907 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,500 | $2,580 | $3,080 | $3,670 | $4,050 |
| 01908 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,230 | $2,650 | $3,180 | $3,510 |
| 01913 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,230 | $2,650 | $3,180 | $3,510 |
| 01913 | Lawrence, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,230 | $2,650 | $3,180 | $3,510 |
| 01915 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,270 | $2,340 | $2,800 | $3,340 | $3,680 |
| 01921 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,230 | $2,650 | $3,180 | $3,510 |
| 01921 | Lawrence, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,230 | $2,650 | $3,180 | $3,510 |
| 01922 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,230 | $2,650 | $3,180 | $3,510 |
| 01922 | Lawrence, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,230 | $2,650 | $3,180 | $3,510 |
| 01923 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,220 | $2,290 | $2,740 | $3,260 | $3,600 |
| 01929 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,230 | $2,650 | $3,180 | $3,510 |
| 01930 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,230 | $2,650 | $3,180 | $3,510 |
| 01937 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,220 | $2,290 | $2,740 | $3,260 | $3,600 |
| 01938 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,230 | $2,650 | $3,180 | $3,510 |
| 01940 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,770 | $2,860 | $3,420 | $4,070 | $4,490 |
| 01944 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,160 | $2,230 | $2,660 | $3,180 | $3,510 |
| 01945 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,230 | $2,650 | $3,180 | $3,510 |
| 01949 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,230 | $2,650 | $3,180 | $3,510 |
| 01950 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,230 | $2,650 | $3,180 | $3,510 |
| 01951 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,220 | $2,290 | $2,740 | $3,260 | $3,600 |
| 01952 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,150 | $2,230 | $2,650 | $3,180 | $3,510 |
| 01960 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,230 | $2,650 | $3,180 | $3,510 |
| 01965 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,250 | $2,320 | $2,770 | $3,310 | $3,650 |
| 01966 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,230 | $2,650 | $3,180 | $3,510 |
| 01969 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,230 | $2,650 | $3,180 | $3,510 |
| 01970 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,230 | $2,650 | $3,180 | $3,510 |
| 01982 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,230 | $2,650 | $3,180 | $3,510 |
| 01983 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,230 | $2,650 | $3,180 | $3,510 |
| 01984 | Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH | $2,130 | $2,230 | $2,650 | $3,180 | $3,510 |
| 01985 | Lawrence, MA-NH | $1,940 | $2,110 | $2,770 | $3,320 | $3,660 |
- 01810 · Lawrence, MA-NH $3,070$3,660
- 01810 · Lowell, MA $3,070$3,660
- 01830 · Lawrence, MA-NH $2,320$2,760
- 01832 · Lawrence, MA-NH $2,300$2,740
- 01833 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $3,010$3,590
- 01833 · Lawrence, MA-NH $3,010$3,590
- 01834 · Lawrence, MA-NH $2,080$2,480
- 01835 · Lawrence, MA-NH $2,410$2,870
- 01840 · Lawrence, MA-NH $2,120$2,530
- 01841 · Lawrence, MA-NH $2,170$2,590
- 01843 · Lawrence, MA-NH $2,490$2,970
- 01844 · Lawrence, MA-NH $2,450$2,920
- 01844 · Lowell, MA $2,450$2,920
- 01845 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $3,010$3,590
- 01845 · Lawrence, MA-NH $3,010$3,590
- 01860 · Lawrence, MA-NH $2,310$2,780
- 01901 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,650$3,180
- 01902 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,650$3,180
- 01904 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,650$3,180
- 01905 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,650$3,180
- 01906 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $3,010$3,590
- 01907 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $3,080$3,670
- 01908 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,650$3,180
- 01913 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,650$3,180
- 01913 · Lawrence, MA-NH $2,650$3,180
- 01915 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,800$3,340
- 01921 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,650$3,180
- 01921 · Lawrence, MA-NH $2,650$3,180
- 01922 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,650$3,180
- 01922 · Lawrence, MA-NH $2,650$3,180
- 01923 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,740$3,260
- 01929 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,650$3,180
- 01930 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,650$3,180
- 01937 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,740$3,260
- 01938 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,650$3,180
- 01940 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $3,420$4,070
- 01944 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,660$3,180
- 01945 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,650$3,180
- 01949 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,650$3,180
- 01950 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,650$3,180
- 01951 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,740$3,260
- 01952 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,650$3,180
- 01960 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,650$3,180
- 01965 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,770$3,310
- 01966 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,650$3,180
- 01969 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,650$3,180
- 01970 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,650$3,180
- 01982 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,650$3,180
- 01983 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,650$3,180
- 01984 · Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH $2,650$3,180
- 01985 · Lawrence, MA-NH $2,770$3,320
Source: Small Area Fair Market Rents (HUD) Fiscal year 2027 Small Area Fair Market Rents (HUD) (external site)
Rent burden
How many households spend too much
HUD counts rent as a burden when it reaches 30% of income or more. In Essex County, 57% of renter households are in that position; in Massachusetts, 52%, and nationwide, 51% (Average 2020–2024, Census).
Paying too much rent leaves little for food, transportation and savings. If that is you, the agencies below can guide you for free.
57%
of renter households spend 30% or more of their income on rent.
114,309 households rent in Essex County
- Spend half or more of their income 30%
- Spend 30% or more, but less than half 27%
- Spend less than 30% 43%
Compared with the state and the country
- Essex 57%
- Massachusetts 52%
- United States 51%
Low-income apartments
Low-income apartments in Essex County
HUD lists 201 properties with homes for low-income households in Essex County: tax-credit apartments (LIHTC), HUD-assisted buildings and public housing. They run from the most low-income homes to the fewest.
- with tax credits (LIHTC)
- 95
- HUD-assisted
- 92
- public housing
- 14
16,240 homes in all; 12,963 of them low-income, according to HUD.
