POLLING: Housing and Taxes Drive the Governor’s Race

Kitchen table economics matter more than partisan politics in Massachusetts.

In our most recent polling of Massachusetts voters*, 32 percent of voters identified reducing housing costs as the single most important issue they want the gubernatorial candidates to address in their campaigns—more than any other issue. Another 21 percent of residents pointed to reducing taxes, followed by 14 percent who prioritized spurring economic development. 

This isn’t partisan posturing or political theater. It’s families struggling to afford the basics in a state they call home. When two-thirds of your electorate is asking for relief on issues that directly affect their ability to pay rent, buy groceries, and build a future, that’s not just public sentiment—it’s a mandate.

Housing Crisis Causes Concern Statewide—Especially For Gen Z

Massachusetts’ median home price jumped 10 percent to $610,000 in 2024 and topped $675,000 by spring 2025. Buyers now need about $162,000 in annual household income to afford a typical home, while Boston one-bedroom apartments average $2,600 monthly—67 percent above the national average. Currently, the state ranks 50th (out of 50 states plus Washington, DC) in housing affordability nationwide, earning an F grade from Realtor.com. 

Housing affordability is key to retaining the state’s workforce. Notably, nearly half of Gen Z respondents (47 percent) identified housing affordability as their top priority—almost double the rate of Baby Boomers (24 percent). 

When young professionals can find similar jobs in states where their paychecks better cover rent and mortgages, Massachusetts becomes a state that trains talent only to export it. If we ignore the problem, the next generation will build their lives—and pay their taxes—somewhere else. This isn’t just a Boston problem. Statewide suburban voters (33 percent), urban residents (30 percent), and rural communities (30 percent) all demand housing relief.

Taxes are a Universal Concern

Just as housing affordability transcends demographics, the demand for tax relief cuts across generational lines with remarkable consistency. Unlike housing, where younger voters showed dramatically higher concern, tax reduction appeals broadly to Massachusetts residents regardless of age or career stage.

This data reveals a second economic pressure point hitting Bay State families. Young people aren’t just struggling with rent—they’re watching significant portions of their paychecks disappear to state and local taxes. Combined with housing costs, these financial pressures create a squeeze that makes leaving Massachusetts increasingly attractive, regardless of how long you’ve called it home.

Conclusion

While the state has taken steps in recent years to address this crisis, there is certainly more work to be done. As the race for governor heats up, candidates would be wise to listen to what the voters are saying: tackle housing costs and tax burdens or watch your constituents leave for more affordable states.

Candidates can debate policy details, but the next governor will ultimately be measured by one simple metric—whether Bay State families can afford to build their futures here. The outcome will determine Massachusetts competitiveness for years to come. 

*Polling was conducted among a sample of 508 residents of Massachusetts who are 18 years of age and older and registered voters.  This survey was live on May 15-20, 2025 and statistical significance testing in comparisons was performed at 95% confidence level.