Everything You Should Know Before Moving to West Otis, MA
Considering a move to West Otis, MA? With a small-town population of around 400, West Otis offers peaceful rural living, median home prices near $375,000, and average rents around $1,200. Residents enjoy a low violent crime rate (80 per 100K), high owner-occupied housing, and a strong sense of community. Commute times average 34 minutes, local schools are well-rated, and the scenic Berkshires provide beautiful four-season weather with 52% sunny days—ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a quiet lifestyle.
Demographics - West Otis, MA
Demographics - West Otis, MA
West Otis is a close-knit rural community of about 400 residents, with a median age of 52.3, reflecting a mature and stable population. The area is predominantly White, with small percentages of other ethnicities and about 6% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. The population density is low, offering spacious living and a tranquil environment.
Population:
400
Density:
25 per sq mi
Median Age:
52.3
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.0%

Ethnic Composition
White:
93.0%
Black:
2.0%
Asian:
1.5%
Others:
3.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in West Otis, MA?
Living in West Otis comes with a cost of living index of 115.8, slightly above the national average, mainly due to higher housing and utility expenses. Median home values are around $375,000, and average rents are $1,200, making it a moderately priced option in the region. Residents also face typical Massachusetts state taxes ranging from 5% to 9%.
Median House Value:
$375,000
Gross Rent:
$1,200
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$180
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$540
State Taxes:
Low:
5.0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
115.8
Grocery:
110.0
Housing:
120.5
Utilities:
115.0
Transportation:
108.0
Health Care:
106.0
Miscellaneous:
109.0
Crime
Is West Otis, MA a safe place to live?
West Otis boasts a low violent crime rate of 80 incidents per 100,000 people, offering a safe environment for families and retirees. Property crime is also relatively low, with a 1 in 140 chance, making personal safety and community security notable benefits of living here.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
80
Property Crimes Per 100k:
720
Crime Index:
800
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,250
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 140
Weather
What is the weather like in West Otis, MA year-round?
Residents enjoy the full spectrum of four New England seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 81°F and cold winters dipping to 12°F. The area receives about 45 inches of annual rainfall and experiences sunshine 52% of the year, making it ideal for outdoor and nature enthusiasts.

Winter
Min:
12°F
Max:
32°F

Spring
Min:
33°F
Max:
65°F

Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
81°F

Fall
Min:
36°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
45.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
52%
Neighbors
West Otis households typically have an income around $71,500, with a low poverty rate of 7.8% and an unemployment rate of 3.7%. Most neighbors are well-educated, as over 93% hold at least a high school diploma, and the median commute time is about 34 minutes, reflecting the town’s rural character. Community ties are strong, and residents enjoy a peaceful, small-town atmosphere.
Median Income:
$37,000
Household Income:
$71,500
Family Income:
$86,000
Per Capita Income:
$38,200
Income Male:
$44,000
Income Female:
$35,000
Poverty Rate:
7.8%
Non English Speakers:
6.0%
Rent:
$1,200
Unemployment Rate:
3.7%
Public Transport Usage:
1.2%
Commute Time:
34.0 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
93.5%
Bachelors or More:
38.0%
Education
How are the schools in West Otis, MA?
Families in West Otis benefit from the well-rated Farmington River Elementary School, which features small class sizes and a low student-teacher ratio. Private school options are available nearby, and Berkshire Community College, just 24 miles away, offers higher education opportunities for local students.

Public Schools
Name:
Farmington River Elementary School
Street:
555 North Main Rd, Otis, MA 01253
Phone:
413-269-4466
Students:
160
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.5

Private Schools
Name:
Berkshire Christian School
Street:
259 Kemble St, Lenox, MA 01240
Phone:
413-637-2446
Students:
85

Colleges
Name:
Berkshire Community College
City:
Pittsfield
State:
MA
Distance:
24 miles
Students:
2,300
Healthcare
Residents have access to reputable regional hospitals such as Fairview Hospital and Berkshire Medical Center, both offering emergency services within a short drive. Healthcare coverage is high, with 97% of the population insured and 2.6 physicians per 1,000 residents, ensuring reliable access to medical care.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Fairview Hospital
Address:
29 Lewis Ave, Great Barrington, MA 01230
Phone:
(413) 528-8600
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Berkshire Medical Center
Address:
725 North St, Pittsfield, MA 01201
Phone:
(413) 447-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
97.0%
Health Care Index:
76.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in West Otis, MA?
The housing market in West Otis is characterized by a high homeownership rate of 82% and a median home price of $375,000. Rental vacancies are low at 6.2%, and home values have appreciated by 5.4% over the past year, indicating a stable and attractive market for buyers and investors.
Median Home Price:
$375,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,200
Owner Occupied Rate:
82.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.4%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Local residents are served by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office located in Tyngsborough. The office provides essential services such as licensing, registration, and title transfers; more information is available on the state RMV website.
State:
Massachusetts
Department:
Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles
Address:
101 Lowell Rd, Tyngsborough, MA 01879
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.