- Lawrence Public housing 47 Auburn St, Lawrence 01841 333 low-income homes · Run by Lawrence Housing Authority · Average payment: $413 a month · Average wait: 80 months · Homes at several sites · (978) 685-3811
- Neptune Towers HUD-assisted 130 Neptune Blvd, Lynn 01905 334 homes, 332 low-income · For families
- Fairweather Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 40R Highland Ave, Salem 321 homes, 306 low-income · Studio: 259 · 1 bd: 62
- Mi Residential Community I HUD-assisted 189 Maple St, Lawrence 01841 299 low-income homes · For older adults
- Merrimack Courts Public housing 651 Essex St, Lawrence 01841 292 homes, 290 low-income · Run by Lawrence Housing Authority · Average payment: $606 a month · Average wait: 13 months · (978) 685-3811
- Curwin Circle Public housing 111 Curwin Cir, Lynn 01905 283 homes, 279 low-income · Run by Lynn Housing Authority · Average payment: $618 a month · Average wait: 74 months · (781) 581-8600
- Saugus Commons Apts HUD-assisted 66 Newhall Ave, Saugus 01906 266 homes, 265 low-income · For older adults
- Salem Heights Preservation Assoc Tax credit (LIHTC) 12 Pope St, Salem 283 homes, 255 low-income · 1 bd: 97 · 2 bd: 186
- Beacon Court Public housing 100 Market St, Lawrence 01843 254 homes, 253 low-income · Run by Lawrence Housing Authority · Average payment: $745 a month · Average wait: 9 months · (978) 685-3811
- Loring Towers Tax credit (LIHTC) 1000 Loring Ave, Salem 250 low-income homes · 1 bd: 104 · 2 bd: 146
- Apple Village HUD-assisted 502 Manor Rd, Beverly 01915 232 low-income homes · For families · (978) 927-2606
- Woodridge Homes HUD-assisted 10 Woodridge Dr, North Andover 01845 230 low-income homes · For families
- Fairweather Apartments HUD-assisted 40R Highland Ave, Salem 01970 321 homes, 220 low-income · For older adults
- Harbor Loft HUD-assisted 678 Washington St, Lynn 01901 358 homes, 210 low-income · For older adults · (781) 593-5700
- Ocean Shores Apartments HUD-assisted 50 Lynnway, Lynn 01902 202 low-income homes · For older adults · (781) 598-4343
- Essex Towers HUD-assisted 45 Broadway Sreet, Lawrence 01840 198 low-income homes · For older adults
- Presidential Gardens Apts. HUD-assisted 140 Evergreen Dr, Haverhill 01835 200 homes, 185 low-income · For families
- Kings Beach Towers HUD-assisted 130 Eastern Ave, Lynn 01902 183 low-income homes · For older adults
- Hadley West Apts HUD-assisted 515 Hadley West Dr, Haverhill 01832 182 low-income homes · For families
- Leisure Tower HUD-assisted 10 Farrar St, Lynn 01902 181 homes, 180 low-income · For older adults
- Leisure Tower Tax credit (LIHTC) 10 Farrar St, Lynn 180 low-income homes · Studio: 26 · 1 bd: 154 · In service since 2000
- Wall Plaza Public housing 18 Bond St, Lynn 01902 176 low-income homes · Run by Lynn Housing Authority · Average payment: $515 a month · Average wait: 43 months · Homes at several sites · (781) 581-8600
- Elm Street Public housing 353 Elm St, Lawrence 01841 177 homes, 174 low-income · Run by Lawrence Housing Authority · Average payment: $409 a month · Average wait: 79 months · (978) 685-3811
- Tannery II HUD-assisted 12 Crowninshield St, Peabody 01960 172 low-income homes · For families
- Garden City Towers Public housing 20 Sohier Rd, Beverly 01915 168 low-income homes · Run by Beverly Housing Authority · Average payment: $645 a month · Average wait: 17 months · (978) 922-3100
- Andover Commons HUD-assisted 30 Railroad St, Andover 01810 167 low-income homes · For older adults · (978) 470-2611
- Park Gardens HUD-assisted 12 Burnham Rd, Methuen 01844 160 low-income homes · For older adults · (978) 681-0952
- ST Alfios Villa HUD-assisted 35 Common St, Lawrence 01840 155 homes, 154 low-income · For older adults
- Valebrook Apartments HUD-assisted 7A Summer St, Lawrence 01840 151 homes, 150 low-income · For older adults
- Louis Barrett House Tax credit (LIHTC) 147 Washington St, Lynn 145 low-income homes · In service since 1992
- Silsbee Tower HUD-assisted 57 Silsbee ST, Lynn 01901 145 low-income homes · For older adults
- Peabody House HUD-assisted 18 Walnut St, Peabody 01960 140 homes, 139 low-income · For older adults
- Arlington Park HUD-assisted 32 A-32 D Highland, Lawrence 01841 130 low-income homes · For older adults
- Merrivista HUD-assisted 100 Water St, Haverhill 01830 148 homes, 126 low-income · For older adults
- Heritage Common Tax credit (LIHTC) 43 Camella Teoli Way, Lawrence 140 homes, 126 low-income · 1 bd: 19 · 2 bd: 86 · 3 bd: 23 · 4 bd: 12 · In service since 2010
- Cobbet Hill Tax credit (LIHTC) 498 Essex St, Lynn 117 low-income homes · In service since 1988
- Judson House HUD-assisted 40 Welcome St, Haverhill 01830 117 homes, 116 low-income · For older adults
- Cobbet Hill Apartments HUD-assisted 498 Essex St, Lynn 01902 116 low-income homes · For families
- Turtle Creek HUD-assisted 401 Essex St, Beverly 01915 110 homes, 109 low-income · For older adults
- Pequot Highlands Tax credit (LIHTC) 12 1st St, Salem 250 homes, 106 low-income · Studio: 1 · 1 bd: 42 · 2 bd: 148 · 3 bd: 59 · In service since 1997
- Morkeski Meadows Public housing 1 McCabe Ct, North Andover 01845 105 low-income homes · Run by North Andover Housing Authority · Average payment: $544 a month · Average wait: 22 months · (978) 682-3932
