My son lives in Fayetteville nc, a real dump of a city. Rents there have skyrocketed past 2 years also. But mass just keeps getting great press, and so many want out of the red state dumpster fires. Many who are coming are highly skilled and can afford it. I have a housing subsidy thankfully. Good luck. I will say, I love my state. I just moved to boston and there is plenty to do even if you are broke. I always planned to leave for the weather but with the state of the country, and an unexpected disability, I doubt I ever will leave.