Introduction to Adams as the most affordable town in Massachusetts
Massachusetts is known for its rich history, picturesque scenery, and impressive job market. However, it’s also known for its exorbitant cost of living, especially in major cities, such as Boston and Cambridge. Despite this reputation, there is one town that stands out as the most affordable place to live in Massachusetts. That town is Adams.Location and size of Adams
Located in the northern region of Massachusetts, Adams is a small city with a population of around 8000 people. It’s situated in the Berkshire Hills, which offer breathtaking mountain views and opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and rafting. Adams is also conveniently located near major highways, making it easy to access other parts of Massachusetts and neighboring states.Historical significance of Adams through its namesake
Adams was named for Samuel Adams, one of the founding fathers of the United States and a leader of the American Revolution. Samuel Adams was born in nearby Boston and played a significant role in the early days of the country. By naming the town after him, Adams pays homage to its history and to the values of freedom and independence that are so important to the nation.Cost of living in Adams compared to other Massachusetts towns
Adams is known for its affordable cost of living, especially when compared to other Massachusetts towns. According to BestPlaces, the cost of living in Adams is 22% lower than the Massachusetts average and 10% lower than the national average. Some of the factors that contribute to this include lower housing costs, lower property taxes, and a lower overall cost of goods and services. Some examples of the cost of goods and services in Adams include:- Gasoline: 10-15 cents cheaper per gallon than neighboring towns
- Groceries: 3-5% less expensive than the national average
- Healthcare: 10-15% less expensive than the national average
Quality of life in Adams for residents
Adams offers a high quality of life for its residents, with easy access to nature, a low crime rate, and a tight-knit community. The town is also home to several parks, museums, and cultural attractions, including the Susan B. Anthony Birthplace Museum and the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail. Other factors that contribute to the quality of life in Adams include:- Excellent schools with small class sizes
- A vibrant downtown area with locally owned shops and restaurants
- Low traffic congestion and a short commute to neighboring cities
Job opportunities in Adams and surrounding areas
While Adams may be small, it still offers job opportunities for its residents. The largest employers in the town include Berkshire Health Systems, General Dynamics, and the Adams-Cheshire Regional School District. In addition, the surrounding areas offer job opportunities in fields such as healthcare, education, and manufacturing. Some nearby cities with job opportunities include:- Pittsfield: Home to major employers such as General Electric and Berkshire Health Systems
- North Adams: Home to the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art and other cultural attractions
- Williamstown: Home to Williams College and associated institutions
Real estate market in Adams for prospective homebuyers
One of the major reasons why Adams is so affordable is because of its low housing costs. The median home price in Adams is $142,000, which is significantly lower than the Massachusetts average of $558,800. This makes it a great option for first-time homebuyers or those looking for a second home. Some of the other benefits of the real estate market in Adams include:- A wide range of housing options, including single-family homes, condos, and apartments
- Low property taxes compared to neighboring towns
- A stable housing market with low foreclosure rates