- Quaker Meadows HUD-assisted 82 Green St, Lynn 01902 104 homes, 103 low-income · For families
- Heritage House HUD-assisted 32 Low St, Newburyport 01950 101 homes, 100 low-income · For older adults
- Saugus Ha Public housing 19 Talbot St, Saugus 01906 100 low-income homes · Run by Saugus Housing Authority · Average payment: $695 a month · Average wait: 12 months · (781) 233-2116
- Parkside Apts West HUD-assisted 372 Elm St, Lawrence 01841 146 homes, 98 low-income · For families
- ST Marys Plaza HUD-assisted 30 Pleasant St, Lynn 01902 99 homes, 98 low-income · For older adults
- James Steam Mill HUD-assisted 1 Charles St, Newburyport 01950 98 low-income homes · For older adults
- Diamond Spring Gardens HUD-assisted 1 Beacon Ave, Lawrence 01843 97 homes, 96 low-income · For older adults
- Phoenix Row Apartments HUD-assisted 22 Phoenix Row, Haverhill 01832 97 homes, 96 low-income · For older adults · (978) 372-7597
- Agawam Village / Ipswich H.a. HUD-assisted 2 Agawam Vlg, Ipswich 01938 94 low-income homes · For families
- Marian Gardens HUD-assisted 18 Anderson Ln, Lynn 01902 94 homes, 93 low-income · For families
- Rita Hall Apartments HUD-assisted 490 Hampshire St, Lawrence 01841 90 low-income homes · For older adults
- Willowood Gardens Public housing 1 Willowood Rd, Gloucester 01930 89 low-income homes · Run by Gloucester Housing Authority · Average payment: $1,142 a month · Average wait: 7 months · (978) 281-4770
- 98 Essex Street Tax credit (LIHTC) 98 Essex St, Haverhill 88 low-income homes · 1 bd: 28 · 2 bd: 38 · 3 bd: 19 · 4 bd: 3 · In service since 2019 · For families
- Peabody HUD-assisted 75 Central St, Peabody 01960 78 low-income homes · For older adults
- Highland Manor Public housing 14 Stone St, Danvers 01923 76 low-income homes · Run by Danvers Housing Authority · (978) 777-0909
- Duck Mill Tax credit (LIHTC) 4 Union St, Lawrence 73 low-income homes · 1 bd: 7 · 2 bd: 37 · 3 bd: 29 · In service since 2016 · For families
- Lawrence YMCA Sro Tax credit (LIHTC) 40 Lawrence St, Lawrence 73 low-income homes · Studio: 73 · In service since 1994
- Loft Five 50 Tax credit (LIHTC) 550 Broadway, Lawrence 75 homes, 72 low-income · 1 bd: 17 · 2 bd: 58 · In service since 2012 · For people with disabilities, families, people experiencing homelessness
- Malden Mills Phase I Tax credit (LIHTC) 550 Broadway, Lawrence 75 homes, 72 low-income · 1 bd: 17 · 2 bd: 58 · In service since 2012 · For families
- Tenney Place Phase 1 Tax credit (LIHTC) 101 Lowell Ave, Haverhill 72 low-income homes · 1 bd: 14 · 2 bd: 56 · 3 bd: 2 · In service since 2016 · For families
- Rockmere Gardens HUD-assisted 26 Commercial St, Lynn 01905 72 homes, 71 low-income · For families
- Rolfe House HUD-assisted 7 Willow St, Lynn 01901 70 low-income homes · For older adults
- Turtle Woods HUD-assisted 399 Essex St, Beverly 01915 67 low-income homes · For older adults
- Chestnut Garden Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 301 Essex St, Lynn 65 low-income homes · 1 bd: 55 · 2 bd: 10
- Chestnut Gardens Apts HUD-assisted 301 Essex St, Lynn 01902 65 low-income homes · For older adults
- Amesbury Gardens HUD-assisted 206 Amesbury St, Lawrence 01841 160 homes, 64 low-income · For families · (978) 685-1491
- Hamel Mill Lofts Tax credit (LIHTC) 109 Essex St, Haverhill 305 homes, 63 low-income · 1 bd: 194 · 2 bd: 111 · In service since 2009 · For families
- Malden Mills Phase II Tax credit (LIHTC) 520, 540, 542 + 600 Broadway (bldgs 24, 28, 27 + 29r), Lawrence 62 low-income homes · Studio: 4 · 1 bd: 15 · 3 bd: 6 · In service since 2015 · For families
- Cordovan at Haverhill Station Tax credit (LIHTC) 45 Locust St, Haverhill 146 homes, 61 low-income · 1 bd: 104 · 2 bd: 42 · In service since 2007 · For families
- Brown School Residences Tax credit (LIHTC) 200 Lynn St, Peabody 61 low-income homes · 1 bd: 35 · 2 bd: 26 · In service since 2007 · For older adults
- Lafayette Housing Tax credit (LIHTC) 102 Lafayette St, Salem 61 low-income homes · 1 bd: 10 · 2 bd: 9 · 3 bd: 37 · 4 bd: 5
- Salem Point Rental Tax credit (LIHTC) 1 Prince Street Pl, Salem 61 low-income homes · 1 bd: 8 · 2 bd: 9 · 3 bd: 39 · 4 bd: 5 · In service since 2005 · For families
- Point Coop Tax credit (LIHTC) 64 Harbor St, Salem 77 homes, 60 low-income · In service since 1992
- Essex Gardens HUD-assisted 103 Broad St, Lynn 01902 64 homes, 60 low-income · For older adults · (781) 595-3210
- Merrimack Valley Apts HUD-assisted 20 Calumet Rd, Methuen 01844 60 low-income homes · For older adults
- Union Crossing Tax credit (LIHTC) 50 Island St, Lawrence 60 low-income homes · 1 bd: 3 · 2 bd: 30 · 3 bd: 27 · In service since 2011 · For families
- Groveland Ha Public housing 10 River Pines Dr, Groveland 01834 58 low-income homes · Run by Groveland Housing Authority · Average payment: $556 a month · Average wait: 31 months · (978) 374-0370
- Riverview Commons Tax credit (LIHTC) 600 Bulfinch Dr, Andover 220 homes, 55 low-income · In service since 1989
- Winter Street School Tax credit (LIHTC) 165 Winter St, Haverhill 55 low-income homes · 1 bd: 32 · 2 bd: 23 · In service since 2015 · For families
