Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Chilmark, MA
Considering a move to Chilmark, MA? This scenic Martha’s Vineyard town features a small, close-knit population of just over 1,200, with a notably high median home price of $1.8M and average rents around $2,150. Residents enjoy low crime rates (70 violent crimes per 100K), short 23-minute commutes, and top-notch educational attainment (53% with bachelor’s or higher). Expect a mild coastal climate and a tranquil, high-quality lifestyle ideal for those seeking a peaceful New England retreat.
Demographics - Chilmark, MA
Demographics - Chilmark, MA
Chilmark is a small, close-knit community with a population of around 1,200 residents and a low density of 78 people per square mile. The median age is 55.3, indicating a mature population, and the town is predominantly White, with over 92% of residents identifying as such. A small percentage of non-English speakers and a nearly equal gender ratio contribute to its friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Population:
1,212
Density:
78 per sq mi
Median Age:
55.3
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
92.1%
Black:
2.0%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
4.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Chilmark, MA?
Living in Chilmark comes with a high cost of living, with the median home value at $1.8 million and average rents around $2,150 per month. The overall cost of living index is 195, reflecting elevated housing and utility expenses typical for a desirable Martha’s Vineyard location. Residents should also expect moderate state income taxes and above-average costs for groceries and transportation.
Median House Value:
$1,800,000
Gross Rent:
$2,150
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$170
Auto Insurance:
$1,250
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,700
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$1,050
State Taxes:
Low:
5.0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
195.0
Grocery:
138.2
Housing:
310.5
Utilities:
115.0
Transportation:
135.2
Health Care:
111.0
Miscellaneous:
120.3
Crime
Is Chilmark, MA a safe place to live?
Chilmark offers a safe environment, with only 70 violent crimes per 100,000 people and a low property crime rate. Residents enjoy a strong sense of security, with the chance of experiencing violent crime at just 1 in 1,430. This makes the town an appealing choice for those prioritizing safety and peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
70
Property Crimes Per 100k:
420
Crime Index:
490
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,430
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 238
Weather
What is the weather like in Chilmark, MA year-round?
Chilmark enjoys a mild coastal climate with cool winters averaging 23°F to 39°F and pleasant summers reaching up to 79°F. The area receives about 44 inches of annual rainfall and 54% of days are sunny, offering a balanced mix of seasons. This weather supports the relaxed, outdoor-oriented lifestyle typical of Martha’s Vineyard.

Winter
Min:
23°F
Max:
39°F

Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
65°F

Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
79°F

Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
44.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Chilmark residents benefit from a median household income of $88,000 and a low poverty rate of 5.8%. The community is highly educated, with over half of adults holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, and enjoys a short average commute of about 23 minutes. The area maintains a low unemployment rate and a comfortable small-town feel.
Median Income:
$59,500
Household Income:
$88,000
Family Income:
$104,500
Per Capita Income:
$57,000
Income Male:
$62,000
Income Female:
$55,000
Poverty Rate:
5.8%
Non English Speakers:
4.5%
Rent:
$2,150
Unemployment Rate:
3.7%
Public Transport Usage:
2.1%
Commute Time:
22.7 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
96.2%
Bachelors or More:
53.1%
Education
How are the schools in Chilmark, MA?
Chilmark residents have access to strong educational opportunities, including a highly-rated local public school with an excellent 7.5:1 student-teacher ratio. Private and charter school options are available nearby, and Cape Cod Community College is within commuting distance for higher education. The town’s high educational attainment supports a well-informed, engaged community.

Public Schools
Name:
Chilmark School
Street:
8 State Rd
Phone:
508-645-2562
Students:
60
Student Teacher Ratio:
7.5

Private Schools
Name:
Martha’s Vineyard Public Charter School
Street:
424 State Rd, West Tisbury, MA 02575
Phone:
508-693-9900
Students:
180

Colleges
Name:
Cape Cod Community College
City:
West Barnstable
State:
MA
Distance:
35 miles
Students:
3,000
Healthcare
Healthcare in Chilmark is well-supported, anchored by Martha's Vineyard Hospital offering comprehensive services including emergency care. With 2.9 physicians per 1,000 residents and 97.5% of people insured, access to quality medical care is readily available. The town's high healthcare index reflects strong local health resources.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Martha's Vineyard Hospital
Address:
1 Hospital Rd, Oak Bluffs, MA 02557
Phone:
(508) 693-0410
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
97.5%
Health Care Index:
79.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Chilmark, MA?
The Chilmark housing market is characterized by high property values, with a median home price of $1.8 million and most residents owning their homes. Rental options are limited, with an average two-bedroom rent of $2,150 and an owner-occupied rate of over 80%. Home values have seen steady appreciation, reflecting sustained demand in this desirable area.
Median Home Price:
$1,800,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,150
Owner Occupied Rate:
81.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Vehicle services for Chilmark residents are managed by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles, headquartered in Boston. Residents can access licensing, registration, and other DMV needs online or by phone. The state provides comprehensive resources to facilitate all motor vehicle-related processes.
State:
Massachusetts
Department:
Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles
Address:
500 Main Street, Boston, MA 02129
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.