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Today's Population and Households

An overview of who is living in Massachusetts today and the many kinds of households in the state.

The first step in creating a housing plan is understanding who the plan is for. This includes assessing who is living in Massachusetts today, what kinds of households they form, what their housing needs are, and what unique challenges face certain household segments.  Additionally, it is important to explore the demographic factors that have contributed to growth and demand over the last two decades. This section explores what is known about Massachusetts residents and households, and what it means for current and future housing needs. 

Population and Households -- Highlights

  • Massachusetts has seen strong growth in housing demand over the past 15 years as over 300,000 younger Millennials – many born and raised in Massachusetts – formed new households.
  • While the needs of Baby Boomer families dominated the housing market in Massachusetts 25 years ago, most of those householders are now empty nesters. The number of families and children in Massachusetts has declined over that period.
  • The state has seen rapid growth of both low-income and high-income jobs, and a decline in middle-income occupations. With few homes available, high-earners can outbid everyone else for what

Current Household Characteristics 

Household Income 

Tenure and Housing Type 

The Affordable Homes Act established commissions to study the housing needs of three specific household segments.

Extremely Low-Income Households 

Households in need of Accessible Housing 

Older Adult Households 

Families with Children 

People in need of Supportive Housing 

The Households Who Aren't There 

Population and Households Table of Contents

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