Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Lawrence, MA
Considering a move to Lawrence, MA? This vibrant city of 89,143 offers affordable living with median home prices around $381,000 and average rents at $1,380. Lawrence features a diverse, predominantly Hispanic community and a youthful median age of 33. Enjoy reasonable commute times (26 minutes), four distinct seasons, and convenient access to healthcare and public schools. While crime rates are higher than average, Lawrence’s multicultural energy, urban amenities, and proximity to colleges make it a unique choice for new residents.
Demographics - Lawrence, MA
Demographics - Lawrence, MA
Lawrence, MA is home to about 89,143 residents, featuring a youthful median age of 33 and a vibrant, diverse community where 75% speak a language other than English at home. The city has a dense urban feel, with a majority Hispanic population and a nearly balanced gender ratio. This multicultural environment offers a rich blend of traditions and perspectives for newcomers.
Population:
89,143
Density:
11,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
33.0
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
75.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
39.7%
Black:
6.6%
Asian:
2.7%
Others:
51.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Lawrence, MA?
Living in Lawrence is relatively affordable compared to the Greater Boston area, with median home values around $381,000 and average rents at $1,380. The cost of living index is slightly above the national average, reflecting higher housing and grocery costs, but utilities and transportation remain manageable. State taxes range from 5% to 9%, making it an accessible option for many households.
Median House Value:
$381,000
Gross Rent:
$1,380
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$135
Auto Insurance:
$1,540
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$640
State Taxes:
Low:
5.0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
117.0
Grocery:
112.0
Housing:
124.0
Utilities:
109.0
Transportation:
110.0
Health Care:
108.0
Miscellaneous:
106.0
Crime
Is Lawrence, MA a safe place to live?
Lawrence experiences higher-than-average crime rates, with roughly 597 violent crimes and 1,654 property crimes per 100,000 residents annually. Residents have a 1 in 167 chance of being a victim of violent crime, so it's wise to research neighborhoods and take standard safety precautions. The city is working on community initiatives to improve public safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
597
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,654
Crime Index:
2,251
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 167
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 60
Weather
What is the weather like in Lawrence, MA year-round?
Lawrence enjoys four distinct seasons, with cold, snowy winters and warm, sunny summers where highs reach the mid-80s. The city receives about 46 inches of rainfall annually and experiences sunshine 54% of the year, making it great for those who appreciate seasonal variety. Spring and fall bring moderate temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
19°F
Max:
35°F
Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
84°F
Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
46.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Neighborhoods in Lawrence reflect a strong sense of community, with a median household income of $49,200 and a relatively high poverty rate of 24.4%. Most residents rent their homes, and about 66% have at least a high school diploma. Public transportation is available, though most people face a commute of about 26 minutes.
Median Income:
$30,600
Household Income:
$49,200
Family Income:
$55,100
Per Capita Income:
$20,700
Income Male:
$31,800
Income Female:
$28,200
Poverty Rate:
24.4%
Non English Speakers:
75.0%
Rent:
$1,380
Unemployment Rate:
8.8%
Public Transport Usage:
6.3%
Commute Time:
26.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
65.9%
Bachelors or More:
12.2%
Education
How are the schools in Lawrence, MA?
Lawrence has a range of public and private schools, including Lawrence High School and several middle schools, with student-teacher ratios around 15:1. The city is close to higher education options like Northern Essex Community College and Merrimack College, supporting both traditional and adult learners. Educational attainment is growing, with just over 65% of adults holding at least a high school diploma.
Public Schools
Name:
Lawrence High School
Street:
70-71 N Parish Rd
Phone:
978-975-2750
Students:
3,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.5
Name:
Leonard Middle School
Street:
120 Reservoir St
Phone:
978-975-5957
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.2
Private Schools
Name:
Notre Dame Cristo Rey High School
Street:
303 Haverhill St
Phone:
978-689-1928
Students:
270
Colleges
Name:
Northern Essex Community College
City:
Lawrence
State:
MA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
4,800
Name:
Merrimack College
City:
North Andover
State:
MA
Distance:
4 miles
Students:
5,400
Healthcare
Lawrence offers reliable healthcare options, anchored by Lawrence General Hospital and proximity to other major facilities. The city has 2.4 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 93% health insurance coverage, ensuring accessible care for most. Emergency and general medical services are readily available in the community.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Lawrence General Hospital
Address:
1 General St, Lawrence, MA 01841
Phone:
(978) 683-4000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Holy Family Hospital - Methuen
Address:
70 East St, Methuen, MA 01844
Phone:
(978) 687-0151
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.9%
Health Care Index:
76.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Lawrence, MA?
The Lawrence housing market is characterized by a median home price of $381,000 and a low owner-occupancy rate of just under 28%. Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $1,380, with moderate home appreciation and low foreclosure rates. The rental market is active, making it suitable for both renters and buyers.
Median Home Price:
$381,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,380
Owner Occupied Rate:
27.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Vehicle services for Lawrence residents are managed by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest full-service office located in Boston. The DMV provides standard licensing, registration, and title services, and assistance is available both in person and online. Residents can access up-to-date information and schedule appointments through the state's user-friendly website.
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.