Ashby, MA is a peaceful town, featuring classic New England small-town charm, a historic downtown common, white-steepled churches, and a strong sense of community. Ashby moves at a slower pace, without all the noise and bustle of the bigger cities like Worcester and Boston. The schools are above average, making it an ideal place for families.
For nature lovers, outdoor recreation opportunities and scenic places to explore abound, such as at Willard Brook State Forest. Local events like farmers’ markets, annual festivals, and summer concerts on the commons add to the close-knit atmosphere in Ashby. You’ll love the quiet, scenic rural feel when living in Massachusetts, specifically while living in Ashby MA.
Where Is Ashby, MA?
Ashby is a rural community in the northwestern corner of Middlesex County in North Central Massachusetts, about an hour and a half drive northwest of Boston and about 35 miles north of Worcester, right on the New Hampshire border. Ashby is situated near the Wapack Mountain Range and Willard Brook State Forest.
Map of Ashby, MA
You’re just a short walk away from the great outdoors in the town of Ashby. Check out the sites close to the residents living in Ashby, including the beautiful Mount Watatic.
Ashby MA Population and Demographics
The Ashby population is 3,188 people. Those living in Ashby MA are primarily rooted in English colonial heritage, but many local families can trace their roots back to Norway, Sweden, Finland, or Germany. In the 1800s, many German, Scandinavian, and Finnish families settled in the area. Evidence of the Germanic and Scandinavian influence today can be seen in the Lutheran and Nordic Evangelical Free traditions and many family names in the area that reflect Germanic (Schmidt, Keller, Bauer, etc.) and Scandinavian Anderson, Johansen, Olson, etc.) ancestry.
Race & Ethnicity
Here is the race and ethnicity of those living in Ashby MA:
- White alone 94.2%
- Asian alone 0.4%
- Two or more races 1.9%
- Hispanic 3.5%
An Overview of Ashby’s Demographics:
- Population density: 134.7 per square mile
- Median age: 50.2
- Sex ratio: 49.4% males, 50.6% females
- Median household income: $110,536
- Educational attainment: 93.3% high school degree or higher, 42.4% bachelor’s degree or higher
- Foreign-born population: 3.8%
- Veteran population: 117
Ashby is a small town with a relatively low crime rate. The violent crime rate in Ashby is 48% lower than the national average. There are about 95 violent crimes per 100,000 per year in Ashby and about 537 property crimes per 100,000. The Ashby Police Department, and its 15 sworn officers, has a mission to provide excellent service and protection to the community through leadership and police-community partnership. They work hand in hand with the fire department to keep the town of Ashby safe!
Ashby MA Cost of Living
The cost of living in Ashby MA is 44.7% higher than the US average but 13.5% lower than the Massachusetts state average, making money management important for residents. Housing costs make up the biggest portion of the Ashby cost of living. Housing costs are 39% above the US average, although 20% lower than the state average. The median sale price of a home in Ashby is $550,000. The price per square foot of the current homes for sale in Ashby is $280.
Check out the many houses for sale in Ashby MA. The cost of a two-bedroom apartment in Ashby is about $2,230 per month, which is 55.9% more than the national average of $1,430 and 4.0% more than the state average of $2,140. You can find apartments and homes for rent in Ashby MA on Realtor.com.
Typical Ashby Living Expenses:
- Meal, inexpensive restaurant: $20.00
- Domestic beer: $6.00
- 1 gallon of milk: $3.60
- Dozen eggs: $3.72
- 1 pound of chicken: $5.94
- Average Ashby monthly utility bill: $193.33
Source: Numbeo, Worcester, MA
The Best Neighborhoods in Ashby
Ashby doesn’t have officially designated neighborhoods, but it does have a few recognizable local areas, including South Village and Ashby Center/Town Common. Most people know this area by the First Parish Church and its tall spire.
Rural residential areas dominate the rest of the town living in Ashby MA, spread out along rural roads and state routes. Ashby has lots of farmland and homes on spacious lots, surrounded by thick trees with hiking trails. Schools are close by, regardless of where you live in Ashby. Many homes in Ashby sit on several acres of land, and you’ll find that a number of them have farms or equestrian facilities attached.
Most of the homes in the area are Colonial-inspired, some dating back to the 1700s. Newer houses in Ashby are typically ranch-style or a split-level design. Ashby has little commercial activity and one restaurant, but shopping and dining options are available in the neighboring town.
Ashby MA Weather & Climate
Ashby has a humid continental climate, characterized by cold winters and warm, humid summers. Temperatures in the winter months are typically very cold, ranging from around 0°F to 40°F. In summer, temperatures range from around 65°F to 90°F. Rainfall in Ashby is relatively consistent throughout the year, with an average of about 49 inches of rain per year, whereas the US average is 38 inches of rain per year.
Snowfall is common in the winter months for those living in Ashby MA, with the first snow falling as early as October and the last snow coming as late as April. Ashby averages around 70 inches of snow per year. The US average is less than half that at 28 inches per year. On average, there are 197 sunny days per year in Ashby. The best time of year to visit Ashby is from late June to early September.
