Affordable & Income-Based Housing in New Bedford

Affordability in New Bedford

New Bedford has a median household income of $56,981 and a median gross rent of $1,137 per month, according to Census ACS 5-Year data (as of 2024). With 60% of residents renting their homes, the city has a strong renter base, and the 1,585 income-restricted units across 14 HUD-assisted properties here can offer meaningful relief for cost-burdened households.

Safety

According to FBI Crime Data Explorer, the New Bedford Police Department reported a violent crime rate of 354 per 100,000 residents in 2024. Crime rates are not comparable across cities due to differences in reporting practices and local definitions.

Getting Around New Bedford

According to Walk Score, the area around assisted properties in New Bedford scores 67 (Somewhat Walkable) for walking, 46 (Some Transit) for public transit, and 49 for biking. These scores reflect conditions near the 14 HUD-assisted properties tracked on this page.

Schools

New Bedford is served by 27 public schools across 4 districts, including 19 elementary, 3 middle, and 5 high schools, according to NCES Common Core of Data. Ratings vary by school and district, so renters should check the assigned schools for a specific address.

Cost of Living

The median household income in New Bedford is $56,981 per year, according to Census ACS 5-Year data. The median asking rent citywide is $1,137 per month, also per Census ACS 5-Year estimates.

Income-based housing in New Bedford is designed to keep rent affordable relative to what residents actually earn -- typically capping costs at 30% of a household's gross income. With 1,585 income-restricted units across 14 HUD-assisted properties in the city, there are meaningful options for renters who qualify.

Environment and Flood Risk

All 14 assisted properties in New Bedford have been mapped for flood risk. None are located in a high-risk flood zone, which is a positive sign for renters concerned about flood exposure.