- Ahepa 39 Apartments HUD-assisted 40 Buttonwoods Ave, Haverhill 01830 54 low-income homes · For older adults
- Harbor Place at Merrimack Tax credit (LIHTC) 44 Merrimack St, Haverhill 50 low-income homes · 1 bd: 15 · 2 bd: 30 · 3 bd: 5 · In service since 2016 · For families
- AHEPA/Penelope 120 Apartments HUD-assisted 98 Central St, Peabody 01960 48 low-income homes · For older adults
- Conifer Hill Commons I Tax credit (LIHTC) 121 Conifer Hill Dr, Danvers 48 low-income homes · 1 bd: 12 · 2 bd: 30 · 3 bd: 6 · In service since 2014 · For families
- Powder House Village Tax credit (LIHTC) 108 County Rd, Ipswich 48 low-income homes · 1 bd: 12 · 2 bd: 30 · 3 bd: 6 · In service since 2011 · For people with disabilities, families, people experiencing homelessness
- Blakeley Building Tax credit (LIHTC) 467 Essex St, Lawrence 46 low-income homes · 1 bd: 10 · 2 bd: 36 · In service since 2008 · For people with disabilities, families, people experiencing homelessness
- The Blakeley Tax credit (LIHTC) 473 Essex St, Lawrence 46 low-income homes · 1 bd: 10 · 2 bd: 36
- Cabot Affordable Housing Tax credit (LIHTC) 245 Cabot St, Beverly 45 homes, 44 low-income · Studio: 42 · 1 bd: 3
- Nevins Manor HUD-assisted 10 Ingalls Ct, Methuen 01844 44 low-income homes · For older adults
- Olympia Square HUD-assisted 429 Washington St, Lynn 01901 44 low-income homes · For older adults · (781) 581-2051
- Sacred Heart Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 23 Hawley St, Lawrence 44 low-income homes · 1 bd: 34 · 2 bd: 10 · In service since 2010 · For older adults, people experiencing homelessness
- Willow Apartments HUD-assisted 19 Willow St, Lynn 01901 44 homes, 43 low-income · For older adults
- Willow Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 19 Willow St, Lynn 44 homes, 43 low-income · Studio: 5 · 1 bd: 27 · 2 bd: 12 · In service since 2006 · For older adults
- Cabot Street Homes Tax credit (LIHTC) 319 Cabot St, Beverly 43 low-income homes · Studio: 43 · In service since 2011 · For people with disabilities, families, people experiencing homelessness
- Pond View Village Tax credit (LIHTC) 23 Lepage Ln, Gloucester 43 low-income homes · 1 bd: 10 · 2 bd: 24 · 3 bd: 8 · 4 bd: 1 · In service since 2006 · For families
- Brookside Estates Tax credit (LIHTC) 100 Brookside Dr, Andover 168 homes, 42 low-income · In service since 1989
- 117 Lafayette ST Tax credit (LIHTC) 117 Lafayette St, Salem 63 homes, 42 low-income · In service since 1988
- Methuen Family HSNG-Jade Street Public housing 25 Jade St, Methuen 01844 42 low-income homes · Run by Methuen Housing Authority · Average payment: $891 a month · Average wait: 50 months · (978) 682-8607
- Residences at Salisbury Tax credit (LIHTC) 29 Elm St, Salisbury 42 low-income homes · Studio: 2 · 1 bd: 11 · 2 bd: 24 · 3 bd: 5 · In service since 2019 · For families
- Stevens Corner Tax credit (LIHTC) 75 Park St, North Andover 42 low-income homes · 1 bd: 5 · 2 bd: 32 · 3 bd: 5 · In service since 2011 · For families
- Millfalls Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 51 Osgood St, Methuen 97 homes, 40 low-income · 1 bd: 10 · 2 bd: 82 · 3 bd: 5 · In service since 2000
- Lebanese Comm HSG for Elderly HUD-assisted 222 Pelham St, Methuen 01844 40 low-income homes · For older adults
- Federal Elderly Public Housing Public housing 5 Barton Sq, Salem 01970 39 low-income homes · Run by Salem Housing Authority · Homes at several sites · (978) 744-4432
- Fabens Building HUD-assisted 312 Union St, Lynn 01901 37 low-income homes · For older adults
- Museum Square Tax credit (LIHTC) 2 Jackson St, Lawrence 176 homes, 35 low-income · In service since 1988
- Pond View III Tax credit (LIHTC) 147 Essex Ave, Gloucester 34 low-income homes · 1 bd: 6 · 2 bd: 21 · 3 bd: 7 · In service since 2011 · For people with disabilities, families, people experiencing homelessness
- Hayes Building Phase I Tax credit (LIHTC) 14 Granite St, Haverhill 33 low-income homes · 1 bd: 7 · 2 bd: 26 · In service since 2010 · For people with disabilities, families, people experiencing homelessness
- ST. Theresa's House HUD-assisted 32 City Hall Sq, Lynn 01901 32 low-income homes · For older adults
- Cedars Home II HUD-assisted 222 Pelham St, Methuen 01844 31 low-income homes · For older adults · (978) 681-8845
- Rockport School Tax credit (LIHTC) 4 Broadway, Rockport 31 low-income homes · 1 bd: 31 · In service since 1997
- Harborlight House Tax credit (LIHTC) 1 Monument Sq, Beverly 35 homes, 30 low-income · Studio: 33 · 1 bd: 2 · In service since 1999
- Auburn Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 140 White St, Haverhill 30 low-income homes · 1 bd: 7 · 2 bd: 11 · 3 bd: 12 · In service since 2003 · For families
- Cable Gardens Tax credit (LIHTC) 126 County Rd, Ipswich 70 homes, 28 low-income
- Brickyard Village Tax credit (LIHTC) 151719 June LN, Lynn 28 low-income homes · 2 bd: 21 · 3 bd: 7
- Warren Shepard Street Tax credit (LIHTC) 9 Warren St, Lynn 28 low-income homes · 2 bd: 21 · 3 bd: 7 · In service since 2004 · For families
- Bay Berry Point Tax credit (LIHTC) 60 Beach Rd, Salisbury 30 homes, 27 low-income · In service since 1992
