Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Bedford, MA
Considering a move to Bedford, MA? This friendly Boston suburb of 14,383 residents offers outstanding schools, a highly educated community, and a median home price of $865,000. With low crime rates (just 30 violent crimes per 100K) and short average commutes of 28 minutes, Bedford is both safe and convenient. The cost of living is higher than average, but is balanced by strong incomes, excellent public services, and a classic New England climate. Explore all Bedford has to offer below to plan your next chapter.
Demographics - Bedford, MA
Demographics - Bedford, MA
Bedford, MA is a welcoming community of 14,383 residents, notable for its diversity with nearly 20% Asian population and 18.4% speaking a language other than English at home. The median age of 44.4 reflects a mature population, and the area offers a balanced gender ratio with slightly more females than males. This suburban town features moderate population density, making it appealing for families and professionals alike.
Population:
14,383
Density:
1,310 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.4
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
18.4%
Ethnic Composition
White:
71.5%
Black:
2.2%
Asian:
19.3%
Others:
7.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Bedford, MA?
Living in Bedford comes with a higher-than-average cost of living index at 158.2, largely driven by a median home value of $865,000 and typical rents around $2,400. Residents benefit from quality services and amenities, though expenses for groceries, healthcare, and transportation are above national averages. State tax rates range from 5% to 9%, reflecting Massachusetts standards.
Median House Value:
$865,000
Gross Rent:
$2,400
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,780
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,020
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$1,120
State Taxes:
Low:
5.0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
158.2
Grocery:
118.5
Housing:
202.7
Utilities:
115.5
Transportation:
130.2
Health Care:
127.4
Miscellaneous:
121.0
Crime
Is Bedford, MA a safe place to live?
Bedford maintains a notably low crime rate, with just 30 violent crimes and 420 property crimes per 100,000 residents, making it a safe choice for families and individuals. The chances of encountering violent crime are about 1 in 3,330, and property crime is uncommon, creating a secure suburban environment. These low figures contribute to Bedford's strong reputation for public safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
30
Property Crimes Per 100k:
420
Crime Index:
450
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 3,330
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 238
Weather
What is the weather like in Bedford, MA year-round?
Bedford experiences classic New England weather, with cold winters averaging lows around 16°F and warm summers reaching up to 84°F. The town receives about 48 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine 54% of the year, offering a pleasant variety of seasonal activities. Residents can expect vibrant fall foliage, snowy winters, and comfortable spring and autumn months.
Winter
Min:
16°F
Max:
36°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
84°F
Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47.9 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Bedford boasts strong household incomes, with a median household income of $143,022 and a low poverty rate of just 3.2%. Nearly 98% of adults have at least a high school diploma, and over 70% hold a bachelor's degree or higher, reflecting a highly educated community. Low unemployment and reasonable commute times enhance the area's appeal for working professionals and families.
Median Income:
$55,000
Household Income:
$143,022
Family Income:
$162,000
Per Capita Income:
$63,117
Income Male:
$75,000
Income Female:
$58,000
Poverty Rate:
3.2%
Non English Speakers:
18.4%
Rent:
$2,400
Unemployment Rate:
3.1%
Public Transport Usage:
8.2%
Commute Time:
27.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
97.8%
Bachelors or More:
70.3%
Education
How are the schools in Bedford, MA?
Bedford is recognized for its excellent public schools, including Bedford High School and John Glenn Middle School, both offering favorable student-teacher ratios. The town is also close to higher education institutions like Middlesex Community College and Tufts University, providing residents with diverse learning opportunities. Families benefit from a range of public, private, and collegiate options within a short distance.
Public Schools
Name:
Bedford High School
Street:
9 Mudge Way
Phone:
781-275-1700
Students:
900
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.2
Name:
John Glenn Middle School
Street:
99 McMahon Rd
Phone:
781-275-3201
Students:
550
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.5
Private Schools
Name:
The Waldorf School of Lexington
Street:
739 Massachusetts Ave, Lexington, MA
Phone:
781-863-1062
Students:
300
Colleges
Name:
Middlesex Community College
City:
Bedford
State:
MA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
7,000
Name:
Tufts University
City:
Medford
State:
MA
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
11,878
Healthcare
Healthcare in Bedford is highly accessible, with 3.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and 97.3% health insurance coverage. Major providers include Emerson Hospital Health Center and the Bedford VA Medical Center, ensuring a full range of general, outpatient, and emergency services. Residents benefit from a solid healthcare infrastructure and a favorable healthcare index.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Emerson Hospital Health Center
Address:
310 Great Rd, Bedford, MA 01730
Phone:
(978) 369-1400
Type:
General & Outpatient
Emergency Services:
No
Name:
Bedford VA Medical Center
Address:
200 Springs Rd, Bedford, MA 01730
Phone:
(781) 687-2000
Type:
Veterans Hospital
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
97.3%
Health Care Index:
81.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Bedford, MA?
Bedford's housing market is robust, with a median home price of $865,000 and a 4.8% annual appreciation rate. About 75% of homes are owner-occupied, and the rental vacancy rate is low at 3.5%, indicating strong demand. The area features stable property values and a healthy mix of homeownership and rental options.
Median Home Price:
$865,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,400
Owner Occupied Rate:
75.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
3.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.8%
New Construction Rate:
1.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles, conveniently accessible in nearby Boston or online. The DMV offers comprehensive services for new residents and current drivers alike. For more information, Bedford locals can visit the official state website or call the main office.
State:
Massachusetts
Department:
Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles
Address:
136 Blackstone St, Boston, MA 02109
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.