Gardner City Demographics

Gardner city, located in Worcester County, MA, has a population of approximately 21,800 (2022 Census). The median age is around 40.5 years. Gender distribution is nearly equal, with about 50.1% female and 49.9% male residents. The racial and ethnic makeup is 83.2% White, 4.5% Black or African American, 2.1% Asian, 0.4% Native American, and 7.8% identifying as Hispanic or Latino of any race.

Transportation in Gardner City

Gardner, in Worcester County, MA, primarily relies on personal vehicles, with about 85% of residents commuting by car and a vehicle ownership rate of roughly 94% of households. Worcester Regional Transit Authority offers limited bus services, and less than 1% of residents use public transit. The average commute time is approximately 27 minutes. Key transportation infrastructure includes Routes 2 and 68. Major employment hubs are Heywood Hospital, Mount Wachusett Community College, and local manufacturing firms, with the city's workforce often commuting to neighboring cities like Fitchburg and Worcester for employment.

Gardner City Healthcare

Gardner, a city in Worcester County, MA, offers healthcare through facilities like Heywood Hospital (134 beds), several clinics, and primary care providers. Approximately 94% of residents are insured, with 32% on public insurance. The city's population is about 21,000, predominantly White (89%), with 13% aged 65+. Access to healthcare is rated high, with a patient-to-primary care physician ratio of 1,280:1. Common health issues include cardiovascular disease, diabetes (9% prevalence), and substance abuse. Providers include Heywood Healthcare and Community Health Connections. Clinics emphasize preventative care and mental health services to address community needs.

Education in Gardner City

Gardner, a city in Worcester County, MA, has 7 public schools, including Gardner High School and Gardner Middle School. The high school graduation rate is around 86%, while approximately 22% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety scores are moderate, with reports indicating average incident rates. Gardner offers adult education programs, such as HiSET (GED) preparation and ESL classes. Test scores at public schools are slightly below the state average, with MCAS proficiency rates around 60% in math and English. The district offers special education, AP courses, and vocational training programs.

Gardner City Housing

Gardner, near Worcester, MA, features a median home value of around $300,000 (2024), with property values up roughly 6% year-over-year. About 60% of residents own homes, while the median rent is $1,350/month. Housing types include single-family houses, multifamily units, and some condos, with Victorian and Colonial styles common in neighborhoods like West Gardner and South Gardner. Property tax rates average $17.86 per $1,000 valuation. Gardner offers relatively affordable options compared to Greater Worcester, appealing to families and first-time buyers.

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