Everything You Should Know Before Moving to South Lawrence, MA
Considering a move to South Lawrence, MA? With about 25,000 residents, the area offers affordable housing with a median home price of $382,000 and average 2-bedroom rent at $1,350. South Lawrence is a diverse, urban neighborhood with a strong cultural mix and plenty of local amenities. Commute times average 26 minutes, and Lawrence General Hospital provides local healthcare. While crime rates are above the national average, the community features vibrant schools and easy access to Greater Boston, making it a practical option for families and commuters alike.
Demographics - South Lawrence, MA
Demographics - South Lawrence, MA
South Lawrence is home to around 25,000 residents, offering a vibrant mix of cultures with over half identifying as ethnic minorities and 36% speaking a language other than English at home. The median age is 33, giving the area a youthful, family-oriented atmosphere. With a population density of 8,000 per square mile, the neighborhood has a lively urban feel.
Population:
25,000
Density:
8,000 per sq mi
Median Age:
33.4
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
36.0%

Ethnic Composition
White:
38.2%
Black:
7.1%
Asian:
2.8%
Others:
51.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in South Lawrence, MA?
The cost of living in South Lawrence is moderately higher than the national average, with a median home value of $382,000 and typical rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $1,350. Residents can expect utility and transportation expenses to be slightly above average, while state income taxes range from 5% to 9%. Overall, the area offers relatively affordable housing compared to other parts of Massachusetts.
Median House Value:
$382,000
Gross Rent:
$1,350
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,550
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,060
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$710
State Taxes:
Low:
5.0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
112.8
Grocery:
106.7
Housing:
110.2
Utilities:
114.4
Transportation:
105.5
Health Care:
108.6
Miscellaneous:
104.0
Crime
Is South Lawrence, MA a safe place to live?
Crime rates in South Lawrence are above the national average, with a 1 in 201 chance of experiencing a violent crime and a 1 in 52 chance of a property crime. While the city remains a welcoming community, new residents should be aware of these statistics and take appropriate safety precautions. Local law enforcement and neighborhood groups work actively to maintain safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
497
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,930
Crime Index:
2,427
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 201
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 52
Weather
What is the weather like in South Lawrence, MA year-round?
South Lawrence experiences four distinct seasons, with cold, snowy winters averaging lows around 20°F and warm summers reaching highs of 84°F. The area receives about 46.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 54% of the year. Residents can expect typical New England weather, including colorful autumns and crisp springs.

Winter
Min:
20°F
Max:
36°F

Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
67°F

Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
84°F

Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
46.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
The neighborhood features a median household income of $52,500 and a poverty rate of 22.4%, reflecting a diverse economic mix. The majority of residents have at least a high school diploma, with 13% holding a bachelor's degree or higher, and the average commute time is just over 26 minutes. Public transportation usage is modest, and the community has a strong sense of local identity.
Median Income:
$39,000
Household Income:
$52,500
Family Income:
$58,300
Per Capita Income:
$22,600
Income Male:
$37,300
Income Female:
$31,100
Poverty Rate:
22.4%
Non English Speakers:
36.0%
Rent:
$1,350
Unemployment Rate:
6.7%
Public Transport Usage:
7.6%
Commute Time:
26.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
74.6%
Bachelors or More:
13.1%
Education
How are the schools in South Lawrence, MA?
Education options in South Lawrence include a range of public and private schools, such as Lawrence High School with over 3,000 students and Central Catholic High School. Northern Essex Community College is located within the city, while Merrimack College is just a few miles away, offering higher education opportunities nearby. The community is supported by dedicated teachers and a variety of academic programs.

Public Schools
Name:
Arlington Middle School
Street:
150 Arlington St
Phone:
978-975-5951
Students:
925
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.4
Name:
Lawrence High School
Street:
70-71 North Parish Rd
Phone:
978-975-2750
Students:
3,200
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.7

Private Schools
Name:
Central Catholic High School
Street:
300 Hampshire St
Phone:
978-682-0260
Students:
1,200

Colleges
Name:
Northern Essex Community College
City:
Lawrence
State:
MA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
5,000
Name:
Merrimack College
City:
North Andover
State:
MA
Distance:
3 miles
Students:
5,700
Healthcare
Healthcare in South Lawrence is accessible, with Lawrence General Hospital serving as the primary facility and about 2.4 physicians per 1,000 residents. Over 90% of the population has health insurance coverage, contributing to a strong community health index. Emergency services and general medical care are readily available for residents.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Lawrence General Hospital
Address:
1 General St, Lawrence, MA 01841
Phone:
(978) 683-4000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.3%
Health Care Index:
78.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in South Lawrence, MA?
South Lawrence's housing market is marked by a median home price of $382,000 and an owner-occupied rate of 34%, indicating a strong rental market. Home values have appreciated by 6.2% over the past year, and the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $1,350. The area sees steady demand and moderate new construction activity.
Median Home Price:
$382,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,350
Owner Occupied Rate:
34.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents of South Lawrence are served by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles at 160 Winthrop Ave, Lawrence, MA. The local DMV offers convenient access to licensing and vehicle services, with additional information available on the official state website. Friendly staff and accessible hours make it easy for newcomers to manage their driving needs.
State:
Massachusetts
Department:
Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles
Address:
160 Winthrop Ave, Lawrence, MA 01843
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.