Study: How Far Does Newton's Dollar Stretch?

• By Charlene Arsenault (Patch Staff)

MIDDLESEX COUNTY, MA—Middlesex County has fourth strongest purchasing power in Massachusetts, according to a recent study that takes a look at the cost of living expenses balanced with the average income.

The study released by SmartAsset, a personal finance resource, showed that Worcester County is tops in the state for getting the most for the money, with a purchasing power index of 78.19. Middlesex County's index is 77.8, with a cost of living amount at $52,135 as it compared to a median income of $83,488.

The study, according to SmartAsset, aimed to find the "places where average living expenses are most affordable to the people who live there. To find these counties we looked at the cost of living relative to income to determine the purchasing power."

Two different cost of living numbers were calculated for for a household with one adult and no dependents. One, according to SmartAsset, reflected the baseline cost of living in each area and the other was based on expenditures typical to someone making the county’s median income.

Here is how the counties ranked in terms of purchasing power:

1. Worcester County
2. Norfolk County
3. Nantucket County
4. Middlesex County
5. Plymouth County
6. Dukes County
7. Hampshire County
8. Essex County
9. Barnstable County
10. Berkshire County

Find the complete study here.