Everything You Should Know Before Moving to West Hawley, MA
Considering a move to West Hawley, MA? This small, scenic town of just 137 residents offers a peaceful rural lifestyle, affordable median home prices around $270,000, and low crime rates. Expect a relaxed pace, with average commutes of 28 minutes and quality public schools nearby. While cost of living is modest and most homes are owner-occupied, the community enjoys four true seasons, ample outdoor beauty, and strong health insurance coverage. Explore West Hawley's tight-knit charm and natural appeal as you plan your transition!
Demographics - West Hawley, MA
Demographics - West Hawley, MA
West Hawley is a small, close-knit town with a population of 137 and a low density of 12 people per square mile. The community is predominantly White, has a median age of nearly 50, and features a balanced gender ratio, making it attractive for those seeking a quiet, mature environment.
Population:
137
Density:
12 per sq mi
Median Age:
49.7
Gender Ratio:
102 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
96.0%
Black:
0.7%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
2.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in West Hawley, MA?
The cost of living in West Hawley is slightly above average, with a median home value of $270,000 and typical rents around $1,050. Utilities and transportation costs are somewhat higher than national averages, but housing remains affordable for most residents.
Median House Value:
$270,000
Gross Rent:
$1,050
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$190
Auto Insurance:
$1,480
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,420
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$590
State Taxes:
Low:
5.0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
108.5
Grocery:
105.0
Housing:
97.0
Utilities:
120.0
Transportation:
110.0
Health Care:
107.0
Miscellaneous:
102.0
Crime
Is West Hawley, MA a safe place to live?
West Hawley enjoys very low crime rates, with violent crime being especially rare—chances of experiencing a violent crime are just 1 in 1,180. Property crime is also limited, contributing to a safe and secure atmosphere for residents.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
85
Property Crimes Per 100k:
710
Crime Index:
795
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,180
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 190
Weather
What is the weather like in West Hawley, MA year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with cold winters dropping to 12°F and pleasant summers reaching up to 80°F. The area receives about 48.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine about 55% of the year, offering a classic New England climate.
Winter
Min:
12°F
Max:
34°F
Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
63°F
Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
80°F
Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
48.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
55%
Neighbors
The typical household income is around $62,700, and most adults have completed high school, with over a third holding a bachelor's degree or higher. The unemployment rate is moderate at 5.2%, and the average commute time is just under half an hour, reflecting the town’s rural setting.
Median Income:
$36,000
Household Income:
$62,700
Family Income:
$71,400
Per Capita Income:
$32,500
Income Male:
$40,000
Income Female:
$34,000
Poverty Rate:
9.8%
Non English Speakers:
4.2%
Rent:
$1,050
Unemployment Rate:
5.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
28.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.6%
Bachelors or More:
38.1%
Education
How are the schools in West Hawley, MA?
Families benefit from quality public schools like Mohawk Trail Regional High School and Hawlemont Regional Elementary School, both known for low student-teacher ratios. Nearby higher education options include Greenfield Community College and Smith College, providing accessible opportunities for advanced learning.
Public Schools
Name:
Mohawk Trail Regional High School
Street:
26 Ashfield Rd, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370
Phone:
413-625-9811
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.5
Name:
Hawlemont Regional Elementary School
Street:
10 School St, Charlemont, MA 01339
Phone:
413-339-8316
Students:
130
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.2
Colleges
Name:
Greenfield Community College
City:
Greenfield
State:
MA
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
1,800
Name:
Smith College
City:
Northampton
State:
MA
Distance:
30 miles
Students:
2,500
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is strong in West Hawley, with high insurance coverage at 97.2% and local hospitals like Baystate Franklin Medical Center nearby. The area is well-served by physicians and offers reliable emergency services for residents.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Baystate Franklin Medical Center
Address:
164 High St, Greenfield, MA 01301
Phone:
(413) 773-0211
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
97.2%
Health Care Index:
78.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in West Hawley, MA?
West Hawley has a stable housing market, with a median home price of $270,000 and over 80% owner-occupied homes. Home values have appreciated by about 4.7% in the past year, indicating steady demand in this quiet community.
Median Home Price:
$270,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,050
Owner Occupied Rate:
83.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
0.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Residents access DMV services through the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles in nearby Greenfield, which offers full services and support for drivers and vehicle owners. Convenient online resources and a local office make registration and licensing straightforward.
State:
Massachusetts
Department:
Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles
Address:
101 North Main Street, Greenfield, MA 01301
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.