Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Lee, MA
Considering a move to Lee, MA? With a friendly population of 5,788, Lee offers small-town charm, affordable housing with a median home price around $323,000, and average 2-bedroom rents near $1,200. The area boasts low violent crime rates, a short 21-minute average commute, and access to quality local schools. Residents enjoy four true seasons, strong health care options nearby, and a relaxed lifestyle in the heart of the Berkshires—making Lee a wonderful choice for families, retirees, or anyone seeking a peaceful New England town.
Demographics - Lee, MA
Lee, MA is a close-knit community of 5,788 residents, where the median age is 48.1, reflecting a mature population. The town is predominantly White, with a small but diverse mix of other backgrounds, and about 8.5% speak a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density and balanced gender ratio contribute to a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere.
Population:
5,788
Density:
190 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.1
Gender Ratio:
91 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
92.1%
Black:
1.8%
Asian:
1.3%
Others:
4.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Lee, MA?
Living in Lee is relatively affordable for Massachusetts, with a median home value of $323,000 and average rents around $1,200 for a two-bedroom. The overall cost of living index is 110.3, slightly above the national average, driven mostly by housing and utilities. State taxes range from 5.0% to 9.0%, making budgeting predictable for new residents.
Median House Value:
$323,000
Gross Rent:
$1,200
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,180
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,690
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$620
State Taxes:
Low:
5.0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
110.3
Grocery:
106.5
Housing:
112.2
Utilities:
105.5
Transportation:
104.8
Health Care:
107.3
Miscellaneous:
108.6
Crime
Is Lee, MA a safe place to live?
Lee is a safe place to live, with violent crime rates notably low at 123 incidents per 100,000 people and a 1 in 813 chance of being a victim. Property crime is moderate, with a 1 in 94 chance, allowing families and individuals to feel secure. The town's overall crime index is well below urban averages, supporting a peaceful lifestyle.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
123
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,059
Crime Index:
1,182
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 813
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 94
Weather
What is the weather like in Lee, MA year-round?
Lee experiences all four seasons, with warm summers peaking around 80°F and cold winters dipping to 15°F. The area receives about 45.6 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 52% of the year. This climate offers opportunities for year-round outdoor activities and beautiful seasonal changes.
Winter
Min:
15°F
Max:
34°F
Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
64°F
Summer
Min:
57°F
Max:
80°F
Fall
Min:
39°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
45.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
52%
Neighbors
Residents of Lee enjoy a median household income of $63,700 and a family income of $77,200, helping support a comfortable lifestyle. The poverty rate is 10.9%, and most adults hold at least a high school diploma, reflecting a well-educated community. Commute times are short, averaging just under 21 minutes, and public transportation use is minimal.
Median Income:
$36,400
Household Income:
$63,700
Family Income:
$77,200
Per Capita Income:
$34,300
Income Male:
$45,000
Income Female:
$33,400
Poverty Rate:
10.9%
Non English Speakers:
8.5%
Rent:
$1,200
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.9%
Commute Time:
20.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
90.6%
Bachelors or More:
32.1%
Education
How are the schools in Lee, MA?
Lee offers strong educational opportunities with well-rated public schools featuring low student-teacher ratios, such as Lee Elementary and Lee Middle and High School. Private and alternative schooling options are available in the region, and higher education is accessible at nearby Berkshire Community College and Williams College. The community values learning, with over 90% of adults holding at least a high school diploma.
Public Schools
Name:
Lee Elementary School
Street:
310 Greylock St
Phone:
413-243-0336
Students:
370
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.4
Name:
Lee Middle and High School
Street:
300 Greylock St
Phone:
413-243-2780
Students:
375
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.7
Private Schools
Name:
Berkshire Waldorf High School
Street:
14 Pine St, Stockbridge
Phone:
413-298-3800
Students:
70
Colleges
Name:
Berkshire Community College
City:
Pittsfield
State:
MA
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
1,700
Name:
Williams College
City:
Williamstown
State:
MA
Distance:
28 miles
Students:
2,100
Healthcare
Lee residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Berkshire Medical Center and Fairview Hospital nearby. There are 2.5 physicians per 1,000 people, and 97.2% of residents have health insurance coverage. The area offers robust emergency and general medical services for families and seniors alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Berkshire Medical Center
Address:
725 North St, Pittsfield, MA 01201
Phone:
(413) 447-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Fairview Hospital
Address:
29 Lewis Ave, Great Barrington, MA 01230
Phone:
(413) 528-8600
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
97.2%
Health Care Index:
77.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Lee, MA?
Lee’s housing market is stable, with a median home price of $323,000 and a healthy owner-occupancy rate of 67.8%. Renters pay around $1,200 for a two-bedroom, and the area has a low foreclosure rate of 0.3%. The town is experiencing modest home appreciation, making it attractive for buyers and investors.
Median Home Price:
$323,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,200
Owner Occupied Rate:
67.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.4%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Lee residents are served by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles branch in nearby Pittsfield. This office offers full DMV services such as licensing, registration, and vehicle titling, with convenient access and online resources. The state’s DMV website provides helpful information for new and existing drivers.
State:
Massachusetts
Department:
Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles
Address:
333 East St, Pittsfield, MA 01201
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.