Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Southbridge, MA
Considering a move to Southbridge, MA? This friendly town of 17,740 features affordable living with median home prices around $285,000 and average rents near $1,180. Residents enjoy a modest cost of living, a 25-minute average commute, and access to local healthcare at UMass Memorial Health – Harrington Hospital. While crime rates are a bit above national averages, Southbridge offers walkable neighborhoods, public schools, and four distinct New England seasons—making it a solid choice for those seeking small-town charm with city conveniences.
Demographics - Southbridge, MA
Demographics - Southbridge, MA
Southbridge is a diverse town of 17,740 residents, with a median age just under 40 and a balanced gender ratio. The community is predominantly White, but nearly a quarter of residents speak a language other than English at home, reflecting its cultural variety. With a moderate population density, Southbridge offers a blend of small-town atmosphere and vibrant local life.
Population:
17,740
Density:
1,415 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.4
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
24.6%
Ethnic Composition
White:
69.2%
Black:
3.1%
Asian:
2.2%
Others:
25.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Southbridge, MA?
Southbridge features a cost of living index slightly above the national average, with median home values around $285,000 and average rents at $1,180. Residents benefit from relatively affordable housing compared to other parts of Massachusetts, though utility and transportation costs can be higher. State income tax rates range from 5.0% to 9.0%, making budgeting an important consideration for newcomers.
Median House Value:
$285,000
Gross Rent:
$1,180
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,480
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,890
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$660
State Taxes:
Low:
5.0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
102.0
Grocery:
102.5
Housing:
98.3
Utilities:
109.8
Transportation:
106.3
Health Care:
105.7
Miscellaneous:
100.1
Crime
Is Southbridge, MA a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Southbridge are somewhat higher than the U.S. average, with a violent crime rate of 345 per 100,000 and a property crime rate of 1,736 per 100,000. This means the chance of experiencing a property crime is about 1 in 58, while violent crime risk is 1 in 290. Prospective residents should research neighborhoods and take standard safety precautions.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
345
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,736
Crime Index:
2,081
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 290
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 58
Weather
What is the weather like in Southbridge, MA year-round?
Southbridge experiences all four New England seasons, with cold winters that dip to 17°F and warm summers reaching up to 82°F. The area receives nearly 48 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys about 54% sunny days, offering a classic seasonal climate. Residents can expect snowy winters and comfortable, mild summers perfect for outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
17°F
Max:
36°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
66°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
82°F
Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
The median household income in Southbridge is $57,100, with a poverty rate of 16.9% and an unemployment rate of 5.7%. Most neighbors have at least a high school diploma, and commuting times average about 25 minutes. The town is a close-knit community where just over one in five residents speak a language other than English at home.
Median Income:
$37,500
Household Income:
$57,100
Family Income:
$71,500
Per Capita Income:
$28,000
Income Male:
$46,000
Income Female:
$38,000
Poverty Rate:
16.9%
Non English Speakers:
24.6%
Rent:
$1,180
Unemployment Rate:
5.7%
Public Transport Usage:
1.2%
Commute Time:
25.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
84.2%
Bachelors or More:
16.3%
Education
How are the schools in Southbridge, MA?
Southbridge offers a range of public and private educational options, including Southbridge High School with a low student-teacher ratio and Trinity Catholic Academy for private schooling. Higher education is accessible thanks to Quinsigamond Community College’s local campus and nearby Nichols College. The majority of adults hold at least a high school diploma, supporting a community invested in learning.
Public Schools
Name:
Southbridge High School
Street:
132 Torrey Rd
Phone:
508-764-5430
Students:
640
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.5
Name:
Charlton Street School
Street:
220 Charlton St
Phone:
508-764-5470
Students:
530
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.8
Private Schools
Name:
Trinity Catholic Academy
Street:
11 Pine St
Phone:
508-765-5991
Students:
180
Colleges
Name:
Quinsigamond Community College (Southbridge Campus)
City:
Southbridge
State:
MA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
600
Name:
Nichols College
City:
Dudley
State:
MA
Distance:
12 miles
Students:
1,200
Healthcare
Southbridge residents have access to comprehensive care at UMass Memorial Health – Harrington Hospital, which offers emergency services and general surgery. Healthcare coverage is high, with nearly 95% of residents insured and a solid ratio of 2.6 physicians per 1,000 people. The area maintains a strong healthcare index, supporting a healthy local population.
Major Hospitals
Name:
UMass Memorial Health – Harrington Hospital
Address:
100 South Street, Southbridge, MA 01550
Phone:
(508) 765-9771
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.7%
Health Care Index:
77.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Southbridge, MA?
The Southbridge housing market is accessible, with median home prices at $285,000 and a rental vacancy rate of 7.4%. Over half of homes are owner-occupied, and the area has seen a 6.2% home appreciation rate in the past year. Both buyers and renters will find diverse options in this steadily growing market.
Median Home Price:
$285,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,180
Owner Occupied Rate:
53.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.4%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.0%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Southbridge residents are served by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles located on Main Street, providing convenient access to licensing and registration services. The office offers comprehensive support for all standard DMV needs. Residents can also access information and services online through the state's official DMV website.
State:
Massachusetts
Department:
Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles
Address:
101 Main St, Southbridge, MA 01550
Phone:
1-800-858-3926
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.