Nestled southwest of Boston and north of Providence is the town of Mansfield, Massachusetts, offering a taste of suburban life not far from big-city convenience. Mansfield is known for its amazing history, amazing public schools, and as the home of the Xfinity Center, one of New England’s most beloved music venues.
First settled in 1658 and officially incorporated in 1775, the town has garnered quite a reputation for its excellent education system and beautiful environment. Whether you’re a summer person or prefer the winter, you’ll find that there is no shortage of things to do in Mansfield.
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Where is Mansfield, Massachusetts?
Mansfield is considered a suburb of Boston and is located in Bristol County in the state of Massachusetts, which is part of New England. This town is unique because it’s situated almost equidistant between Boston and Providence. In fact it’s Mansfield to Boston is 33 miles and about a 40 minute drive. While it offers a taste of small town life, you don’t have to travel far for the many commodities that living in close proximity to a city offers.
Mansfield was named for William Murray, the first Earl of Mansfield. Murray was a pro-colonial member of the UK’s House of Lords.
Mansfield borders Foxborough to the north, so if you’re a Patriots football fan, getting to and from a game will be a breeze. To the south there’s Easton, Norton, and Attlebro. To the west, you’ll find Plainville. Another huge perk of choosing to call Mansfield, Mass home is that you’ll be in close proximity to Cape Cod; it’s just over an hour away.
Mansfield Population & Demographics
In 2020, the population of Mansfield was 23,860. This increased by over 675 people from the 2010 Census results, so the town is in a period of slow growth.
There’s a large population of young people in Mansfield, too, which is why it’s a great place to raise a family. 4.9% of the population is under five years old, and 22.1% is under 18. As for the older Mansfield demographic, 12.9% of people are 65 and older. The population is also a majority female — 52.7% identify as women.
You might be familiar with some notable Mansfield natives. Benjamin Bates IV, an industrialist, was a Mansfield Native, as well as Shawnae Jebbia, who won Miss Massachusetts USA and Miss USA in 1998.
The population is affluent — Mansfield’s median household income in 2020 was $120,694 compared to the national median household income which was $67,521. This reveals that the Mansfield income is nearly double the national average.
According to the census, the population of Mansfield is a majority caucisan with 89% of the population identifying as white. 5.9% is Asian, 2.4% of the population is Black or African American, and 4% is Hispanic or Latino. 1.2% of Mansfield residents identify as two or more races, and .2% identify as American Indian.
Mansfield’s total crime rate is 967 per 100K people, which is 36% lower than the state and 61% lower than the National crime rate. Moreover, both the violent and property crime rates are lower and as such Mansfield MA is a very safe place to live.
The town is served by the Mansfield police department with 38 officers at a ratio of 1.6 officers per 1,000 population.
Cost of Living in Mansfield
Because of its proximity to two major US cities, the average cost of living in Mansfield is higher than the US average. However, you’ll find that despite the higher Mansfield cost of living, it’s quite worth it because of the array of opportunities the town offers.
The average cost of living in the US is 100, whereas in Mansfield, it is 128.4. This is slightly higher than the Massachusetts average which is 127.2. Here’s another way of viewing it: the Mansfield cost of living is approximately 28% higher than the US average.
The monthly food cost is about $887, childcare costs about $1,803, transportation $1,136, healthcare about $1,041, and taxes about $986. According to the Economic Policy Institute, the average family of 4 will need to earn $92,205 per year to afford to live in Mansfield MA.
You’ll also pay more for a home in Mansfield — the average national cost of a home is $291,700, whereas the average cost of a home in Mansfield is $564,400. The median gross rent is approximately $1,329.
Mansfield Neighborhoods | Where to Live in Mansfield
There are four main neighborhoods in Mansfield, Mass. These include East Mansfield (or Ginty Corner), Purdy Corner (also known as Robinsonville), Whiteville, and Mansfield Center. We’ve listed these in order of price; East Mansfield is the most costly while Mansfield Center is the most affordable.
Mansfield Weather & Climate
Mansfield is in the northeastern United States in a region colloquially referred to as New England. Therefore, if you’re moving to Mansfield, you’ll enjoy all four seasons. Yes, it does snow in Mansfield. The month with the highest Mansfield average snowfall is January, and you can expect to get about 9.5 inches of snow.
