Massachusetts / Hampshire County

Moving to Amherst, MA

Thinking of making a move to Amherst, MA? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Amherst, MA

Considering a move to Amherst, MA? This welcoming community of 39,263 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $432,000 and average rents near $1,650. Commute times average 21 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (54% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Amherst's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Amherst, MA

Amherst has a population of 39,263 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 22 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 71% White, 6% Black, and 13% Asian residents, and over 14% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban 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?

The cost of living in Amherst is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 120.7. Median home values are around $432,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $1,650. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

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 is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 107 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 95. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Massachusetts.

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 four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 83°F and cold winters dipping to 16°F. The area receives about 48 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 54% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
16°F
Max
34°F

Summer

Min
59°F
Max
83°F

Spring

Min
38°F
Max
67°F

Fall

Min
41°F
Max
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches
47.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
54%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $57,100 and a low poverty rate of 34.5%. Over 98% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 71% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 21 minutes, and almost 7% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

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 offers quality education options, with public schools like Amherst Regional High School and Wildwood Elementary School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst College, and Hampshire College. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

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

Amherst residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Cooley Dickinson Hospital nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 3.2 per 1,000 people and 97.9% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
Cooley Dickinson Hospital
Address
30 Locust St, Northampton, MA 01060
Phone
(413) 582-2000
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

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?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $432,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 47%. The market has seen a 6.1% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 5.6%. Amherst offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

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

Residents of Amherst handle vehicle services through the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in Easthampton. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Massachusetts
Department
Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles
Address
116 Pleasant St, Easthampton, MA 01027
Phone
1-857-368-8000

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.

FAQs About Moving to Amherst, MA

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Amherst, review the core fields on this page: population 39,263, median home value $432,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $1,650, commute time 20.5 minutes, and sunny days percentage 54%.

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