If you’re considering living in Dartmouth MA, you’ll find a historic coastal town known for its scenic beauty, farmland, and seaside charm. Dartmouth Massachusetts was settled in 1652 and incorporated in 1664, and was named after Dartmouth, England. Today, it’s celebrated for its rural landscapes, working vineyards, and coastal living, making living in Dartmouth MA peaceful and picturesque.
Where Is Dartmouth MA?
Dartmouth is a town in Bristol County, Massachusetts, in the South Coast region. It sits on the state’s southeastern coast, west of New Bedford. This region features a mix of seaside neighboring towns, farmland, and many historic villages, including Padanaram, Hixville, Bliss Corner, Smith Mills, and Russells Mills. It borders Westport, Freetown MA, and Acushnet. It’s 57 miles from Dartmouth to Boston MA, and 28 miles from Dartmouth to Providence RI.
The town’s southern edge opens to Buzzards Bay. It offers scenic beaches, marinas, and views of Cuttyhunk and Elizabeth Islands, one of the best perks of living in Dartmouth MA. Further inland are forests, farmland, and rural neighborhoods. It is part of the New Bedford metro area, offering coastal living with convenient major urban centers nearby.
Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides public transportation connecting the town with New Bedford and other nearby communities. SRTA offers service to areas including the UMass Dartmouth campus and local shopping centers, making living in Dartmouth MA convenient for students.
Dartmouth Population & Demographics
The population of Dartmouth MA is 33,783, with a metro population of 1.6 million.
One notable person from Dartmouth MA is Peter Souza. Souza is an American photojournalist and former director of the White House Photography Office. Another notable resident was American landscape painter Dwight William Tryon, who captured the town’s natural beauty that defines living in Dartmouth MA.
Dartmouth Massachusetts Demographics
- 49% men vs 51% women
- Median age: 42.1 years
- The racial and ethnic composition: White 84%, Asian 2%, Black or African American 2%, two or more races 6%
- Foreign-born population: 10.6%
- Median household income: $98,662 — the MA state median household income is $104,828
- Educational attainment: High school grads: 86.5% and Bachelor’s degree or higher: 38.5%
Dartmouth MA Crime Rate
The overall crime rate in Dartmouth is 1,456 per 100,000 people, 37.4% lower than the national average and 4.6% higher than the Massachusetts crime rate. Violent crime is especially rare, at 263 per 100,000 people — 28.9% below the national rate and 18% below the state rate. Property crime is slightly elevated at 1,193 per 100,000, which is 11.5% above the state average and 39% below the national average.
Is Dartmouth MA safe? Despite having higher property crime rates, living in Dartmouth MA is safe and family-friendly. Avoid becoming a victim of property crime by locking car doors, securing outdoor items, and storing bikes inside.
Learn about safety and the 68 officers serving the community. Visit the police department website.
Average Cost of Living in Dartmouth MA
To understand the Dartmouth MA cost of living, consider the larger Boston Metro area. The cost of living there is 46.5% above the national average. And while living in Darmouth MA is cheaper than Boston, it is still above the national average. It offers lower housing, grocery, and healthcare costs.
But how much does it cost to live in Dartmouth? Per the Economic Policy Institute’s information on Bristol County, a family of four must earn $121,814 per year to afford living in Dartmouth MA.
Next, consider the prices of everyday items. These numbers are based on Boston MA, which means when living in Dartmouth MA, prices will be lower.
Typical Dartmouth MA Living Expenses
- Milk (regular, 1 liter): $1.26
- Eggs (12, large size): $4.89
- Domestic beer (16.9 ounce bottle): $3.52
- Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $25.00
- Average Dartmouth MA utilities per month: $726
Dartmouth Housing Costs
Dartmouth MA real estate is competitive. The median home price in Dartmouth is $644,950—above the national median home price of $435,331—and the cost per square foot is $359. Demand for Dartmouth real estate is rising, likely due to its affordability relative to Boston. If you’re considering living in Dartmouth MA, search this list of houses for sale in Dartmouth MA.
Plan to rent? Average rent in Dartmouth for a 959 square foot, 1-bedroom apartment is $1,890 (based on information for neighboring New Bedford).
Dartmouth MA Neighborhoods
With its beautiful terrain and proximity to the ocean, you’ll find some of the best neighborhoods when living in Dartmouth MA.
Padanaram Village – Upscale, Historical Seaside Neighborhood
Located in South Dartmouth and known as “The Village” by locals. Padanaram Village is a historic seaside neighborhood nestled in Buzzard’s Bay and is home to the New Bedford Yacht Club. Residents enjoy sailing, local shops, and annual events like the Holiday Stroll and Buoy Tree celebration. Homes typically range from $800,000 to $3 million, and attract families and professionals seeking. It is one of the most desirable neighborhoods for people living in Dartmouth MA.
Nonquitt – Exclusive Gated Community
Nonquitt MA is a gated seaside community featuring private beaches and a golf course. A 19th-century coastal retreat enjoyed by famous residents such as American novelist Louisa May Alcott, it features classic shingle cottages and waterfront estates overlooking Buzzards Bay. Home prices often exceed $1 million, appealing to families and retirees living in Dartmouth MA, and seeking an exclusive New England coastal lifestyle.
Mishaum Point – Private Oceanfront Peninsula in South Dartmouth MA
Mishaum Point is a gated oceanfront neighborhood. It offers privacy, luxury, boating opportunities, and breathtaking views of Buzzards Bay. Mishaum Point features lavish coastal estates and is within walking distance of private beaches. Home prices range from $2 million to over $10 million, making it one of the most prestigious neighborhoods on Massachusetts’ South Coast.
