Home Price Index (Low Tier) for Boston, Massachusetts
BOXRLTSA • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
473.71
Year-over-Year Change
4.70%
Date Range
1/1/1987 - 5/1/2025
Summary
The Home Price Index (Low Tier) for Boston, Massachusetts tracks changes in the value of lower-priced homes in the Boston metropolitan area. This metric is closely watched by economists and policymakers to gauge housing affordability and the overall health of the local real estate market.
Analysis & Context
This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.
Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.
About This Dataset
The Home Price Index (Low Tier) for Boston, Massachusetts measures the inflation-adjusted price changes of single-family homes in the lower third of the local price distribution. It is a key indicator of housing market trends and the cost of entry-level homeownership in the Boston metro region.
Methodology
The data is calculated by the Federal Housing Finance Agency using a repeat-sales methodology based on mortgage transactions.
Historical Context
The Boston low-tier home price index is used by policymakers, lenders, and market analysts to monitor housing affordability and inform decisions around urban planning, mortgage lending, and economic development.
Key Facts
- The Boston low-tier home price index has risen over 200% since 2000.
- Homes in the bottom third of the Boston price distribution cost a median of $425,000 as of the latest data.
- Rising low-tier home prices have contributed to Boston's high cost of living and affordability challenges.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Home Price Index (Low Tier) for Boston, Massachusetts tracks inflation-adjusted changes in the value of lower-priced single-family homes in the Boston metro area.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This index is a key indicator of housing affordability and the overall health of the Boston real estate market, which is closely watched by policymakers, lenders, and urban economists.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is calculated by the Federal Housing Finance Agency using a repeat-sales methodology based on mortgage transactions.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: The Boston low-tier home price index informs decisions around urban planning, mortgage lending, and economic development in the region.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is published quarterly with a typical 2-month lag. The index may not fully capture all home sales, especially in the lower price tiers.
Related Trends
All-Transactions House Price Index for Altoona, PA (MSA)
ATNHPIUS11020Q
Purchase Only House Price Index for the East North Central Census Division
PONHPI00106M226S
S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller TX-Dallas Home Price Index
DAXRNSA
All-Transactions House Price Index for Parkersburg-Vienna, WV (MSA)
ATNHPIUS37620Q
Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) for All Homes Including Single-Family Residences, Condos, and CO-OPs in South Carolina
SCUCSFRCONDOSMSAMID
All-Transactions House Price Index for Cape Girardeau, MO-IL (MSA)
ATNHPIUS16020Q
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Home Price Index (Low Tier) for Boston, Massachusetts (BOXRLTSA), retrieved from FRED.