Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Needham, MA
Considering a move to Needham, MA? With a population of 32,091, Needham offers an outstanding quality of life, highlighted by top-rated public schools, very low crime rates, and a highly educated community. Home prices are above the national average at $1,050,000, and rent for a two-bedroom averages $2,700, reflecting its desirability and proximity to Boston. Residents enjoy a typical commute of about 31 minutes, a strong healthcare system, and four-season New England weather with 54% sunny days. If you value safety, excellent schools, and a vibrant suburban atmosphere, Needham is an ideal place to call home.
Demographics - Needham, MA
Demographics - Needham, MA
Needham is home to approximately 32,000 residents, with a median age of 43.1, reflecting a mature and family-oriented community. The city is predominantly White (82.5%) but also features a notable Asian presence (10.8%) and a diverse mix of other backgrounds, with over 15% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. The balanced gender ratio and moderate population density create a welcoming suburban environment.
Population:
32,091
Density:
2,610 per sq mi
Median Age:
43.1
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
15.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
82.5%
Black:
2.1%
Asian:
10.8%
Others:
4.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Needham, MA?
The cost of living in Needham is significantly higher than the national average, with a median home value of $1,050,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $2,700. Everyday expenses such as groceries, healthcare, and utilities are also elevated, reflecting the town’s desirability and proximity to Boston. High state taxes and a cost of living index of 162 highlight the premium lifestyle offered in this community.
Median House Value:
$1,050,000
Gross Rent:
$2,700
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$160
Auto Insurance:
$1,610
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$1,100
State Taxes:
Low:
5%
|
High:
9%
Cost Of Living Index:
162.0
Grocery:
128.0
Housing:
239.0
Utilities:
116.0
Transportation:
124.0
Health Care:
114.0
Miscellaneous:
110.0
Crime
Is Needham, MA a safe place to live?
Needham boasts very low crime rates, with just 23 violent crimes and 442 property crimes per 100,000 residents, making it one of the safer suburbs in the Boston area. The chance of experiencing a violent crime is just 1 in 4,350, providing peace of mind for families and individuals alike. The community’s strong safety record is a major draw for those seeking a secure place to live.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
23
Property Crimes Per 100k:
442
Crime Index:
465
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 4,350
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 226
Weather
What is the weather like in Needham, MA year-round?
Needham experiences classic New England weather with cold winters averaging lows of 20°F and warm summers reaching highs of 83°F. The city receives about 46 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys 54% sunny days, offering residents a true four-season climate. Spring and fall bring mild, comfortable temperatures ideal for outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
20°F
Max:
37°F
Spring
Min:
40°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
46.3 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Needham is an affluent suburb, with a median household income of $175,000 and a low poverty rate of 3.2%. The community is highly educated, with over 80% holding at least a bachelor’s degree, and enjoys low unemployment around 2.8%. Residents benefit from a strong sense of stability, short commutes averaging 31 minutes, and convenient access to public transportation.
Median Income:
$70,000
Household Income:
$175,000
Family Income:
$210,000
Per Capita Income:
$77,000
Income Male:
$95,000
Income Female:
$70,000
Poverty Rate:
3.2%
Non English Speakers:
15.2%
Rent:
$2,700
Unemployment Rate:
2.8%
Public Transport Usage:
15.4%
Commute Time:
30.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
97.5%
Bachelors or More:
80.1%
Education
How are the schools in Needham, MA?
Needham is renowned for its top-rated public schools, including Needham High School and Pollard Middle School, both known for low student-teacher ratios and strong academic outcomes. The town also offers private education options and is close to prestigious colleges like Babson College and Boston College. High educational attainment among residents underscores the community’s commitment to learning and achievement.
Public Schools
Name:
Needham High School
Street:
609 Webster St
Phone:
781-455-0800
Students:
1,700
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
Pollard Middle School
Street:
200 Harris Ave
Phone:
781-455-0480
Students:
950
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.8
Private Schools
Name:
St. Joseph Elementary School
Street:
90 Pickering St
Phone:
781-444-4459
Students:
370
Colleges
Name:
Babson College
City:
Wellesley
State:
MA
Distance:
3 miles
Students:
3,350
Name:
Boston College
City:
Chestnut Hill
State:
MA
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
14,600
Healthcare
Healthcare in Needham is robust, anchored by Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital-Needham and supported by a high ratio of 3.5 physicians per 1,000 residents. Nearly all residents (97%) have health insurance, ensuring broad access to medical services. The area’s healthcare index reflects both quality and accessibility for families and individuals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital-Needham
Address:
148 Chestnut St, Needham, MA 02492
Phone:
(781) 453-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
97.1%
Health Care Index:
76.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Needham, MA?
Needham’s housing market is characterized by high values and strong demand, with the median home price at $1,050,000 and owner-occupied homes making up more than 80% of the market. Rental vacancy rates are low at 3.1%, and home values have appreciated by over 6% in the past year. This stable and competitive market is attractive for both buyers and long-term homeowners.
Median Home Price:
$1,050,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,700
Owner Occupied Rate:
82.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
3.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Residents of Needham are served by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles, located in nearby Boston. Services such as licensing, registration, and vehicle titling are easily accessible both in person and online. The RMV provides comprehensive support for all driver and vehicle needs within the state.
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.