Cost of Living in Shelburne Falls, MA

With a cost of living index of 94, Shelburne Falls, MA is slightly more affordable than average. Living here is 6% cheaper than the national average and 35% below the Massachusetts state average of 129. Shelburne Falls is a small community of 1,755 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Shelburne Falls's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,069 (19% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $296,000 (3% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 5.6x the median household income — a stretch for many buyers, though not uncommon in today's market.

The median household income in Shelburne Falls is $52,604, which is 30% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 24% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Shelburne Falls. The area sees an average annual temperature of 46.9°F, with summers averaging 67°F and winters around 26°F. Annual rainfall totals 42.3 inches spread over roughly 153 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

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.