Everything You Should Know Before Moving to New Bedford, MA
Considering a move to New Bedford, MA? With just over 101,000 residents, this historic city offers affordable living with a median home price of $349,000 and average 2-bedroom rents at $1,280. Enjoy a coastal climate with 56% sunny days and comfortable summers, plus a quick average commute of 24 minutes. While crime rates are above national averages, you'll find accessible healthcare, diverse neighborhoods, and proximity to UMass Dartmouth for higher education. Explore New Bedford’s maritime charm, multicultural vibe, and reasonable cost of living as you plan your next chapter!
Demographics - New Bedford, MA
Demographics - New Bedford, MA
New Bedford is home to just over 101,000 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of 37.9 years and a population density of 4,800 people per square mile. The city features a multicultural atmosphere, with 31% of residents speaking a language other than English and a blend of ethnic backgrounds that contribute to its vibrant character.
Population:
101,079
Density:
4,800 per sq mi
Median Age:
37.9
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
31.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
65.0%
Black:
7.9%
Asian:
1.5%
Others:
25.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in New Bedford, MA?
The cost of living in New Bedford is slightly above the national average, with a cost of living index of 109.5. Residents enjoy relatively affordable housing, as the median home value is $349,000 and average rents are about $1,280 for a two-bedroom, making it an attractive option for those seeking coastal living without Boston-level prices.
Median House Value:
$349,000
Gross Rent:
$1,280
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,700
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$570
State Taxes:
Low:
5.0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
109.5
Grocery:
106.2
Housing:
98.7
Utilities:
109.1
Transportation:
113.3
Health Care:
112.4
Miscellaneous:
105.9
Crime
Is New Bedford, MA a safe place to live?
Crime rates in New Bedford are higher than the national average, with a violent crime rate of 527 incidents per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 2,356 per 100,000. Residents should stay informed and take common-sense precautions, but many neighborhoods remain close-knit and proactive about community safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
527
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,356
Crime Index:
2,883
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 190
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 42
Weather
What is the weather like in New Bedford, MA year-round?
New Bedford experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters averaging lows around 24°F and warm, pleasant summers reaching highs of 80°F. The city enjoys 56% sunny days annually and receives nearly 50 inches of rainfall, offering a classic New England coastal climate.
Winter
Min:
24°F
Max:
38°F
Spring
Min:
43°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
80°F
Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
49.3 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
The city’s median household income is $51,600, and about 19.5% of residents live below the poverty line, reflecting a mix of working-class and diverse communities. Most residents have a high school diploma, and average commutes are under 24 minutes, making daily life convenient for local workers.
Median Income:
$28,800
Household Income:
$51,600
Family Income:
$61,300
Per Capita Income:
$26,100
Income Male:
$36,200
Income Female:
$30,900
Poverty Rate:
19.5%
Non English Speakers:
31.0%
Rent:
$1,280
Unemployment Rate:
6.3%
Public Transport Usage:
3.1%
Commute Time:
23.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
77.5%
Bachelors or More:
17.2%
Education
How are the schools in New Bedford, MA?
New Bedford offers a variety of educational opportunities, including public schools with manageable student-teacher ratios and proximity to higher education like UMass Dartmouth, just six miles away. The city’s options for public, private, and nearby colleges support lifelong learning for families and students of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Keith Middle School
Street:
225 Hathaway Blvd
Phone:
508-997-4511
Students:
1,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
New Bedford High School
Street:
230 Hathaway Blvd
Phone:
508-997-4511
Students:
2,900
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.4
Private Schools
Name:
Holy Family Holy Name School
Street:
91 Summer St
Phone:
508-993-3547
Students:
300
Colleges
Name:
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
City:
Dartmouth
State:
MA
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
8,500
Name:
Bristol Community College
City:
Fall River
State:
MA
Distance:
15 miles
Students:
10,000
Healthcare
Healthcare access in New Bedford is robust, with major hospitals like St. Luke's Hospital offering emergency services and a high rate of health insurance coverage at 94.6%. With 2.5 physicians per 1,000 residents, the city ensures quality care is within easy reach for most families.
Major Hospitals
Name:
St. Luke's Hospital
Address:
101 Page St, New Bedford, MA 02740
Phone:
(508) 997-1515
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Southcoast Health - Charlton Memorial Hospital
Address:
363 Highland Ave, Fall River, MA 02720
Phone:
(508) 679-3131
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.6%
Health Care Index:
77.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in New Bedford, MA?
New Bedford’s housing market is characterized by a median home price of $349,000 and a solid appreciation rate of 7.2% over the past year. With an owner-occupied rate of 39.8% and average rents at $1,280, the city offers a range of options for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$349,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,280
Owner Occupied Rate:
39.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Residents can access vehicle and licensing services at the local Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles branch on Theodore H. Rice Blvd. The DMV provides comprehensive support for registration, licensing, and other driving-related needs, making it convenient for those relocating to the city.
State:
Massachusetts
Department:
Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles
Address:
212 Theodore H. Rice Blvd, New Bedford, MA 02740
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.