Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Amherst, MA
Thinking of moving to Amherst, MA? This vibrant college town of about 39,263 residents features a youthful vibe, thanks to its renowned universities and high educational attainment (over 71% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher). With a median home price around $432,000, average rents at $1,650, and a moderate cost of living, Amherst offers relatively low crime rates and short commutes averaging 20.5 minutes. You'll enjoy four distinct seasons, highly rated schools, and excellent healthcare options in this welcoming and intellectually rich community.
Demographics - Amherst, MA
Demographics - Amherst, MA
Amherst is home to approximately 39,263 residents, with a notably young median age of 21.9 due to its large student population. The city is diverse, with over 13% Asian residents and 13.5% speaking a language other than English at home. Its relatively balanced gender ratio and moderate population density create a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere.
Population:
39,263
Density:
1,000 per sq mi
Median Age:
21.9
Gender Ratio:
88 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
13.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
71.2%
Black:
5.7%
Asian:
13.0%
Others:
10.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Amherst, MA?
Amherst’s cost of living index is about 20% higher than the national average, with a median home value of $432,000 and typical rents around $1,650 per month. Residents can expect moderate utility and transportation expenses, while state taxes range from 5% to 9%. The area’s housing and grocery costs are higher than average, reflecting its appeal as a college town.
Median House Value:
$432,000
Gross Rent:
$1,650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,420
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,200
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$750
State Taxes:
Low:
5.0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
120.7
Grocery:
113.8
Housing:
127.4
Utilities:
112.2
Transportation:
117.9
Health Care:
115.3
Miscellaneous:
111.5
Crime
Is Amherst, MA a safe place to live?
Amherst boasts lower-than-average crime rates, with just 107 violent crimes per 100,000 people and a 1 in 934 chance of being a victim of violent crime. Property crime is more common but still moderate, giving most residents peace of mind. The city’s overall safety and active community contribute to its welcoming environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
107
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,057
Crime Index:
1,164
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 934
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 95
Weather
What is the weather like in Amherst, MA year-round?
Amherst experiences all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 16°F and pleasant summers reaching highs near 83°F. The city enjoys 54% sunny days and receives about 47.5 inches of rainfall annually. Residents benefit from mild spring and fall temperatures, making outdoor activities enjoyable throughout the year.
Winter
Min:
16°F
Max:
34°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
41°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Amherst’s community reflects a wide range of incomes, with a household median of $57,100 and a significant student population influencing a 34.5% poverty rate. Most residents are highly educated, with over 97% holding a high school diploma and more than 71% having a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average commute is a convenient 20.5 minutes, and public transportation is accessible to about 7% of locals.
Median Income:
$20,670
Household Income:
$57,100
Family Income:
$104,600
Per Capita Income:
$24,700
Income Male:
$32,900
Income Female:
$26,100
Poverty Rate:
34.5%
Non English Speakers:
13.5%
Rent:
$1,650
Unemployment Rate:
3.5%
Public Transport Usage:
7.1%
Commute Time:
20.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
97.6%
Bachelors or More:
71.4%
Education
How are the schools in Amherst, MA?
Amherst is renowned for its strong educational offerings, including top-rated public schools and three prestigious colleges: University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst College, and Hampshire College. Public schools feature low student-teacher ratios, while the city’s college presence fosters a vibrant academic community. Families and students benefit from a wealth of educational resources and opportunities.
Public Schools
Name:
Amherst Regional High School
Street:
21 Mattoon St
Phone:
413-362-1701
Students:
950
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.1
Name:
Wildwood Elementary School
Street:
71 Strong St
Phone:
413-362-1401
Students:
340
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.8
Private Schools
Name:
The Common School
Street:
521 S Pleasant St
Phone:
413-256-8989
Students:
125
Colleges
Name:
University of Massachusetts Amherst
City:
Amherst
State:
MA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
32,200
Name:
Amherst College
City:
Amherst
State:
MA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,900
Name:
Hampshire College
City:
Amherst
State:
MA
Distance:
2 miles
Students:
500
Healthcare
Residents have access to excellent healthcare, with 3.2 physicians per 1,000 people and nearly 98% of the population insured. The nearby Cooley Dickinson Hospital provides comprehensive general and emergency services. Amherst’s healthcare index suggests quality care is easily accessible for individuals and families alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Cooley Dickinson Hospital
Address:
30 Locust St, Northampton, MA 01060
Phone:
(413) 582-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
97.9%
Health Care Index:
77.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Amherst, MA?
Amherst’s housing market features a median home price of $432,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom at $1,650, reflecting steady demand. About 47% of homes are owner-occupied, and the area has seen a 6.1% appreciation in home values over the past year. The market remains stable, with low foreclosure and vacancy rates.
Median Home Price:
$432,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,650
Owner Occupied Rate:
47.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Amherst residents are served by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles, located in nearby Easthampton. The RMV offers a full range of licensing and registration services, accessible both in person and online. Assistance is available by phone or through the state's official website.
State:
Massachusetts
Department:
Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles
Address:
116 Pleasant St, Easthampton, MA 01027
Phone:
1-857-368-8000
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.