Everything You Should Know Before Moving to South Orleans, MA
Considering a move to South Orleans, MA? This charming Cape Cod village has a population of around 1,200 and boasts a tranquil, coastal lifestyle. The median home price is $695,000, with rents averaging $2,200—reflective of the area’s high desirability. Residents enjoy low crime rates (violent crime just 85 per 100K), short 22.5-minute commutes, and top-notch public schools. With over 56% sunny days, easy access to beaches, and a highly educated community, South Orleans is perfect for those seeking safety, natural beauty, and a relaxed pace of life.
Demographics - South Orleans, MA
Demographics - South Orleans, MA
South Orleans is a close-knit community of about 1,200 residents, with a median age of 56.7, reflecting its appeal to retirees and those seeking a quieter lifestyle. The population is predominantly White at 93.5%, and about 7.5% speak a language other than English at home, indicating a largely homogenous but welcoming environment.
Population:
1,200
Density:
320 per sq mi
Median Age:
56.7
Gender Ratio:
90 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
93.5%
Black:
1.2%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
4.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in South Orleans, MA?
The cost of living in South Orleans is notably high, with a cost of living index of 142 and a median home price of $695,000, making it one of the more expensive areas in Massachusetts. Residents can expect higher-than-average costs for housing and groceries, but the investment is offset by the area’s coastal charm and quality of life.
Median House Value:
$695,000
Gross Rent:
$2,200
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$175
Auto Insurance:
$1,450
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,100
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$950
State Taxes:
Low:
5.0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
142.0
Grocery:
123.0
Housing:
168.0
Utilities:
119.0
Transportation:
113.0
Health Care:
116.0
Miscellaneous:
108.0
Crime
Is South Orleans, MA a safe place to live?
South Orleans boasts a very low crime rate, with only 85 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and property crime chances at just 1 in 194, providing a safe environment for families and retirees. This low risk contributes to the area’s reputation for peace of mind and community security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
85
Property Crimes Per 100k:
620
Crime Index:
705
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,175
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 194
Weather
What is the weather like in South Orleans, MA year-round?
Residents enjoy a mild coastal climate, with summer highs around 79°F and winter lows rarely dipping below 23°F. The town experiences about 56% sunny days annually and nearly 48 inches of rainfall, making it ideal for those who appreciate temperate seasons and outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
23°F
Max:
39°F
Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
79°F
Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
The community features a median household income of $88,500 and a low poverty rate of 7.8%, reflecting financial stability among residents. Education levels are high, with over half holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, and the average commute is a manageable 22.5 minutes.
Median Income:
$44,000
Household Income:
$88,500
Family Income:
$104,000
Per Capita Income:
$53,000
Income Male:
$54,500
Income Female:
$46,800
Poverty Rate:
7.8%
Non English Speakers:
7.5%
Rent:
$2,200
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
1.2%
Commute Time:
22.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
96.1%
Bachelors or More:
52.4%
Education
How are the schools in South Orleans, MA?
Families in South Orleans benefit from highly rated public schools such as Orleans Elementary and Nauset Regional Middle, both known for low student-teacher ratios. The area is also served by nearby private schools and Cape Cod Community College, supporting lifelong learning opportunities.
Public Schools
Name:
Orleans Elementary School
Street:
46 Eldredge Park Way
Phone:
508-255-0380
Students:
210
Student Teacher Ratio:
9.6
Name:
Nauset Regional Middle School
Street:
70 MA-28, Orleans
Phone:
508-255-1505
Students:
670
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.1
Private Schools
Name:
Cape Cod Lighthouse Charter School
Street:
195 MA-137, East Harwich
Phone:
508-432-4500
Students:
250
Colleges
Name:
Cape Cod Community College
City:
West Barnstable
State:
MA
Distance:
22 miles
Students:
3,000
Healthcare
South Orleans residents have access to quality care with Cape Cod Hospital and local clinics nearby, and an impressive 96.8% health insurance coverage rate. The area enjoys a high physician density and reliable healthcare services, contributing to overall well-being.
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:
Community Health Center
Emergency Services:
No
Physicians Per 1000:
3.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
96.8%
Health Care Index:
81.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in South Orleans, MA?
The housing market in South Orleans is robust, with a median home price of $695,000 and 77.5% owner-occupied homes, signaling strong demand and community stability. The area also benefits from a low foreclosure rate and healthy home appreciation, making it attractive for long-term investment.
Median Home Price:
$695,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,200
Owner Occupied Rate:
77.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents of South Orleans are served by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles, offering comprehensive licensing and vehicle services. The nearest branch is in Amherst, with helpful resources available online and by phone for convenience.
State:
Massachusetts
Department:
Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles
Address:
101 University Dr, Amherst, MA 01002
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.