Everything You Should Know Before Moving to New Ashford, MA
Considering a move to New Ashford, MA? This quiet Berkshires town has a population of 228 and offers affordable living with median home prices around $315,000 and average rents of $1,350. Residents enjoy exceptionally low crime rates, short 28-minute commutes, and a tranquil, natural setting with four true seasons. With high educational attainment, excellent local schools, and easy access to nearby colleges and healthcare, New Ashford is an ideal spot for those seeking rural charm and a peaceful lifestyle.
Demographics - New Ashford, MA
Demographics - New Ashford, MA
New Ashford is a small, rural town with a population of just 228 people, featuring a median age of 48.2 and a predominantly White community. The low population density and near-equal gender ratio create a quiet, close-knit atmosphere. Only a small percentage of residents speak a language other than English at home, reflecting the town’s traditional New England character.
Population:
228
Density:
18 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.2
Gender Ratio:
102 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
94.5%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.9%
Others:
4.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in New Ashford, MA?
The cost of living in New Ashford is moderately high, with a cost of living index of 120.3 and median home values at $315,000. Housing and utilities are above national averages, but residents benefit from relatively affordable rents and manageable state tax rates. This balance makes the town appealing for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle without big-city expenses.
Median House Value:
$315,000
Gross Rent:
$1,350
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$160
Auto Insurance:
$1,250
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,650
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$700
State Taxes:
Low:
5.0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
120.3
Grocery:
112.4
Housing:
125.1
Utilities:
120.2
Transportation:
115.6
Health Care:
111.9
Miscellaneous:
108.0
Crime
Is New Ashford, MA a safe place to live?
New Ashford boasts exceptionally low crime rates, with only 30 violent crimes and 210 property crimes per 100,000 residents, making it one of the safest communities in the area. Residents face a very low chance of being affected by crime, contributing to the town’s peaceful reputation. Safety is a major draw for families and retirees considering the area.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
30
Property Crimes Per 100k:
210
Crime Index:
240
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 3,300
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 485
Weather
What is the weather like in New Ashford, MA year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with cold, snowy winters averaging lows of 14°F and warm, pleasant summers reaching highs of 79°F. The area receives about 46 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine roughly 52% of the year. This climate offers a classic New England experience with vibrant fall foliage and crisp seasonal changes.
Winter
Min:
14°F
Max:
32°F
Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
55°F
Max:
79°F
Fall
Min:
36°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
46.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
52%
Neighbors
The local community enjoys a median household income of $82,500 and a low poverty rate of 7.9%, reflecting financial stability. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, with 36% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. Commute times average about 28 minutes, and public transport is rarely used, underscoring the town’s rural, self-reliant character.
Median Income:
$42,000
Household Income:
$82,500
Family Income:
$92,000
Per Capita Income:
$38,000
Income Male:
$48,000
Income Female:
$41,000
Poverty Rate:
7.9%
Non English Speakers:
3.2%
Rent:
$1,350
Unemployment Rate:
4.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
28.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
95.0%
Bachelors or More:
36.0%
Education
How are the schools in New Ashford, MA?
Families in New Ashford benefit from small class sizes at local public schools and several private school options. The town is conveniently located near highly regarded institutions like Williams College and Berkshire Community College, making higher education easily accessible. This strong educational environment supports lifelong learning and student success.
Public Schools
Name:
Lanesborough Elementary School
Street:
188 Summer St, Lanesborough, MA 01237
Phone:
413-442-1167
Students:
210
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.5
Private Schools
Name:
Pine Cobble School
Street:
163 Gale Rd, Williamstown, MA 01267
Phone:
413-458-4680
Students:
145
Colleges
Name:
Williams College
City:
Williamstown
State:
MA
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
2,200
Name:
Berkshire Community College
City:
Pittsfield
State:
MA
Distance:
14 miles
Students:
2,000
Healthcare
New Ashford residents have access to quality healthcare, with Berkshire Medical Center nearby and 2.3 physicians per 1,000 people. Health insurance coverage is high at 96%, and the town maintains a strong healthcare index. Emergency medical services are readily available, providing peace of mind for families and seniors.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Berkshire Medical Center
Address:
725 North St, Pittsfield, MA 01201
Phone:
(413) 447-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
96.0%
Health Care Index:
77.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in New Ashford, MA?
The housing market in New Ashford is dominated by owner-occupied homes, with an 87% ownership rate and a median home price of $315,000. The rental vacancy rate is low at 3.1%, and home values have appreciated by over 7% in the past year. These factors indicate a stable and desirable real estate environment for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$315,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,350
Owner Occupied Rate:
87.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
3.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles, located in Boston or online. The DMV offers comprehensive services and resources for drivers statewide. Access to state-level DMV offices ensures residents can efficiently manage their transportation needs.
State:
Massachusetts
Department:
Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1010 Massachusetts Ave, Boston, MA 02118
Phone:
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.