- Bayberry Point Tax credit (LIHTC) 10 Sacks Way, Salisbury 30 homes, 27 low-income · 1 bd: 30
- Haverhill Vets Tax credit (LIHTC) 17 Tremont St, Haverhill 27 low-income homes · Studio: 18 · 1 bd: 6 · 2 bd: 1 · 3 bd: 2 · In service since 2015
- Marland Place Tax credit (LIHTC) 15 Stevens St, Andover 129 homes, 26 low-income · Studio: 76 · 1 bd: 44 · 2 bd: 9 · In service since 1996
- Boston Street Tax credit (LIHTC) 43 Boston St, Salem 26 low-income homes · Studio: 26 · In service since 2020 · For families
- Boston Street Crossing Tax credit (LIHTC) 43 Boston St, Salem 26 low-income homes · Studio: 26 · In service since 2018 · For families
- Wilson Gardens HUD-assisted 199 Lewis St, Lynn 01902 26 low-income homes · For older adults
- ST Jean Baptiste Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 12 Lyman St, Lynn 24 low-income homes · 2 bd: 24 · In service since 2005 · For families
- Thompson House HUD-assisted 154 Water St, Danvers 01923 24 low-income homes · For people with disabilities
- YWCA Fina House Tax credit (LIHTC) 203 Haverhill St, Lawrence 24 low-income homes · Studio: 8 · 1 bd: 3 · 2 bd: 13 · In service since 2005 · For families, people experiencing homelessness
- Harbor Lafayette Tax credit (LIHTC) 15 Harbor St, Salem 27 homes, 22 low-income · 1 bd: 22 · 2 bd: 5 · In service since 2019 · For families
- Harbor Lafayette Tax credit (LIHTC) 15 Harbor St, Salem 27 homes, 22 low-income · 1 bd: 22 · 2 bd: 5 · In service since 2020 · For families
- Project Hope Tax credit (LIHTC) 30 Myrtle Ct, Lawrence 20 low-income homes · 1 bd: 2 · 2 bd: 16 · 3 bd: 2 · In service since 2007 · For families, people experiencing homelessness
- Sachem Manor HUD-assisted 91 Denver St, Saugus 01906 20 low-income homes · For older adults
- Conant Village Tax credit (LIHTC) 238 Conant St, Danvers 60 homes, 18 low-income · 2 bd: 50 · 3 bd: 10 · In service since 2004 · For families
- 108 Newbury ST Tax credit (LIHTC) 108 Newbury St, Lawrence 18 low-income homes · 2 bd: 8 · 3 bd: 10 · In service since 2014 · For families
- Malden Mills II Tax credit (LIHTC) 600 Broadway, Lawrence 18 low-income homes · 1 bd: 3 · 2 bd: 9 · 3 bd: 6 · In service since 2015 · For families
- Twelve Summer Street Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 12 Summer St, Manchester 21 homes, 17 low-income · Studio: 7 · 2 bd: 14
- Reviviendo Family Housing Tax credit (LIHTC) 41 Berkeley St, Lawrence 17 low-income homes · 2 bd: 7 · 3 bd: 8 · 4 bd: 2 · In service since 2003 · For families
- Heritage at Danvers Tax credit (LIHTC) 21 Summer St, Danvers 80 homes, 16 low-income · Studio: 46 · 1 bd: 30 · 2 bd: 4 · In service since 1997
- Putnam Farm at Danvers Tax credit (LIHTC) 9 Summer St, Danvers 80 homes, 16 low-income · Studio: 43 · 1 bd: 33 · 2 bd: 4
- Saunders School Tax credit (LIHTC) 243 S Broadway, Lawrence 16 low-income homes · 2 bd: 16 · In service since 2011 · For people with disabilities, families, people experiencing homelessness
- Lmi Orange Wheeler 3 Tax credit (LIHTC) 335 E Haverhill St, Lawrence 13 low-income homes · 1 bd: 5 · 2 bd: 3 · 3 bd: 4 · 4 bd: 1
- Orange Wheeler 2 Tax credit (LIHTC) 335 Haverhill St, Lawrence 13 low-income homes · 1 bd: 3 · 2 bd: 8 · 3 bd: 1 · 4 bd: 1 · In service since 2002
- Fidelity House HUD-assisted 598 Haverhill St, Lawrence 01841 14 homes, 12 low-income · For people with disabilities
- Lmi Phillips Tenney Tax credit (LIHTC) 2 Phillips St, Methuen 12 low-income homes · 2 bd: 6 · 3 bd: 6 · In service since 2002
- Lmii Orange Wheeler 1 Tax credit (LIHTC) 126 Franklin St, Lawrence 12 low-income homes · 1 bd: 1 · 2 bd: 4 · 3 bd: 7
- Summer Street Tax credit (LIHTC) 24 Summer St, Lawrence 12 low-income homes · In service since 1992
- Garden Street Apartments HUD-assisted 186 Garden St, Lawrence 01840 10 low-income homes · For people with disabilities
- Lmi Orange Wheeler 2 Tax credit (LIHTC) 333 Haverhill St, Lawrence 10 low-income homes · 1 bd: 4 · 3 bd: 6
- Lmii Orange Wheeler 4 Tax credit (LIHTC) 356 Haverhill St, Lawrence 10 low-income homes · 1 bd: 2 · 2 bd: 5 · 3 bd: 2 · 4 bd: 1
- Macy Terrace / Amesbury H.a. HUD-assisted 28 Macy Ter, Amesbury 01913 10 low-income homes · For families
- Middleton House HUD-assisted 59 N Main St, Middleton 01949 10 low-income homes · For people with disabilities
- Orange Wheeler 3 Tax credit (LIHTC) 335 Haverhill St, Lawrence 10 low-income homes · 1 bd: 4 · 3 bd: 6 · In service since 2002
- Bridgewell Inc - Lynn HUD-assisted 28 Lewis St, Lynn 01902 10 homes, 9 low-income · For people with disabilities · (339) 883-2107
- H.e.s. House HUD-assisted 403 Essex St, Salem 01970 9 low-income homes · For people with disabilities
- Whittier School Apts HUD-assisted 20 Prospect St, Amesbury 01913 9 homes, 8 low-income · For people with disabilities
- Creative Living Andover HUD-assisted 368 S Main St, Andover 01810 8 low-income homes · For people with disabilities
- Westland Terrace Residence HUD-assisted 20 Westland Ter, Haverhill 01830 8 low-income homes · For families
- Supported Community Living HUD-assisted 2 Rogers Rd, Danvers 01923 7 low-income homes · For people with disabilities
