A parsonage is a house provided by a church for its minister (often called a parson, pastor, or priest) to live in. Think of it as part of the minister's compensation: instead of just receiving a salary, the minister gets a place to live right near the church where they work.

Parsonages are usually located close to the church building itself, sometimes right next door or across the street. This made practical sense historically because ministers needed to be available when church members needed help, whether for a wedding, a funeral, or a family emergency. Before cars and telephones, having the minister living nearby meant people could walk over and knock on the door.

Many churches still own parsonages today, though some ministers prefer to receive extra salary and find their own homes. The arrangement can be convenient: the church maintains the building, and the minister doesn't have to worry about buying a home when they move to serve a new congregation. However, living in a parsonage also means the minister doesn't build ownership in a home the way most families do.