Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Nantucket, MA
Considering a move to Nantucket, MA? This charming island town offers a close-knit population of 14,255 and boasts scenic coastal living with a median home price around $1.55 million and average rents of $2,600. Nantucket is known for its low crime rates (68 violent crimes per 100K) and quick commutes (about 10 minutes), while residents enjoy excellent schools, high educational attainment, and mild summers. Discover why Nantucket’s mix of seaside charm, safety, and quality of life attracts residents year-round.
Demographics - Nantucket, MA
Demographics - Nantucket, MA
Nantucket is home to 14,255 residents, with a median age of 42.8, reflecting a mature and diverse community. The population density is moderate at 230 people per square mile, and nearly 18% of residents speak a language other than English, contributing to the town’s vibrant cultural mix.
Population:
14,255
Density:
230 per sq mi
Median Age:
42.8
Gender Ratio:
104 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
17.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
76.4%
Black:
7.7%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
14.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Nantucket, MA?
Nantucket has a notably high cost of living, with a median home value of $1.55 million and average rents around $2,600 per month. Expenses for groceries, housing, and utilities are well above national averages, making it an upscale choice for those considering a move.
Median House Value:
$1,550,000
Gross Rent:
$2,600
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$185
Auto Insurance:
$2,200
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,800
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$1,150
State Taxes:
Low:
5.0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
209.0
Grocery:
148.0
Housing:
321.0
Utilities:
116.0
Transportation:
138.0
Health Care:
122.0
Miscellaneous:
128.0
Crime
Is Nantucket, MA a safe place to live?
Nantucket offers a safe living environment, reporting only 68 violent crimes and 1,015 property crimes per 100,000 residents annually. The chance of experiencing violent crime is low, at about 1 in 1,470, making it an appealing destination for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
68
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,015
Crime Index:
1,083
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,470
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 98
Weather
What is the weather like in Nantucket, MA year-round?
Residents experience mild, ocean-moderated weather, with summer highs averaging 78°F and winter lows rarely dropping below 25°F. The island sees about 45.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 55% of the year, ideal for those seeking a temperate coastal climate.
Winter
Min:
25°F
Max:
40°F
Spring
Min:
40°F
Max:
60°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
78°F
Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
45.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
55%
Neighbors
With a median household income of $107,500 and a poverty rate of just over 8%, Nantucket residents enjoy economic stability. High educational attainment and an average commute of just 10 minutes add to the quality of life, while a small portion (3.2%) uses public transportation.
Median Income:
$56,000
Household Income:
$107,500
Family Income:
$120,800
Per Capita Income:
$54,400
Income Male:
$60,000
Income Female:
$48,000
Poverty Rate:
8.1%
Non English Speakers:
17.5%
Rent:
$2,600
Unemployment Rate:
3.9%
Public Transport Usage:
3.2%
Commute Time:
10.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
93.6%
Bachelors or More:
48.2%
Education
How are the schools in Nantucket, MA?
The island’s schools are highly rated, with public institutions like Nantucket High School maintaining low student-teacher ratios and strong academic programs. Private education and nearby higher education options, such as Cape Cod Community College, further enhance learning opportunities for residents.
Public Schools
Name:
Nantucket High School
Street:
10 Surfside Rd
Phone:
508-228-7280
Students:
540
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.5
Name:
Cyrus Peirce Middle School
Street:
10 Surfside Rd
Phone:
508-228-7283
Students:
340
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.1
Private Schools
Name:
Nantucket New School
Street:
15 Nobadeer Farm Rd
Phone:
508-228-8569
Students:
120
Colleges
Name:
Cape Cod Community College (Hyannis Center)
City:
Hyannis
State:
MA
Distance:
30 miles (by ferry and car)
Students:
3,000
Healthcare
Nantucket residents have access to quality healthcare, anchored by Nantucket Cottage Hospital and a high rate of health insurance coverage at 96.2%. The area offers about 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents, ensuring timely and comprehensive medical services.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Nantucket Cottage Hospital
Address:
57 Prospect St, Nantucket, MA 02554
Phone:
(508) 825-8100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
96.2%
Health Care Index:
77.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Nantucket, MA?
Nantucket’s housing market is robust, with a median home price of $1.55 million and steady appreciation rates above 7% annually. Owner-occupancy is high at over 74%, while the rental vacancy rate remains moderate, reflecting strong demand for both buying and renting.
Median Home Price:
$1,550,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,600
Owner Occupied Rate:
74.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.4%
New Construction Rate:
2.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Nantucket drivers are served locally by a branch of the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles at 16 Broad St, offering convenient access to vehicle services without leaving the island.
State:
Massachusetts
Department:
Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles
Address:
16 Broad St, Nantucket, MA 02554
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.