- River Rock Tax credit (LIHTC) 70 River St, Haverhill 6 low-income homes · In service since 1987
- Tannery Limited HUD-assisted 18 Crowninshield St, Peabody 01960 284 homes, 5 low-income · (978) 717-3500
- Cabot Housing HUD-assisted 245 Cabot St, Beverly 01915 62 homes, 5 low-income · (978) 564-3099
- Bridgewell - Danvers HUD-assisted 49 Coolidge Rd, Danvers 01923 5 low-income homes · For people with disabilities
- Bridgewell Merrimac Residence HUD-assisted 40 Church St, Merrimac 01860 5 low-income homes · For people with disabilities
- Career Resources Haverhill HUD-assisted Lot 9A Shattuck Street, Haverhill 01830 5 low-income homes · For people with disabilities
- Homes of Care III HUD-assisted 2 Anne St, Groveland 01834 5 low-income homes · For people with disabilities
- Merrimac Residence HUD-assisted 13 Locust St, Merrimac 01860 5 low-income homes · For people with disabilities
- Gloucester Housing Inc HUD-assisted 279 Washington St, Gloucester 01930 5 homes, 4 low-income · For people with disabilities · (978) 352-4977
- Amesbury Residence HUD-assisted 6 Rowell St, Amesbury 01913 4 low-income homes · For people with disabilities
- Buena Vista HUD-assisted 31 Buena Vista Ave, Salem 01970 4 low-income homes · For people with disabilities
- Davis Road HUD-assisted 60 Davis Rd, Methuen 01844 4 low-income homes · For people with disabilities · (978) 688-0481
- Grant Road HUD-assisted 4 Grant Rd, Lawrence 01843 4 low-income homes · For people with disabilities
- Homes of Care II HUD-assisted 126 Lovejoy Rd, Andover 01810 4 low-income homes · For people with disabilities
- Mark Road Residence HUD-assisted 8 Mark Rd, Beverly 01915 4 low-income homes · For people with disabilities
- Mhpi Xi HUD-assisted 337 Elliott St, Beverly 01915 4 low-income homes · For people with disabilities
- Middle Road Residence HUD-assisted 23 Middle Rd, Amesbury 01913 4 low-income homes · For people with disabilities
- Miller Road Residence HUD-assisted 15 Miller Rd, Beverly 01915 4 low-income homes · For people with disabilities
- Sewell Building Tax credit (LIHTC) 156 Elm St, Marblehead 4 low-income homes · In service since 1994
- Top House HUD-assisted 198 Central St, Topsfield 01983 4 low-income homes · For people with disabilities
- West Winkley HUD-assisted 21 W Winkley St, Amesbury 01913 4 low-income homes · For people with disabilities · (978) 462-8251
- Harbor Village HUD-assisted 206 Main St, Gloucester 01930 27 homes, 3 low-income · (617) 593-4263
- Family Quarters HUD-assisted 4 Reed Rd, Peabody 01960 3 low-income homes · For people with disabilities
- Tenney Place 2 HUD-assisted 505 W Lowell Ave, Haverhill 01832 3 low-income homes · (978) 872-1100
- Duck Mill Apartments HUD-assisted 4 Union St, Lawrence 01840 71 homes, 2 low-income · (978) 683-3089
- Hayes at Railroad Square HUD-assisted 14 Granite St, Haverhill 01832 31 homes, 2 low-income · (978) 521-0014
- Washington ST Housing HUD-assisted 147 Washington St, Lynn 01902 145 homes · For older adults
- Mission Towers Tax credit (LIHTC) 180 Water St, Haverhill 117 homes · In service since 1993
- Turtle Creek Housing LLC Tax credit (LIHTC) 401 Essex St, Beverly 109 homes
- Jaclen Tower Tax credit (LIHTC) 215 Rantoul St, Beverly 100 homes · In service since 2013 · For older adults
- Central Grammar Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 10 Dale Ave, Gloucester 78 homes
- Winter Street Housing Tax credit (LIHTC) 81 Winter St, Haverhill 52 homes · Studio: 52 · In service since 2006 · For people experiencing homelessness
- ST Joseph & Aposs Redevelopment Tax credit (LIHTC) 135 Lafayette St, Salem 51 homes · 1 bd: 6 · 2 bd: 38 · 3 bd: 7 · In service since 2013 · For people with disabilities, families, people experiencing homelessness
- Conifer Hill Commons II Tax credit (LIHTC) 121 Conifer Hill Dr, Danvers 42 homes
- American Woolen Mills Tax credit (LIHTC) Wood Way, Lawrence 35 homes
- Pleasant ST Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 60 Pleasant St, Beverly 33 homes · Studio: 33 · In service since 2013 · For people experiencing homelessness
- 62 Pleasant Street Tax credit (LIHTC) 62 Pleasant St, Beverly 32 homes
- Great Bridge (haverhill) Tax credit (LIHTC) 62 Portland St, Haverhill 30 homes · 1 bd: 8 · 2 bd: 15 · 3 bd: 15
- Holcroft Park Homes Phase II Tax credit (LIHTC) 23 Mill St, Beverly 29 homes · 1 bd: 4 · 2 bd: 17 · 3 bd: 8 · In service since 2013 · For people with disabilities, families
- Holcroft Park Homes One LP Tax credit (LIHTC) 9 Mill St, Beverly 28 homes
- Haverhill Veterans Housing Tax credit (LIHTC) 2 Reed St, Haverhill 27 homes
- Cape Ann YMCA Community Center Tax credit (LIHTC) 67 Middle St, Gloucester 24 homes · Studio: 24 · In service since 1994
- 240 Conant Street Tax credit (LIHTC) 240 Conant St, Danvers 18 homes
- New Hadley Tax credit (LIHTC) 500 Hadley West Dr, Haverhill In service since 2015 · For families
- The Residences at El Centro HUD-assisted 73 Lafayette St, Salem 01970
- Turtle Woods HUD-assisted 399 Essex St, Beverly 01915
Source: HUD, retrieved November 6, 2026. LIHTC database, updated May 14, 2025; Assisted multifamily properties, updated October 23, 2026; Public housing developments, updated October 23, 2026.