Dartmouth MA Weather
The weather in Dartmouth MA is humid continental with four seasons. Summers are warm with highs around 80°F. Winters are chilly but moderate, with highs near 40°F. Dartmouth annual snowfall is about 30 inches; Dartmouth annual rainfall is 49 inches. Nor’easters occasionally pass through, but severe storms are rare when living in Dartmouth MA. Spring and fall are mild, making May through October the best time to visit Dartmouth MA.
Things to Do in Dartmouth MA
There are plenty of fun things to do when living in Dartmouth MA. Starting with shopping, Dartmouth Commons is a shopping center with major retailers like Target and Petco. Stop & Shop Dartmouth is a popular grocery store with a bakery and deli counter.
Dartmouth Mall
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Features 60+ popular stores, an AMC Theatre with recliners and a bar, a children’s play area, and several restaurants, making it a go-to shopping destination. Search the Dartmouth Mall directory for complete store listings.
200 N Dartmouth Mall, Dartmouth, MA 02747, 508-999-4535
DNRT Parsons Reserve Trailhead
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Parsons Reserve is one of the best outdoor activities in Dartmouth MA. It offers scenic nature trails, spring daffodil fields, and diverse wildlife along Destruction Brook. Visitors enjoy peaceful walks and picnics beneath beech trees.
Horseneck Rd, Dartmouth, MA 02748, 508-991-2289
Demarest Lloyd State Park
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Among the fun things to do in Dartmouth with kids, this 1,800-foot saltwater beach offers shallow waters, great fishing, and bird-watching. There’s also a picnic area for relaxing by the shore. Bring water shoes because the beach is rocky, but perfect for wading and exploring.
115 Barneys Joy Rd, Dartmouth, MA 02748, 508-636-3298
Additional Attractions in Dartmouth MA
Visit the Dartmouth Parks & Rec department website for more activities.
Dartmouth Restaurants
You’ll find some of the best restaurants in Dartmouth MA offering a variety of cuisines. When you’re finally living in Dartmouth MA, be sure to try:
Cask & Pig Kitchen and Alehouse
Cask and Pig is among the best restaurants in Dartmouth for comfort food, craft cocktails, and local brews. Crowd favorites include burgers, barbecue, and mac and cheese.
780 State Rd, Dartmouth, MA 02747, 774-992-0183
Joe’s Original
Joe’s Original is one of the family-friendly Dartmouth MA restaurants serving classic American and Italian dishes in a casual setting. Joe’s is known for its hearty portions, wood-fired pizzas, and attentive service.
61 State Rd, Dartmouth, MA 02747, 508-992-5637
Sail Loft
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A local favorite, the Sail Loft is one of the best places to eat in Dartmouth MA with waterfront views. It offers fresh seafood, coastal-inspired dishes, and a relaxed vibe and outdoor patio.
246 Elm St, South Dartmouth, MA 02748, 508-682-5638
Dartmouth Jobs
The largest industries in town and the surrounding area include healthcare, manufacturing, and maritime industries, thanks to its proximity to the ocean. Top employers in Dartmouth include UMass Dartmouth and Southcoast Health.
The average salary in Dartmouth is $77,000, and the average hourly wage is $22.58 (Payscale). Find jobs in Dartmouth MA on Indeed and other job opportunities when living in Dartmouth MA, on the Town of Dartmouth job board.
Dartmouth MA Schools
Dartmouth Public Schools is the main school district for the area that oversees several schools, such as Dartmouth Middle School and Dartmouth High School. There are private schools in Dartmouth MA, including Bishop Stang High School, a private Catholic school.
Colleges & Universities in Dartmouth MA:
- UMass Dartmouth: a public research university
- Bristol Community College: located in nearby Fall River
Be sure to explore the Darmouth MA public libraries, including the Southworth Library and North Branch Library.
Dartmouth MA Statistics & Information
- County: Bristol County
- Dartmouth area: 60.9 square miles
- Dartmouth zip code: 02747, 02748, 02714
- Dartmouth area code: 508, 774
- Dartmouth MA elevation: 125 ft
- Dartmouth MA time zone: Eastern Time Zone (UTC-5/UTC-4)
- Closest airport to Dartmouth MA: Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) is about 60 miles from Dartmouth.
Dartmouth MA FAQs
Q: Is Dartmouth MA a Good Place to Live?
A: Yes, living in Dartmouth MA is safe and a good place to live. With beaches, farmland, and good schools, Dartmouth is an excellent choice for families, retirees, and professionals looking for a slower pace of life.
Q: What Are the Pros and Cons of Moving to Dartmouth MA?
A: Living in Dartmouth MA is peaceful. It has good schools and a strong sense of community. However, the cost of living is higher than the national average, property crime is slightly above average, and public transit options are limited.
Q: How Far Is Dartmouth MA From Boston?
A: Dartmouth is about 57 miles from Boston. For easy access, the most direct route is via State Hwy 140 North and MA-24 N.
Dartmouth MA Map
Discover more things to do, restaurants, and shopping with this map.
Moving to Dartmouth?
With its scenic coastline, friendly neighborhoods, and plenty of things to do, living in Dartmouth MA is a wise choice, whether it’s in North Dartmouth MA or South Dartmouth. Ready to make your move?
Contact the best Dartmouth movers, Mass Bay Movers, today at 978-587-3775 for a free quote! We offer packing services, long distance moving, local moving, and more.