Things to Do in Ashby MA
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Ashby is a small, residential town, but there are many things to do in the surrounding area while living in Ashby MA. Additionally, enjoy convenient shopping at Harbor Village Mall, Lunenburg Crossing, and Ashby Market & Hardware. Here are some of the best things to do in Ashby.
Willard Brook State Forest
Willard Brook State Forest spans 2,597 acres and offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, horseback riding, hunting, swimming, and mountain biking, as well as snowmobiling and cross-country skiing during the winter months. It’s a must-see while living in Ashby MA!
599 Main St, West Townsend, MA 01474, (978) 597-8802
Trap Falls
Trap Falls is a popular local hangout in the Willard Brook State Forest for those living in Ashby MA. Situated in a picturesque setting, the falls feature three separate plunges that dump into a shallow pool. In addition to the scenic views and splashing around in the falls, you can use the picnic tables and charcoal grills for a picnic out in nature.
599 Main St, West Townsend, MA 01474
Ashby Stock Farm
Equestrians will love Ashby Stock Farm, a training and boarding center that has been a part of the community since 1987. There is plenty to do if you want to see or ride horses. They offer lessons and boarding for those living in Ashby MA.
1155 Main St, Ashby, MA 01431, 978-325-0722
Additional Attractions Near Ashby, MA
There’s also the Ashby Wildlife Management Area, a hilly area split between marshes to the north and dense forests to the south, surrounded by towering maple trees. The trails are also home to a number of animals like coyotes and the occasional moose living in Ashby MA.
Restaurants in Ashby MA
Ashby is a small, rural town with only one local restaurant, but there are many dining options close by in the surrounding towns. From pubs and taverns to Mediterranean cuisine, burgers to pizza, Ashby has something for every palate. Here are some of the most popular small businesses serving food to those living in Ashby MA.
Smith Hill Tavern
Ashby’s one and only local restaurant, Smith Hill Tavern, is a small, family-owned cafe specializing in homemade comfort food. Whenever possible, they use local, homegrown ingredients that are always fresh. The food is always fresh and locally sourced from area farms and businesses. It’s truly a favorite for those living in Ashby MA.
873 Main St Front, Ashby, MA 01431, (978) 386-1185
The Tavern on Central
Billed as “Not your average tavern”, The Tavern on Central serves up burgers, tacos, and other pub favorites, as well as a great beer selection, in a relaxed atmosphere that features live entertainment and a pool table.
3 Central St, Ashburnham, MA 01430, (978) 827-1272
Makarios Kitchen
Makarios Kitchen offers tasty Mediterranean cuisine, always prepared with care and using the highest quality ingredients. Some favorites include shawarma, kabab, pitta sandwiches, pizza, chicken wings, and fresh salad.
219 Highland Ave, Fitchburg, MA 01420, (978) 400-7872
Jobs in Ashby MA
Ashby provides job opportunities in fields such as professional, scientific, and technical services, finance and insurance, and healthcare. Ashby’s easy access to Worcester and Boston offers additional job opportunities. One of the major employers near Ashby is UMass Memorial HealthAlliance-Clinton Hospital, a major employer in Central Massachusetts, employing over 20,000 workers. The hospital is known for its commitment to patient care, research, and academic excellence, emphasizing a culture of providing exceptional patient care.
Other major employers near Ashby include Mount Wachusett Community College, Simonds International, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Brigham & Women’s Hospital. If you’re looking for jobs in Ashby, check out Indeed or other job board sites.
Schools in Ashby MA
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Ashby is part of the North Middlesex Regional School District, with very good public schools that rival Boston’s school districts and a strong reputation for community support. The district consists of North Middlesex Regional High, Hawthorne Brook Middle, Nissitissit Middle, Squannacook Early Childhood Center, Spaulding Memorial, and Varnum Brook Elementary.
The North Middlesex Regional School District has a mission to provide a high-quality education, preparing students for success. They strive to deliver a comprehensive and challenging curriculum that meets the needs of a diverse student body, equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and attributes necessary for success in college, careers, and beyond.
Private and charter schools are also abundant! Ashby also provides very good private school options. Some popular private schools include Groton School, Concord Academy, and Phillips Academy.
Not finished with your education? If you are interested in post-secondary education, there are a number of great colleges and universities near Ashby. Some popular choices include Fitchburg State University, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, UMass Amherst, and Mount Wachusett Community College.
The Ashby Free Public Library features much more than just books, CDs, mucus, and movies. The library hosts art shows, writing groups, lectures, and children’s programming. Check out the Library Event Calendar for all the monthly events and programs.
Ashby MA Statistics & Information
- Ashby county: Middlesex County
- Ashby area: 15.1 square miles
- Ashby MA zip code: 02367
- Ashby area code: 339, 781
- Ashby elevation: 105 feet
- Ashby time zone: Eastern Time Zone (UTC-5)
- Closest airport to Ashby: Boston Airport (BOS), 57 miles
Moving to Ashby? Mass Bay Movers Can Help
Are you moving to Ashby? If so, you can trust Mass Bay Movers to help you with local moving, long distance moving, storage, and even packing. We know living in Ashby MA comes with many new costs, which is why our Ashby movers are affordable and caring. Give us a call at 978-587-3775 to get started on a free quote.
