Everything You Should Know Before Moving to South Chesterfield, MA
Considering a move to South Chesterfield, MA? This friendly rural community of about 2,400 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $340,000 and rents at $1,280. Residents enjoy low crime rates, short 28-minute average commutes, and excellent public schooling. With 53% sunny days and easy access to nearby colleges and healthcare, South Chesterfield is a peaceful spot for families and professionals seeking a scenic, safe, and welcoming place to call home.
Demographics - South Chesterfield, MA
Demographics - South Chesterfield, MA
South Chesterfield is a close-knit rural community with a population of 2,400 and a median age of 44, reflecting a balanced mix of families and older adults. The area is predominantly White, with some ethnic diversity and about 7.5% of residents speaking languages other than English. Its moderate population density offers a peaceful, spacious lifestyle while remaining welcoming to newcomers.
Population:
2,400
Density:
190 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.1
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
88.2%
Black:
3.1%
Asian:
2.8%
Others:
5.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in South Chesterfield, MA?
Living in South Chesterfield is moderately affordable, with a cost of living index of 108.4—just above the national average. Median home values are around $340,000, and average rents for a two-bedroom stand at $1,280, making it accessible for both homeowners and renters. State taxes and utility costs are typical for Massachusetts, ensuring residents enjoy good value for the region.
Median House Value:
$340,000
Gross Rent:
$1,280
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,430
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,910
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$610
State Taxes:
Low:
5.0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
108.4
Grocery:
105.2
Housing:
110.5
Utilities:
116.0
Transportation:
104.8
Health Care:
107.1
Miscellaneous:
100.9
Crime
Is South Chesterfield, MA a safe place to live?
South Chesterfield boasts a low crime rate, with only 92 violent crimes and 580 property crimes per 100,000 residents, making it a safe choice for families and individuals. The chance of experiencing violent crime is just 1 in 1,087, well below national averages. This peaceful environment supports a strong sense of security and community.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
92
Property Crimes Per 100k:
580
Crime Index:
672
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,087
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 172
Weather
What is the weather like in South Chesterfield, MA year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 80°F and cold winters dipping to 16°F. The area receives about 45 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 53% of the year, ideal for those who appreciate both seasonal variety and outdoor activities. Fall foliage and spring blooms add to the town’s scenic charm.
Winter
Min:
16°F
Max:
34°F
Spring
Min:
37°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
80°F
Fall
Min:
41°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
45.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
53%
Neighbors
South Chesterfield’s households typically earn a median income of $68,700, with a relatively low poverty rate of 8.2%. Nearly 94% of adults have completed high school, and over a third hold bachelor’s degrees or higher, reflecting a well-educated and stable community. The average commute time is about 28.5 minutes, offering a blend of rural peace and regional connectivity.
Median Income:
$39,000
Household Income:
$68,700
Family Income:
$80,100
Per Capita Income:
$34,200
Income Male:
$44,200
Income Female:
$36,100
Poverty Rate:
8.2%
Non English Speakers:
7.5%
Rent:
$1,280
Unemployment Rate:
4.0%
Public Transport Usage:
1.8%
Commute Time:
28.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
93.9%
Bachelors or More:
35.4%
Education
How are the schools in South Chesterfield, MA?
South Chesterfield offers excellent public education, highlighted by Chesterfield-Goshen Elementary’s low student-teacher ratio of 11.5. Families benefit from proximity to top colleges like Smith College and UMass Amherst, both within a short drive. The area’s educational resources support learners of all ages and stages.
Public Schools
Name:
Chesterfield-Goshen Elementary School
Street:
403 Main Rd, Chesterfield, MA 01012
Phone:
413-296-0000
Students:
120
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.5
Colleges
Name:
Smith College
City:
Northampton
State:
MA
Distance:
14 miles
Students:
2,900
Name:
University of Massachusetts Amherst
City:
Amherst
State:
MA
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
31,600
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is strong, with 97% of residents insured and two major hospitals—Cooley Dickinson and Baystate Medical Center—nearby for comprehensive medical services. There are 2.7 physicians per 1,000 residents, ensuring timely care. The area’s healthcare system is reliable and well-equipped for both routine and emergency needs.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Cooley Dickinson Hospital
Address:
30 Locust St, Northampton, MA 01060
Phone:
(413) 582-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Baystate Medical Center
Address:
759 Chestnut St, Springfield, MA 01199
Phone:
(413) 794-0000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
97.0%
Health Care Index:
78.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in South Chesterfield, MA?
The housing market features a median home price of $340,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 76%, indicating community stability and investment. Rents are affordable, and the area sees steady home appreciation with low foreclosure rates. Both buyers and renters can find appealing options in this stable, growing market.
Median Home Price:
$340,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,280
Owner Occupied Rate:
76.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents are served by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles, with the main office located in Quincy and comprehensive online services available. Vehicle registration and licensing are streamlined through the state’s efficient DMV system. Support is accessible by phone or the official website, helping newcomers settle in smoothly.
State:
Massachusetts
Department:
Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles
Address:
25 Newport Ave Extension, Quincy, MA 02171
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.