Section 8
The Section 8 voucher in Essex County
The Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) pays part of your rent on a home you choose. Your public housing agency runs it. 20 agencies serve in Essex County. Here is what the rules say:
The rules, with their source
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You apply at the public housing agency. If you qualify, your name usually goes on a waiting list. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or noncitizens with eligible status as HUD defines it. Source: HUD
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Generally, your family must have very low income: no more than 50% of the area median income, by family size (the middle column of the table). Source: 24 CFR §5.603, §982.201(b)
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Each year, at least 75% of the families an agency admits from its list must have extremely low income (the 30% column). Source: 24 CFR §982.201(b)(2)
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If the rent is below the payment standard, the family generally pays 30% of its adjusted monthly income. If it is above, the family pays more. Source: 24 CFR §982.1(a)(3)
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When you move in, if the rent is above the payment standard, your share cannot go over 40% of your adjusted monthly income. Source: 24 CFR §982.508
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Each agency sets a payment standard for each size. Without asking HUD, it can go from 90% to 110% of the fair market rent. Source: 24 CFR §982.503(b), (c)
| People | Extremely low (30%) | Very low (50%) | Low |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $36,000 | $60,000 | $96,000 |
| 2 people | $41,150 | $68,600 | $109,700 |
| 3 people | $46,300 | $77,150 | $123,400 |
| 4 people | $51,400 | $85,700 | $137,100 |
| 5 people | $55,550 | $92,600 | $148,100 |
| 6 people | $59,650 | $99,450 | $159,050 |
| 7 people | $63,750 | $106,300 | $170,050 |
| 8 people | $67,850 | $113,150 | $181,000 |
Area median income: $164,600. HUD income limits by family size, Fiscal year 2026. Area: Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH HUD Metro FMR Area. Where a single figure is needed, we use Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH HUD Metro FMR Area, the area where most people live. Source: HUD, Fiscal year 2026
Income limits by HUD area in Essex County
HUD splits this county into 2 areas, each with its own limits. These are for 4 people; find your town in its area's list. The agency tells you which one is yours.
| HUD area | Median income | Extremely low (30%) | Very low (50%) | Low (80%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH HUD Metro FMR Area The area where most people live 24 towns in this areaAmesbury city, Beverly city, Danvers town, Essex town, Gloucester city, Hamilton town, Ipswich town, Lynn city, Lynnfield town, Manchester-by-the-Sea town, Marblehead town, Middleton town, Nahant town, Newbury town, Newburyport city, Peabody city, Rockport town, Rowley town, Salem city, Salisbury town, Saugus town, Swampscott town, Topsfield town, Wenham town | $164,600 | $51,400 | $85,700 | $137,100 |
Lawrence, MA-NH HUD Metro FMR Area 10 towns in this areaAndover town, Boxford town, Georgetown town, Groveland town, Haverhill city, Lawrence city, Merrimac town, Methuen city, North Andover town, West Newbury town | $137,300 | $41,200 | $68,650 | $106,800 |
HUD income limits by area for 4 people, per year, Fiscal year 2026. Source: HUD, Fiscal year 2026 Source: Income Limits (HUD) Fiscal year 2026 Income Limits (HUD) (external site)
HUD sets fair market rents by area inside this county, so the 90% to 110% range depends on your area. Your agency publishes its payment standard.
