Shirley City Healthcare

Shirley, located in Middlesex County, MA, is a small town with limited healthcare facilities; there are no hospitals within the town, but residents access care at nearby Nashoba Valley Medical Center (15 miles away) and clinics in Ayer or Leominster. Approximately 94% of Shirley’s population is insured, per U.S. Census data. The town (pop. ~7,800) is predominantly White (75%) and African American (14%), with a median age of 40. Common health issues reflect regional trends, including heart disease, diabetes, and substance use disorders. Primary healthcare providers are largely independent practices or group facilities in adjacent towns.

Shirley City Demographics

Shirley, a town in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, has a population of approximately 7,900 as of 2022. The median age is around 43 years. The gender distribution is roughly 49% male and 51% female. Racially, Shirley is about 82% White, 7% Black or African American, 3% Asian, and 5% Hispanic or Latino, with the remainder identifying as other or mixed races. The community has a diverse age distribution, with about 19% under 18 and 16% aged 65 or older.

Shirley City Housing

Shirley, Middlesex County, MA offers a median home price of around $420,000 (as of 2024), with homeownership rates near 80% and average rents about $2,100/month. Housing includes single-family homes, townhouses, and select apartments, primarily in neighborhoods like Shirley Center and Devens. Property values have increased roughly 6% year-over-year, reflecting a competitive market. Property taxes average 1.3% of assessed value, with an average annual bill near $5,400. The area’s blend of suburban and rural settings appeals to both families and commuters.

Education in Shirley City

Shirley, in Middlesex County, MA, features strong educational offerings served mainly by the Ayer Shirley Regional School District, which includes one public high school, Ayer Shirley Regional High School (grades 9–12). The district's schools scored an average 7/10 on GreatSchools. About 35% of Shirley adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, close to the national average. School safety is prioritized, with regular security drills and a dedicated student resource officer. The high school offers diverse Advanced Placement and vocational programs, enhancing post-secondary readiness and adult education initiatives, including GED and workforce training, are also available locally.

Transportation in Shirley City

Shirley, located in Middlesex County, MA, is primarily a commuter town, with around 80% of residents driving alone to work and approximately 7% using public transit, primarily via the MBTA Fitchburg Line commuter rail at Shirley Station. The average commute time is about 32 minutes. The town’s transportation infrastructure includes access to MA Route 2 and proximity to Interstates 190 and 495. Vehicle ownership is high, with roughly 95% of households owning at least one vehicle. Major employment hubs for residents include Boston, Worcester, and nearby Devens.

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