Cost of Living in Williamstown, MA

With a cost of living index of 106, Williamstown, MA is somewhat more expensive than average. Living here is 6% more expensive than the national average and 23% below the Massachusetts state average of 129. Williamstown is a small community of 4,352 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Williamstown's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,244 (6% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $436,900 (43% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 5.3x the median household income — a stretch for many buyers, though not uncommon in today's market.

The median household income in Williamstown is $82,917, which is 10% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 18% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Williamstown. 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.

Everyday prices in the Pittsfield, MA (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area are generally below the national average. Out of 6 common items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 5 are priced lower 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.