Housing agencies that serve this place
- Lawrence Housing Authority Public housing and Section 8 vouchers · 1,031 vouchers · 1,050 public housing units (978) 685-3811 Lawrence Housing Authority: lhamail@lawrencehousing.org
- Lynn Housing Authority Public housing and Section 8 vouchers · 1,571 vouchers · 455 public housing units (781) 581-8600 Lynn Housing Authority: cgaeta@lhand.org
- Salem Housing Authority Public housing and Section 8 vouchers · 1,387 vouchers · 39 public housing units (978) 744-4432 Salem Housing Authority: dtucker@salemha.org
- Gloucester Housing Authority Public housing and Section 8 vouchers · 660 vouchers · 89 public housing units (978) 281-4770 Gloucester Housing Authority: jhapgood@ghama.com
- Methuen Housing Authority Public housing and Section 8 vouchers · 569 vouchers · 42 public housing units (978) 682-8607 Methuen Housing Authority: amoglia@methuenhousing.org
- Beverly Housing Authority Public housing and Section 8 vouchers · 441 vouchers · 168 public housing units (978) 922-3100 Beverly Housing Authority: executivedirector@beverlyhousing.net
- Haverhill Housing Authority Section 8 vouchers · 467 vouchers (978) 372-6761 Haverhill Housing Authority: clara@haverhillhousing.com
- Peabody Housing Authority Section 8 vouchers · 341 vouchers (978) 531-1938 Peabody Housing Authority: ecronin@peabodyhousing.org
- Saugus Housing Authority Public housing and Section 8 vouchers · 154 vouchers · 100 public housing units (781) 233-2116 Saugus Housing Authority: jahart@saugusha.com
- North Andover Housing Authority Public housing and Section 8 vouchers · 137 vouchers · 105 public housing units (978) 682-3932 North Andover Housing Authority: mcleary@northandoverha.com
- Danvers Housing Authority Public housing and Section 8 vouchers · 149 vouchers · 76 public housing units (978) 777-0909 Danvers Housing Authority: cdunn@danvershousing.org
- Bridgewell Section 8 vouchers · 187 vouchers (781) 593-1088 Bridgewell: ewhite@bridgewell.org
- Rockport Housing Authority Section 8 vouchers · 157 vouchers (978) 546-3181 Rockport Housing Authority: director@rockportha.com
- Newburyport Housing Authority Public housing and Section 8 vouchers · 156 vouchers (978) 465-7216 Newburyport Housing Authority: kkane@nhahousing.com
- Andover Housing Authority Section 8 vouchers · 131 vouchers (978) 475-2365 Andover Housing Authority: emily@andoverhousing.org
- Amesbury Housing Authority Section 8 vouchers · 111 vouchers (978) 388-2022 Amesbury Housing Authority: executivedirector@amesburyha.com
- Middlesex North Resources Center, Inc. Section 8 vouchers · 85 vouchers (781) 599-4220 Middlesex North Resources Center, Inc.: ewhite@bridgewell.org
- Salisbury Housing Authority Section 8 vouchers · 61 vouchers (978) 462-8600 Salisbury Housing Authority: jim@ipswichhousing.com
- Ipswich Housing Authority Section 8 vouchers · 58 vouchers (978) 356-2860 Ipswich Housing Authority: jim@ipswichhousing.com
- Groveland Housing Authority Public housing · 58 public housing units (978) 374-0370 Groveland Housing Authority: clara@haverhillhousing.com
Housing agencies in Massachusetts Source: HUD, Retrieved November 6, 2026
Your rights as a tenant in Massachusetts
What Massachusetts law says about deposits, notices and eviction, with the citation for each rule.
See your rights, rule by ruleCompare these rules with other states →
A summary of state law, not legal advice. Cities may have additional rules.
- How much can they charge for a deposit?
- Up to 1 month of rent
- M.G.L. c. 186, §15B(1)(b)
- When must they return my deposit?
- 30 days
- M.G.L. c. 186, §15B(4)
- If I fall behind on rent, what notice must I get?
- 14 days
- M.G.L. c. 186, §11
- How much notice ends a month-to-month rental?
- 30 days
- M.G.L. c. 186, §12
- Only a court order can remove youM.G.L. c. 186, §15F
- Protection from retaliationM.G.L. c. 186, §18
- Repair and deduct from the rentM.G.L. c. 111, §127L
Help
Where to get help with rent in Essex County
This HUD-approved agency has an office in Essex County. They counsel for free or at low cost.
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Act Lawrence, Inc Formerly Arlington Community Trabajando, Inc
15 Union St Ste 417, Lawrence
- Mortgage delinquency and default
- Mortgage delinquency workshops
- and 8 more
Tool
How much cash do you need to move in?
It starts with the 2-bedroom fair market rent in Essex County. Change the rent, the deposit and the fees to yours: the numbers stay in your browser.
Count power on top of the rent: in Massachusetts, the average home bill was $167 a month in 2024 (EIA). See electricity and gas costs
Your move
We use the place's fair market rent and the state's deposit rule.
Adjust advanced details
Let's do the math
Cash to move in
$6,016
What you need before you get the keys.
What adds up
- First month
- $3,008
- Security deposit
- $3,008
- Total
- $6,016
When you'll have it
Enter what you can set aside each month to see how long it takes.
What helps
- Ask for a receipt for every payment and keep a copy of the lease.
- On move-in day, walk through the home and take dated photos.
- Never send money for a home you haven't seen or a lease you haven't read.
This is a planning estimate, not a price. What you are asked for depends on the landlord, your lease and your state's and city's rules. It is not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
What is the fair market rent in Essex County?
According to HUD (Fiscal year 2027): Studio: $1,677–$2,440; 1 bedroom: $1,809–$2,518; 2 bedrooms: $2,367–$3,008; 3 bedrooms: $2,820–$3,584; 4 bedrooms: $3,111–$3,953. It covers rent plus basic utilities, except the phone. HUD sets it by area within this county: the figure runs from the lowest area to the highest.
How much do you need to earn to rent in Essex County?
Paying the 2-bedroom fair market rent ($2,367–$3,008) without spending more than 30% of income takes $45.52–$57.85 an hour full time, or $94,680–$120,320 a year.
Who qualifies for Section 8 in Essex County?
Generally, families with very low income: no more than 50% of the area median income. For 4 people, HUD's limit here is $68,650–$85,700 a year (Fiscal year 2026). The family usually pays 30% of its adjusted monthly income. You apply at the housing agency.
Does the fair market rent change by ZIP code in Essex County?
For 2 bedrooms they run from $2,080 in 01834 to $3,420 in 01940. Where HUD designates these areas, or where the housing agency chooses to use them, the voucher is figured on the ZIP code's rent instead of the county's. Ask your agency which one it uses.
How many low-income apartments are there in Essex County?
HUD lists 201 properties with homes for low-income households in Essex County: tax-credit apartments (LIHTC), HUD-assisted buildings and public housing. They run from the most low-income homes to the fewest. For tax-credit apartments and HUD-assisted buildings, you apply directly at the building's management office. They tell you whether units are open and how to apply; HUD does not have that information.
How many households spend too much on rent in Essex County?
HUD counts rent as a burden when it reaches 30% of income or more. In Essex County, 57% of renter households are in that position; in Massachusetts, 52%, and nationwide, 51% (Average 2020–2024, Census).