Explore Fall River, MA
Cost of Living in Fall River, MA (2026) – Salary Needed & Budget Calculator
Thinking about moving to Fall River? Use this 2026 Fall River cost of living calculator to estimate rent, groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare and taxes.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
You have very little buffer for savings or emergencies. A frugal lifestyle may be required.
| Category | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent (Single) | $1,500.00 |
| Utilities | $262.00 |
| Groceries | $450.00 |
| Transportation (Public) | $350.00 |
| Healthcare | $400.00 |
| Miscellaneous (10.0%) | $221.20 |
| Total Estimated Costs | $3,183.20 |
Tax & Benefits Breakdown
Quality of Life & Environment
Local Climate
Enjoy 197 days of sunshine per year. Summer highs avg 89°F, while winter lows dip to 10°F.
Safety & Crime Rate
Fall River ranks as a very high safety zone compared to national averages for similar-sized metros.
Environmental Index
Air quality and environmental health factors in Massachusetts remain a key priority for 2026.
Planning your move to or from Fall River?
Fall River, MA: The Hill of Heritage (2026 Relocation Guide)
Fall River enters 2026 as the cultural and industrial anchor of the South Coast. Built on steep hills overlooking the Taunton River, it is a city of massive Portuguese heritage, historic triple-deckers, and a gritty, resilient soul. It is the choice for multi-generational families and value-seeking Boston-area commuters who value heritage and river views over the manicured silence of the outer suburbs.
📊 Real Monthly Cost: The Relocation Analyst's Estimate
South Coast living carries a managed Massachusetts budget. A single professional needs $3,850 per month, while a family of four will spend $7,400. Massachusetts’s 5.0% tax and high local service costs are the primary hurdles. However, the local cost of basic life—groceries and utilities—is nearly 10% below the Boston metro average. You are paying for the views and the culture.
🏠 Housing Reality: Triple-Deckers and Historic Infill
The 2026 housing market is historically accessible for the region. Median home prices sit near $415,000, buy legacy multi-family homes or historic Craftsman inventory. Rental inventory is robust, with clean 2-bedrooms averaging $1,900. In Fall River, you are buying into a market with massive natural upside and a very stable cultural floor.
⚠️ Hidden Trade-Offs: The Aging Infrastructure
The primary trade-off is the aesthetic; historic portions of the city maintain an industrial grit and aging infrastructure that may feel 'un-manicured.' Additionally, the local economy remains in a slow transition toward the service sector, requiring a commute to Providence or Boston for high-wage tech/commercial roles.
🏆 Final Relocation Verdict
Move here if: You are a South Coast commuter, a multi-generational family seeking deep heritage roots, or an urban pioneer who values river views and direct transit access.
Avoid this city if: You require rural silence, are sensitive to an unpolished urban core, or seek a perfectly manicured 'Country Club' lifestyle.
Salary Needed to Live Comfortably
In our estimation, to live a comfortable life in Fall River with a buffer for savings and hobbies, you would need a gross annual salary of approximately:
This assumes you want to save at least $1,000 per month after all expenses and taxes.
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Calculator Disclaimer
The results provided by this calculator are estimates based on publicly available data and modeling assumptions. Actual living costs, taxes, and relocation expenses may vary depending on personal circumstances, market conditions, and local regulations. This tool is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, tax, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making financial or relocation decisions.