Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Orleans, MA
Considering a move to Orleans, MA? This charming Cape Cod town of about 5,800 residents offers coastal tranquility, a high median home price of $670,000, and a cost of living above national averages. Enjoy safe neighborhoods with low crime rates (85 violent crimes per 100K) and short, breezy commutes averaging 21 minutes. Orleans boasts top-rated schools, a well-educated community, and mild summers perfect for outdoor living—making it a standout destination for those seeking a peaceful, seaside lifestyle.
Demographics - Orleans, MA
Demographics - Orleans, MA
Orleans, MA is a small coastal community with around 5,800 residents, characterized by a predominantly older population with a median age nearing 60. The town is largely White, and about 8% of residents speak a language other than English at home, reflecting a modest level of diversity. The balanced gender ratio and low population density contribute to its relaxed, close-knit atmosphere.
Population:
5,800
Density:
400 per sq mi
Median Age:
59.7
Gender Ratio:
90 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.3%
Ethnic Composition
White:
92.2%
Black:
1.4%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
5.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Orleans, MA?
Living in Orleans comes with a higher cost of living, as reflected in the median home value of $670,000 and a cost of living index significantly above the national average. Housing and groceries are especially expensive, so new residents should expect to budget accordingly. State taxes range from 5% to 9%, and typical monthly expenses like rent and utilities are also elevated compared to many other areas.
Median House Value:
$670,000
Gross Rent:
$1,850
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$160
Auto Insurance:
$1,400
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,600
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$950
State Taxes:
Low:
5.0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
143.0
Grocery:
125.0
Housing:
168.0
Utilities:
120.0
Transportation:
132.0
Health Care:
116.0
Miscellaneous:
110.0
Crime
Is Orleans, MA a safe place to live?
Orleans is considered a safe community, with just 85 violent crimes and 690 property crimes per 100,000 residents annually. The odds of experiencing a violent crime are low, at about 1 in 1,180. These low crime rates make Orleans an attractive choice for families and retirees seeking peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
85
Property Crimes Per 100k:
690
Crime Index:
775
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,180
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 145
Weather
What is the weather like in Orleans, MA year-round?
Orleans enjoys mild, pleasant summers with average highs in the upper 70s, and winters that are chilly but not extreme, with lows in the 20s. The town receives nearly 48 inches of rainfall each year and has a fair number of sunny days, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The four distinct seasons provide a classic New England climate perfect for those who appreciate seasonal changes.
Winter
Min:
23°F
Max:
38°F
Spring
Min:
40°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
78°F
Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
The community in Orleans is well-educated, with over half of adults holding a bachelor’s degree or higher and a high school graduation rate above 96%. Median household income is solid at $85,200, and the poverty rate is below 8%. Residents enjoy short commutes and a low unemployment rate, contributing to a stable and comfortable lifestyle.
Median Income:
$40,500
Household Income:
$85,200
Family Income:
$98,900
Per Capita Income:
$55,100
Income Male:
$60,000
Income Female:
$46,800
Poverty Rate:
7.9%
Non English Speakers:
8.3%
Rent:
$1,850
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
1.2%
Commute Time:
21.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
96.1%
Bachelors or More:
54.0%
Education
How are the schools in Orleans, MA?
Orleans supports strong public education through its local elementary, middle, and regional high schools, all featuring low student-teacher ratios for personalized learning. Private and charter school options are also available nearby, and higher education is accessible at Cape Cod Community College just 23 miles away. The town’s focus on education is reflected in its well-educated population and quality school choices.
Public Schools
Name:
Orleans Elementary School
Street:
46 Eldredge Park Way
Phone:
508-255-0380
Students:
260
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.9
Name:
Nauset Regional Middle School
Street:
70 MA-28
Phone:
508-255-0016
Students:
640
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.6
Name:
Nauset Regional High School
Street:
100 Cable Rd, Eastham
Phone:
508-255-1505
Students:
900
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.1
Private Schools
Name:
Cape Cod Lighthouse Charter School
Street:
195 MA-137, Harwich
Phone:
508-432-4500
Students:
300
Colleges
Name:
Cape Cod Community College
City:
West Barnstable
State:
MA
Distance:
23 miles
Students:
3,500
Healthcare
Orleans residents have access to quality healthcare, with major facilities like Cape Cod Hospital nearby and a local primary care center within town. The area boasts a high rate of health insurance coverage at over 96%, and a strong physician-to-resident ratio ensures accessible care. Healthcare services are comprehensive, supporting both emergency and routine needs.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Cape Cod Hospital
Address:
27 Park St, Hyannis, MA 02601
Phone:
(508) 771-1800
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Outer Cape Health Services
Address:
42 Route 6A, Orleans, MA 02653
Phone:
(508) 255-0111
Type:
Primary Care & Urgent Care
Emergency Services:
No
Physicians Per 1000:
2.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
96.4%
Health Care Index:
78.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Orleans, MA?
The Orleans housing market is marked by high demand, with a median home price of $670,000 and most residents owning their homes. Rental options are available, with average rents for a two-bedroom at $1,850, and the market has seen steady appreciation. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates reflect a stable and desirable place to invest in property.
Median Home Price:
$670,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,850
Owner Occupied Rate:
84.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Vehicle services for Orleans residents are provided by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest branch located in Brockton. The RMV offers essential licensing, registration, and title services both in-person and online. Residents can find more information and manage appointments via the official state website.
State:
Massachusetts
Department:
Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles
Address:
75 Commercial St, Brockton, MA 02302
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.