Social Security

10 Best Places to Live in Massachusetts on Only a Social Security Check

10 Best Places to Live in Massachusetts on Only a Social Security Check. If you’re a senior couple seeking a place to retire in Massachusetts while relying solely on Social Security checks, the options are limited in this historically expensive state.

In a comprehensive analysis, GOBankingRates identified the top ten places for livability and affordability on a Social Security-only budget, considering factors such as population demographics, cost of living, and livability scores.

Table of Contents

Massachusetts A Desirable Yet Pricey State

Massachusetts, known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and top-notch amenities, ranks as the fourth most expensive state in the U.S. While the state offers numerous attractions and benefits, finding an affordable and livable place can be challenging, especially for retirees on a tight budget.

The Challenge of Social Security-Only Retirement

With the average combined Social Security benefit for couples around $3,580 per month, finding towns in Massachusetts with a livability score of at least 60 proves to be a daunting task. This challenge is intensified by the state’s high living costs, trailing only Hawaii, New York, and California.

Top 10 Affordable and Livable Places for Retirees

Here’s a curated list of the ten best places in Massachusetts where retired couples can make ends meet on Social Security checks, considering factors such as average rent, total monthly cost of living, and livability scores.

1. Fitchburg

Average rent: $1,560.66
Total monthly cost of living: $3,396.15
Livability score: 69
Attractions: Fitchburg State University, Fitchburg Art Museum, Cogshall Park

2. Leominster

Average rent: $1,658.93
Total monthly cost of living: $3,477.90
Livability score: 69
Outdoor offerings: Leominster State Forest, Doyle Community Park, Monument Square

3. New Bedford

Average rent: $1,663.96
Total monthly cost of living: $3,429.91
Livability score: 64
Attractions: New Bedford Whaling Museum, Whaling National Historic Park

4. Fall River

Average rent: $1,646.48
Total monthly cost of living: $3,379.17
Livability score: 60
Points of interest: USS Massachusetts at Battleship Cove, Fall River Heritage State Park

5. Worcester

Average rent: $1,866.59
Total monthly cost of living: $3,663.05
Livability score: 80
Features: Ethnically diverse, numerous parks, 20+ lakes, outdoor recreation opportunities

6. Taunton

Average rent: $1,700.55
Total monthly cost of living: $3,459.45
Livability score: 75
Historical features: Old Colony History Museum, Taunton Green

7. Clinton

Average rent: $1,400.00
Total monthly cost of living: $3,200.05
Livability score: 69
Attractions: Fuller Field (oldest continuously used baseball field), historical charm

8. Springfield

Average rent: $1,582.17
Total monthly cost of living: $3,352.18
Livability score: 74
Historical significance: Birthplace of basketball, Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

9. Pittsfield

Average rent: $1,450.05
Total monthly cost of living: $3,178.72
Livability score: 73
Blend of arts, history, and outdoor recreation

10. Chicopee

Average rent: $1,431.25
Total monthly cost of living: $3,150.08
Livability score: 75
Features: Lowest total monthly cost in the list, Chicopee Memorial State Park attractions

Conclusion

These Massachusetts towns offer viable options for retirees seeking affordable living on Social Security alone. Despite the state’s overall expense, the listed places provide a balance of livability, historical charm, and outdoor attractions for a comfortable retirement.