Amherst Public RecordsMassachusetts

As of the 2020 Census, Amherst, Hampshire County, MA, had a population of approximately 39,263. The median age is around 21.7 years, reflecting its large college student population. Gender distribution is nearly even, with about 51% female and 49% male. Racially, the city is 65% White, 13% Asian, 8% Hispanic or Latino, 5% Black or African American, and 9% other or two or more races. Amherst’s youthful demographics are heavily influenced by the presence of local universities.

Amherst, Hampshire, MA, is renowned for its strong educational environment, hosting 3 public high schools, including Amherst Regional High School with a graduation rate of 93%. The city is also home to prominent higher education institutions like the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst College, and Hampshire College, serving over 35,000 combined students. Adult education is supported by local initiatives and UMass programs. School safety ratings are above average, and diverse programs promote arts, STEM, and AP courses. Amherst’s public schools receive a B+ rating from Niche, reflecting high academic achievement and robust student support services.

Amherst, Hampshire County, MA, has a homeownership rate of around 48%, with median home values at approximately $460,000 (2023). Median rent stands near $1,450 per month. Housing types range from historic single-family homes in neighborhoods like North Amherst to student-focused apartments near UMass. The city’s market is competitive, with values increasing 8% year-over-year. Property taxes average about $21.82 per $1,000 of assessed value, leading to typical annual bills near $8,000 for median-priced homes. Popular neighborhoods include East Amherst and South Amherst, appealing for families and academics alike.

Amherst, MA, in Hampshire County, hosts clinics like UMass Health Services and Cooley Dickinson Hospital satellite locations, but lacks a full-service hospital within city limits; the nearest, Cooley Dickinson Hospital, is 8 miles away in Northampton. Over 95% of Amherst's 39,263 residents (2022 Census estimate) have health insurance, aided by Massachusetts' high coverage rates. Major health providers include Cooley Dickinson, UMass Health, and local primary care practices. The population, skewed young due to university students, commonly reports mental health, substance use, and respiratory issues as leading health concerns (Amherst Community Health Needs Assessment 2021).

Amherst, MA features varied transportation options, with 58% of residents commuting by car, 12% using public transit (PVTA buses), 18% biking or walking, and an average commute time of 20 minutes (U.S. Census, 2022). Vehicle ownership is moderate, with about 86% of households having at least one vehicle. Transportation infrastructure includes bike lanes and extensive bus routes serving major employment hubs: the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst College, and local schools. Despite its small-city scale, Amherst's commitment to sustainable, multimodal transport helps maintain efficient, accessible commuting for students and residents alike.