Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Gloucester, MA
Considering a move to Gloucester, MA? With a population of nearly 30,000, this picturesque coastal city offers charming neighborhoods, a robust healthcare system, and a strong sense of community. Median home prices are around $585,000 and average rents run $1,650, with a cost of living above the national average but balanced by low crime rates and excellent local schools. Residents enjoy a short 27-minute average commute, a mild seaside climate, and access to both public and private educational options—making Gloucester a great choice for families and professionals seeking a vibrant yet peaceful lifestyle.
Demographics - Gloucester, MA
Demographics - Gloucester, MA
Gloucester has a population of nearly 30,000, with a median age of 48.3, reflecting a mature community. The city is predominantly White (91%), with a modest percentage of non-English speakers, creating a friendly, close-knit atmosphere for newcomers.
Population:
29,963
Density:
1,220 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.3
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
91.2%
Black:
1.2%
Asian:
1.1%
Others:
6.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Gloucester, MA?
Cost of living in Gloucester is above the national average, with a median home value of $585,000 and average rents around $1,650. Residents can expect higher-than-average housing and utility costs, balanced by competitive state tax rates and quality local amenities.
Median House Value:
$585,000
Gross Rent:
$1,650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,560
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,540
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$850
State Taxes:
Low:
5.0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
132.5
Grocery:
116.0
Housing:
147.8
Utilities:
120.2
Transportation:
123.4
Health Care:
112.2
Miscellaneous:
111.5
Crime
Is Gloucester, MA a safe place to live?
Gloucester boasts a relatively low crime rate, with a 1 in 555 chance of violent crime, making it a safe choice for families and individuals. Property crime is also below the national average, contributing to the city’s reputation for public safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
180
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,320
Crime Index:
1,500
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 555
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 76
Weather
What is the weather like in Gloucester, MA year-round?
The city experiences a classic New England climate with cold winters averaging lows in the 20s and pleasant summers reaching highs near 79°F. With 52% sunny days and nearly 50 inches of annual rainfall, Gloucester offers a mix of coastal charm and seasonal variety.

Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
38°F

Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
60°F

Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
79°F

Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
49.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
52%
Neighbors
Gloucester residents enjoy a median household income of about $81,000 and a low poverty rate of 7.8%. The area is well-educated, with over 92% holding a high school diploma and 41% possessing a bachelor's degree or higher, fostering a vibrant and engaged community.
Median Income:
$48,500
Household Income:
$80,932
Family Income:
$96,300
Per Capita Income:
$43,500
Income Male:
$53,000
Income Female:
$44,000
Poverty Rate:
7.8%
Non English Speakers:
8.2%
Rent:
$1,650
Unemployment Rate:
4.1%
Public Transport Usage:
7.7%
Commute Time:
27.4 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
92.9%
Bachelors or More:
41.0%
Education
How are the schools in Gloucester, MA?
Families in Gloucester benefit from highly rated public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios and access to private schooling options. For higher education, nearby colleges like North Shore Community College and Salem State University are just a short drive away, supporting lifelong learning opportunities.

Public Schools
Name:
Gloucester High School
Street:
32 Leslie O Johnson Rd
Phone:
978-281-9870
Students:
770
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.8
Name:
West Parish Elementary School
Street:
10 Concord St
Phone:
978-281-9835
Students:
375
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.2

Private Schools
Name:
Eastern Point Day School
Street:
8 Farrington Ave
Phone:
978-283-1700
Students:
65

Colleges
Name:
North Shore Community College
City:
Danvers
State:
MA
Distance:
12 miles
Students:
8,600
Name:
Salem State University
City:
Salem
State:
MA
Distance:
16 miles
Students:
7,700
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is excellent, with two major hospitals nearby and a high rate of health insurance coverage at 97.6%. Residents benefit from a strong local network of physicians, ensuring quality medical care close to home.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Addison Gilbert Hospital
Address:
298 Washington St, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone:
(978) 283-4000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Beverly Hospital
Address:
85 Herrick St, Beverly, MA 01915
Phone:
(978) 922-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
97.6%
Health Care Index:
78.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Gloucester, MA?
The housing market in Gloucester features a median home price of $585,000 and a healthy home appreciation rate of 7.1% over the past year. Most residents own their homes, and rental vacancies remain low, reflecting steady demand and a stable market.
Median Home Price:
$585,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,650
Owner Occupied Rate:
62.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
DMV services are provided by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest full-service branch in Boston. Residents can access licensing, registration, and vehicle services both in person and online through the state’s convenient portal.
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.