Cost of Living in Dover, MA

With a cost of living index of 180, Dover, MA is one of the most expensive cities in the United States. Living here is 80% more expensive than the national average and 50% above the Massachusetts state average of 129. Dover is a small community of 2,386 residents.

The median household income in Dover is $250,001, which is 233% higher than the national median of $75,149. While incomes are above average, they more than offset the higher cost of living.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Dover. The area sees an average annual temperature of 52°F, with summers averaging 72°F and winters around 32°F. Annual rainfall totals 43.9 inches spread over roughly 135 days.

Everyday prices in the Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area tend to run above the national average. Out of 6 common grocery and utility items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced higher than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.