Quincy, MA: 2026 Relocation Deep Dive Report

Quincy: The Data Profile (2026)

Quincy presents a distinct statistical profile for the 2026 post-remote workforce. With a population of 101,607, it operates as a high-density satellite city rather than a sprawling suburb. The economic engine is robust: the median income stands at $92,085, which is +23.5% higher than the US median of $74,580. However, this income premium is immediately absorbed by the cost of living structure. The city is highly educated, with 52.6% of residents holding a college degree, nearly double the US average of 33.1%.

The statistical target demographic is the "educated commuter." This is a professional aged 28-45 who works in a hybrid capacity, requiring access to Boston via the T (Red Line) but prioritizes square footage and community amenities over downtown proximity. They leverage a top-tier income to offset a housing market indexed at 128.0.

Cost of Living Analysis

The Cost of Living Index (COLI) baseline is 100.0. Quincy is a premium market, driven primarily by energy and housing costs. While groceries are near parity at 101.0, electricity costs are a massive outlier at 29.35 cents/kWh (US avg: 16.0), nearly 83% higher than the national average.

Disposable Income Analysis:
A single earner making the median income of $92,085 takes home approximately $5,500/month after taxes. The monthly cost of living for a single adult is $3,375, leaving a disposable surplus of $2,125. For a family of 4 relying on a single median income, the surplus drops to roughly $1,400, indicating that dual incomes are statistically necessary for comfortable liquidity in this market.

Housing Market Deep Dive

The housing market is the primary financial hurdle. With a Housing Index of 128.0, Quincy is 28.0% more expensive than the national average. The rent-to-income ratio is high, making the buy vs. rent calculation complex.

Buy vs. Rent Analysis:
To purchase the median home ($675,000) with a 20% down payment ($135,000) at current 2026 rates (~6.5%), the monthly mortgage payment exceeds $4,200. This is roughly $800 more than the monthly rent for a comparable property. Given the +60.7% premium on home prices relative to the US average, renting is the financially prudent option for the first 3-5 years of residency, unless you possess significant liquid capital to offset the high interest environment.

Economic & Job Market Outlook

Quincy’s economy is tethered to the Greater Boston area. The 4.7% unemployment rate is slightly elevated compared to the US average of 4.0%, suggesting a competitive labor market despite the high median income. The "Return to Office" (RTO) mandates in Boston have stabilized the value of Quincy real estate. Commute times are a critical metric: a commute to downtown Boston via the Red Line averages 25-35 minutes, significantly faster than driving during peak hours.

Local industry is dominated by healthcare (South Shore Health) and insurance (Santander, various subsidiaries). The high percentage of college-educated residents (52.6%) indicates a saturated white-collar market; remote workers living here but employed elsewhere have a distinct financial advantage.

Quality of Life Audit

Quincy scores exceptionally well on health metrics and safety, offering a lifestyle premium that justifies the high cost of living. The crime rates are statistically low, and the air quality is superior to most urban centers.

Safety Analysis:
Quincy is a statistically safe city. Violent crime is 234 per 100k (US avg: 380), and property crime is 1,456 per 100k (US avg: 2,000). You are 38% less likely to be a victim of violent crime here than the national average.

Air Quality & Environment:
The AQI of 39 is classified as "Good," with PM2.5 levels at 6.0 µg/m³. This is half the US average, a significant health benefit for long-term residents.

Schools & Weather:
Quincy Public Schools are well-funded, though performance varies by neighborhood. The weather is classic New England: the current temperature of 52.0°F is seasonal, with winters averaging 30°F and summers averaging 80°F. The "Partly Cloudy" conditions noted are typical for 60% of the year.

The Verdict

Pros:

• High Income Potential: Median income is +23.5% above the US average.
• Superior Health Profile: Obesity rates are 22.9% (vs 31.9% US) and AQI is 39.
• Safety: Violent crime is 38% lower than the national average.
• Transit Access: Reliable 25-35 minute commute to Boston.

Cons:

• Housing Cost: Median home price is $675,000 (+60.7% vs US).
• Energy Costs: Electricity is 29.35 cents/kWh (vs 16.0 US).
• Rent Burden: A family of 4 spends roughly $2,941/mo on rent alone.

Recommendation:
Quincy is a BUY for professionals earning above the $92,085 median, specifically those in dual-income households. It is a RENT for singles or single-income families due to the $4,200+ mortgage barrier. The city offers a "health and safety" arbitrage opportunity: you pay a 28% housing premium to live in a city with 40% lower crime and significantly better air quality.

FAQs

1. What salary is needed to live comfortably in Quincy?
For a single person, a salary of $80,000 is the baseline for comfort, leaving roughly $1,500 in monthly savings. For a family, a combined income of $160,000 is recommended to maintain a 20% savings rate.

2. How does Quincy value compare to nearby cities?
Quincy is 15-20% cheaper than Boston proper but 30% more expensive than neighboring Braintree or Weymouth. You pay a premium for the Red Line access and coastal amenities.

3. Are crime rates rising or falling?
Current data shows property crime at 1,456/100k. While historically low, it is +15% higher than 2024 levels, tracking with the national post-pandemic trend.

4. When is the best time to move?
The rental market tightens in June-August (student cycle). The optimal window for lease negotiation is October-February, where you may find 5-8% concessions on rent.