Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Fairhaven, MA
Considering a move to Fairhaven, MA? With a population of just under 16,000, Fairhaven offers a cozy coastal vibe, attractive median home prices around $389,000, and rent averaging $1,350. Residents enjoy a moderate cost of living, low crime rates (201 violent crimes per 100K), and a manageable 27-minute average commute. The town boasts strong public schools, plenty of sunny days (54%), and convenient access to healthcare and local colleges—making it a great option for families and professionals alike.
Demographics - Fairhaven, MA
Demographics - Fairhaven, MA
Fairhaven is home to nearly 16,000 residents, with a population density of 1,260 people per square mile and a median age of 47.1 years, reflecting a mature and well-established community. The town is predominantly White, with small but present Black, Asian, and other minority populations, and about 6.5% of residents speak a language other than English at home. The gender ratio is relatively balanced, and the area offers a welcoming environment for diverse backgrounds.
Population:
15,924
Density:
1,260 per sq mi
Median Age:
47.1
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
90.2%
Black:
2.1%
Asian:
1.4%
Others:
6.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Fairhaven, MA?
Fairhaven's cost of living is moderately above the national average, with a median home value of $389,000 and typical rent around $1,350 per month. Utility and insurance costs are in line with regional expectations, and Massachusetts state taxes range from 5% to 9%. Overall, the town offers a balanced lifestyle for those seeking coastal living with manageable expenses.
Median House Value:
$389,000
Gross Rent:
$1,350
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,600
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,045
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$715
State Taxes:
Low:
5.0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
116.7
Grocery:
112.0
Housing:
118.5
Utilities:
108.3
Transportation:
113.9
Health Care:
105.4
Miscellaneous:
106.8
Crime
Is Fairhaven, MA a safe place to live?
Fairhaven enjoys relatively low crime rates compared to national averages, with just 201 violent crimes and 1,246 property crimes per 100,000 residents annually. The chance of experiencing a violent crime is about 1 in 497, helping to foster a sense of safety and security for families and individuals. This makes Fairhaven an appealing choice for those prioritizing peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
201
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,246
Crime Index:
1,447
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 497
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 80
Weather
What is the weather like in Fairhaven, MA year-round?
Residents of Fairhaven experience four distinct seasons, with mild summers averaging highs of 81°F and cool winters with lows around 23°F. The area receives about 51.6 inches of rainfall annually and sees sunshine 54% of the year, making it ideal for those who enjoy a balance of sunny and rainy days. This coastal New England climate supports a variety of outdoor activities year-round.

Winter
Min:
23°F
Max:
39°F

Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
66°F

Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
81°F

Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
51.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
The community features a median household income of $73,400 and a low poverty rate of 7.9%, reflecting economic stability. Most residents have at least a high school education, with nearly 29% holding a bachelor's degree or higher, and the average commute time is about 27 minutes. Low public transit usage and a modest unemployment rate contribute to a suburban, family-friendly atmosphere.
Median Income:
$38,200
Household Income:
$73,400
Family Income:
$98,700
Per Capita Income:
$39,400
Income Male:
$49,800
Income Female:
$40,200
Poverty Rate:
7.9%
Non English Speakers:
6.5%
Rent:
$1,350
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
1.2%
Commute Time:
27.4 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
92.3%
Bachelors or More:
28.7%
Education
How are the schools in Fairhaven, MA?
Fairhaven offers strong educational opportunities through its public schools, such as Fairhaven High School and Leroy Wood Elementary, which feature favorable student-teacher ratios. The area is also close to higher education institutions like the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and Bristol Community College. This access to quality K–12 and collegiate education supports both families and lifelong learners.

Public Schools
Name:
Fairhaven High School
Street:
12 Huttleston Ave
Phone:
508-979-4052
Students:
635
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.5
Name:
Leroy Wood Elementary School
Street:
60 Sconticut Neck Rd
Phone:
508-979-4073
Students:
510
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.2

Private Schools
Name:
Saint Joseph School
Street:
100 Spring St
Phone:
508-996-1983
Students:
165

Colleges
Name:
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
City:
Dartmouth
State:
MA
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
8,513
Name:
Bristol Community College
City:
New Bedford
State:
MA
Distance:
4 miles
Students:
5,660
Healthcare
Fairhaven offers convenient access to quality healthcare, including major facilities like St. Luke’s Hospital and local urgent care options. With 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and a high health insurance coverage rate of 97.2%, medical services are both accessible and reliable. The area’s strong healthcare resources support a healthy, well-cared-for population.

Major Hospitals
Name:
St. Luke's Hospital
Address:
101 Page St, New Bedford, MA 02740
Phone:
(508) 997-1515
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Southcoast Health Urgent Care - Fairhaven
Address:
208 Mill Rd, Fairhaven, MA 02719
Phone:
(774) 206-5040
Type:
Urgent Care
Emergency Services:
No
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
97.2%
Health Care Index:
77.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Fairhaven, MA?
Fairhaven's housing market is characterized by a median home price of $389,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $1,350. The town has a high owner-occupied rate of 71.7% and a steady 6.2% annual home appreciation, indicating a stable and desirable real estate environment. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates further enhance the appeal for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$389,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,350
Owner Occupied Rate:
71.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Residents can access the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles at a convenient Fairhaven location, providing full DMV services locally. The office offers assistance with licensing, registration, and vehicle-related needs, making it easy for newcomers to get settled. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit the official state DMV website.
State:
Massachusetts
Department:
Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles
Address:
3 New Bedford Road, Fairhaven, MA 02719
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.