Teacher affordability analyzed across five US states

An analysis by Apartments.com, utilizing National Education Association 2026 data, identifies cities where teachers can most affordably rent one-bedroom apartments relative to their salaries. The study focuses on five states: California, Massachusetts, New York, Washington, and Maryland.

In California, which holds the highest statewide average teacher salary among the five states at $105,726, rental costs vary significantly. While the statewide average rent is $2,268 per month, Sacramento is highlighted as a more affordable option, with an average rent of $1,576 per month. In Sacramento, rent consumes less than one-fifth of the statewide average teacher salary.