In a broader sense, if you’re wondering, what’s the weather like in Mansfield, you’ll be happy to hear that it’s pretty typical of New England. Throughout the course of a year, the average temperature in Mansfield ranges from 19 – 84 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it’s uncommon to experience a temperature that dips below 3 or above 92 degrees Fahrenheit.
Things to Do in Mansfield
We’re here to let you know that there are no shortage of things to do, and that sports enthusiasts, music aficionados, and nature lovers alike will all find something that tickles their fancy. Of course, if you’re interested in shopping, you can find a variety of items you’re seeking at the Mansfield Crossing Mall. And did we mention that Mansfield also offers local favorite food shopping such as the Mansfield Farms Fresh Market and Shaw’s. Here are a few things to do in Mansfield that we’re sure you’ll love.
Xfinity Center
Whether you’re a country, rock and roll, pop, or hip hop music listener, we guarantee that you’ll find a concert you’d like to attend at the Xfinity Center in Mansfield. If you’ve spent any time searching for fun things to do in Mansfield, you know it’s impossible not to mention this concert venue.
885 S Main St, Mansfield, MA 02048, (508) 339-2331
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Fulton Pond and Park
This lush, green park and pond is an excellent place to spend the afternoon. There is also a brief trail that runs along the waterway and several tables if you’re looking to have a picnic.
Fulton Pond Rumford & West, Mansfield, MA 02048
World War II Veterans Memorial Trail
If you’re an avid bike rider, have a baby and would like to go on an easygoing stroll, or enjoy taking walks through the neighborhood, don’t miss out on this beautiful, well-kept trail in Mansfield. Pro tip: visit during the fall so you can enjoy the leaves changing color.
448-430 Fruit St, Mansfield, MA 02048
Here are additional Mansfield attractions you may be interested in:
Mansfield Restaurants
The town boasts a myriad of unique eateries, so if you’re looking into restaurants in Mansfield, you’ll be thrilled to learn that you can find something for any taste. Whether you’re in the mood for Italian, American, seafood or beyond, the array of Mansfield restaurants will appeal to all members of your family. Here are a few of the best Mansfield, MA restaurants.
- Cibo Matto Caffe: This Mansfield institution is a must-try if you’re considering living in town. You’ll find a variety of artistically created Italian dishes at this fan-favorite Mansfield restaurant. And did we mention there are vegan options available, too?
254 Chauncy Street Mansfield, MA 02048, 508-339-9800
- Mansfield Variety & Deli: Looking for a good egg and cheese? What about a freshly made bagel? Or, a caesar salad? Whatever you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it at this locals’ favorite deli.
72 Pratt St, Mansfield, MA 02048, 508-339-2994.
- Flynn’s Irish Pub: If you’re a beer lover, you can’t miss out on this beloved Mansfield watering hole. With over 40 beers on tap and an array of bar foods, Flynn’s Irish Pub is ideal for a casual night out.
219 N Main St, Mansfield, MA 02048, 508-337-2100
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Jobs in Mansfield
Because of how close Mansfield is to Boston and Providence, it’s not uncommon to find people commuting to either of these larger cities for work. In fact, Mansfield even has a stop on the MBTA’s commuter line that runs between Providence and Boston. Therefore, if you’re commuting to either city from Mansfield, you’ll find that you have a relatively seamless experience. Because Mansfield is so close to Boston and Providence, you’ll find that there are a whole host of employment opportunities in or around Mansfield.
City Schools in Mansfield
Luckily, you’ll find that the Mansfield school district is highly rated, so you can be sure your children will gain a quality education. The district has just over 3,600 kids across PK-12. It even earned the second place ranking of best school districts for athletes in Massachusetts, according to Niche.
Mansfield Statistics & Information
- Bristol County
- Area: 20.73 square miles
- Zip code: 02048
- Area code: 508 and 774
- Elevation: 160’
- Time zone: EST
- Closest airport: Norwood Memorial Airport, OWD, http://www.norwoodma.gov/departments/airport/index.php, 25 miles
Map of Mansfield, MA
Discover the magic of this quintessential New England town with this map of Mansfield.
Moving to Mansfield? We can make it easier.
If you’ve decided to move to Mansfield, congratulations! We know you’ll absolutely love this gem of a town. With its close proximity to major cities, myriad of things to do, and family-friendly environment, you’ll feel right at home here. If you’re ready to make your move, give our Mansfield MA Movers a call at 978-288-0386 for your free quote.
