Houses for Rent in Chelsea, MA

The median rent for a single-family home in Chelsea, MA is $3,375 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of June 2026, condos tend to be the most affordable option while townhouses and single-family homes are currently more expensive.

To comfortably afford the median rent in Chelsea, MA, a household needs to earn roughly $101,000 per year. This is based on the common guideline that households should spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing. Most landlords require monthly household income of at least 3x the monthly rent, and with a median rent of $2,525 per month in Chelsea, MA, renters typically need to show $7,575 per month in gross income to qualify. Actual affordability will vary depending on household debts, other living expenses, and overall budget.

In Chelsea, MA, the price-to-rent ratio is 15.7, which generally favors renting. This ratio divides the median home price by the annual median rent: below 15 typically favors buying, 15 to 20 is balanced, and above 20 typically favors renting. Your finances, how long you plan to stay, and costs like mortgage rates, taxes, and maintenance all factor into the decision.

The best neighborhood for renting in Chelsea, MA depends on your priorities: commute, walkability, budget, and lifestyle all play a role. Popular areas for renting a single-family home include Eagle Hill, East Cambridge, Beacon Hill, Boston Common and North Medford, each with its own character and price range.