Are you wondering what living in Shirley is like? Nestled in Middlesex County, this charming borough offers a blend of quiet living, historical character, and proximity to cities like Fitchburg, Ayer, and Harvard—all just under an hour from Boston.
Shirley stands out for its affluent demographics, low crime rate, and strong educational attainment (which we discuss below). Despite a slight population decline, many people are moving to Shirley for its competitive median household income of $121,875, competitive real estate prices (compared to the state prices), and a true four-season climate.
If you’re asking yourself, “Is Shirley MA a good place to live?” We’re pleased to report that the job market is thriving, the school district offers some of the best programs in the region, and its slower pace of life provides a significant contrast to nearby options.
Our guide walks you through everything you need to know about this lovely community, covering topics such as its cost of living, schools, things to do, job opportunities, and housing options.
Shirley History
Shirley, Massachusetts, was originally inhabited by Nipmuc (Pennacook) tribes until settlers arrived in 1720. Throughout the 1700s and early 1800s, paper and cotton mills were established, and the Fitchburg Railroad arrived in the area in 1844, further enhancing its development.
The borough is home to the Shirley Center Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The town has gained a few nicknames throughout the years, including Shirl and Shelley.
What County Is Shirley MA In?
Located in Middlesex County, Shirley MA is positioned near notable cities like Fitchburg, Ayer, Pepperell, and Harvard. It’s 50.1 miles, or roughly 57 minutes from Shirley to Boston.
Public transit is limited here, with the Montachusett Regional Transit Authority (MART) offering one stop (located at Ayer Rd & Phoenix St). The MBTA Fitchburg Line is a commuter rail that allows you to travel to Fitchburg and North Station in Boston. People living in Shirley rely predominantly on their cars for transportation.
Shirley Population & Demographics
Shirley MA USA has a population of 7,431 and has seen a 5.3% population decrease since 2010. If you’re seeking an affluent town, this is the place to be, as the median household income is $121,875 and the poverty rate is 2.1%. People living in Shirley are predominantly White (82.4% ), with 9.2% being Hispanic or Latino; 79.2% are White (non-Hispanic or Latino). 6.6% of the population is Black or African American, with 3.2% identifying as two or more races. The smallest racial groups are Asian (2.5%) and Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander (0.2%).
Residents in this area are predominantly middle-aged, with a median age of 44.2 years. However, 27% of people fall within the age range of 60 to 69. Only 17% of the population is under the age of 19, reflecting the lure Shirley Village holds on those in their golden years.
Other interesting demographics include educational attainment, with 100% of people holding a high school diploma and 41.5% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. Thirty percent of residents have completed some college but haven’t graduated.
The sex ratio here is 50 males to every 100 females, and despite a 5.3% population decrease since 2010, 16.2% of current residents have moved to Shirley within the past year.
Shirley MA Crime Rate
According to data provided by the FBI, Shirley Massachusetts, is a very safe place to live! There is a virtually nonexistent property crime rate here compared to the state and national averages. A total of 18 property crimes occurred within the city limits in 2022.
- Shirley crime rate per 100,000 people: 457
- Massachusetts’ crime rate per 100,000 people: 1,392
- US crime rate per 100,000 people: 2,324
The crime rate here is 67.2% lower than the state and 80.3% lower than the country.
- Shirley violent crime rate per 100,000 people: 208
- Massachuetts’ violent crime rate per 100,000 people: 322
- US violent crime rate per 100,000 people: 370
The violent crime rate in Shirley is 35.4% lower than the state and 43.8% lower than the country; the chance of becoming a victim of violent crime when living here is 1 in 482.
- Shirley property crime rate per 100,000 people: 249
- Massachusett’s property crime rate per 100,000 people: 1,070
- US property crime rate per 100,000 people: 1,954
The Shirley Police Department works diligently to keep the town safe through its crime prevention tips and education resources. If you’re a citizen who likes to stay informed, the department posts all police logs on its website, allowing residents to access them freely.
Cost of Living in Shirley
With a Cost of Living Index (COLI) of 115, Shirley, MA, is slightly more expensive than the average US city. Housing here is 14% more expensive, while utilities and groceries are 53% and 7% above the US average. Although more costly than the average city, people living in Shirley earn a household income that’s $43,337 more than the US average, helping to offset its high living costs.
The Economic Policy Institute suggests a household income of $154,387 for a family of four living in Middlesex County. But if you’re curious about what you’ll spend on daily expenses when living in Shirley, stick with us!
Average daily Shirley* expenditures:
- Inexpensive restaurant meal: $25.00
- Gallon of milk: $4.87
- Loaf of white bread: $3.78
- Dozen eggs: $4.73
- Pound of local cheese: $7.66
- Average utilities per month: $219 (per Doxo)
Source: Numbeo
*The above figures are for Boston, meaning living in Shirley may result in different prices.
Shirley MA Real Estate Overview
A major cost to consider before moving to Shirley is its housing market. While there are many first time home buyer programs to help make purchasing easier, homes are still more expensive than the US median of $416,900.
The median home price in Shirley, MA, is $455,000, which is low for its state ($830,000 median sale price). The average price per square foot is $270,000, making the housing market here very competitive. Homes for sale in Shirley MA typically sell within 15 days. Before, pre-approved and having a real estate agent on call are two great ways to ensure that your home-buying process is successful.
If you’re unable to find your dream home in time, don’t worry, just yet. 34% of people living in Shirley rent, and the average monthly rent here is only $1,850, according to Zillow—this is significantly lower than a mortgage payment on a home valued at $400,000 or more.
Shirley MA Weather & Climate
The town of Shirley,MA, has a humid continental climate, marked by hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The weather in Shirley MA is hot in the Summer, as highs often reach the 80s and 90s°F, with occasional heat waves pushing temperatures past 100°F. Winters are cold, with frequent snowfall and average lows dipping into the teens.
Rain and snow are well-distributed throughout the year, making it a location with four distinct seasons. If you’re wondering what living in Shirley will be like, considering the weather? Spring and fall offer milder, comfortable weather perfect for outdoor activities.
Things to Do in Shirley
If you’re wondering what activities you’ll have to choose from when living in Shirley, you’ll find our guide below. Although the town is mostly residential homes, there are a handful of parks and outdoor spaces to explore. A wider range of activities, such as bowling, movie theaters, or shopping, can be found in nearby cities like Devens, Harvard, and Lancaster.
MassWildlife’s Mulpus Brook WMA
Explore the breathtaking views this state-managed nature preserve has to offer. Local birders and nature enthusiasts frequent the city’s expansive wildlife park.
42 59094024774508 #71.64838206203076, Shirley, MA 01464, (978) 772-2145
Benjamin Hill Park
Another Shirley staple is Benjamin Hill Park. There is a large walking path, a swimming pool, a small pond, and ample open spaces to check out while visiting.
Benjamin Hill Recreation Area, 93 Benjamin Rd, Shirley, MA 01464, (978) 425-9536
Red Tail Golf Club
First rule of business after moving to Shirley is setting your tee time! Red Tail Golf Club is a local golf course that many residents adore. Although it’s located in neighboring Devens, it’s a short drive and entirely worth leaving town for a bit.
15 Bulge Rd, Devens, MA 01434, (978) 772-3273
Shirley MA Restaurants
This community isn’t known for a specific type of food, but there is a wide range of eateries for you to try upon moving here.
Bull Run Restaurant
Are you looking for live music and delicious dishes? Visit Bull Run, one of the best Shirley MA restaurants. They serve farm-fresh American cuisine, and customers love the picturesque decor and friendly staff.
215 Great Rd, Shirley, MA 01464, (978) 425-4311
Village Pizza
Village Pizza is a casual dining spot in Shirley with traditional Italian dishes like calzones, pastas, meatball subs, and build-your-own pizzas.
10 Main St, Shirley, MA 01464, (978) 425-9502
Shirley Sub Shoppe
If you’re craving a hoogie when living in Shirley, the town’s local sub shop is the place to be. You can get anything from salads to subs and even fish and chips!
1 Front St, Shirley, MA 01464, (978) 425-5436
Shirley Jobs
With leading industries in healthcare, educational services, information, and manufacturing, Shirley, MA, offers numerous high-paying job opportunities. The area’s major employers include Partners Healthcare System Inc., Raytheon, UMass System Admin Ofc, and MCI–Shirley Correctional Facility. If you work in the public sector, always consider the town of Shirley MA jobs, as the pay and benefits are competitive and stable.
If you’re still struggling to find jobs in Shirley MA that fit your needs, you can always seek opportunities nearby. Cities like Worcester, Braintree, and Andover are far more developed; for example, Worcester hosts UMass Memorial Health, and Braintree is home to Partners Healthcare System Inc.
Shirley Schools
Ayer Shirley Regional School District (ASRSD) serves K-12 students living in Shirley seeking public education services. There are four schools in the district, which serve Shirley and Ayer residents.
ASRSD is a great option for those seeking additional family support, as it provides services such as a student handbook, bullying intervention programs, English language education for minority students, homeless support, mental health services, and extended day enrichment programs. There is a program within the district that advocates for children with special needs (SEPAC (Special Education Parent Advisory Council) and counseling for children in all grade levels.
If you’re seeking even more information on your potential new school district, their website has everything you could think of. For example, their calendar reports key dates, and their school menu is published weekly, so you always know what your kiddo is consuming. If you want to see which bus routes will serve your new home, you can find that online as well!
Which Schools in the District Am I Zoned for?
If you’re unsure which schools your new home will be zoned for, here’s a handy guide:
- Page Hilltop Elementary – Ayers
- Lura A. White Elementary – Shirley
- Ayer Shirley Regional Middle School – Shirley
- Ayer Shirley Regional High School – Ayers
Keep in mind that elementary schools typically serve residents in the city where they’re located, and middle and high schools are regional, serving children within an entire region.
For even more educational support, look to the Hazen Memorial Library, which offers unique incentives such as free internet access, research assistance, and summer reading programs.
Shirley Statistics & Information
- Shirley MA county: Middlesex County
- Shirley MA area: 15.9 square miles
- Shirley MA zip code: 01464
- Shirley MA area code(s): 351 / 978
- Shirley MA elevation: 279 feet
- Shirley MA time zone: Eastern Time Zone (UTC-5 and -4)
- Closest airport to Shirley MA: Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) is 46.8 miles from Shirley
Shirley Map
Explore more things to do when living in Shirley with this handy map.
Moving to Shirley MA, With Mass Bay Movers
Shirley may not be the most talked-about town in Massachusetts, but it offers plenty to love! It may not be as big as New York City or as bustling as Boston, but that’s what makes it so appealing to those seeking a more laid-back lifestyle.
With affordable housing, scenic views, and all the essentials you need, Shirley is the ideal place to live. Whether you’re tired of the urban congestion or simply are searching for something more beautiful than skyscrapers and street signs, Shirley just might be your next home. When you’re ready to move, call the top Shirley MA movers, Mass Bay Movers at (978) 587-3775 for a free quote.
