Thinking of moving to Townsend, Massachusetts, a quiet New England town known for its rich history, vibrant community, and outdoor beauty? The best part of living in Townsend MA is the strong sense of community and charming tree-lined streets.
The area of Townsend was originally named Wistequassuck by the Native Americans who lived there before the first Europeans arrived in 1676. The town prospered, and with the Industrial Revolution in the 18th century, a harbour was created and mills were built along the Squannacook River. Townsend became known as a manufacturing hub, with a railway built in 1846. Since then, the town has quieted down and become a rural haven and a great place to live.
Let’s dive into what makes living in Townsend MA special and what you need to know before moving.
Where Is Townsend MA?
Townsend MA is a small town in Middlesex County, located in northern Massachusetts. The area has plenty of rural charm and natural beauty while having access to larger cities. The Willard Brook State Forest lies to the west, the Squannacook Brook State Forest to the east, with the beautiful Squannacook River running through town. Conveniently located, Townsend MA to Fitchburg is 9 miles. Fitchburg is where you can find more extensive shopping, dining, and healthcare options than in Townsend. From Townsend MA to Boston is 51 miles.
The town offers a narrow range of amenities, including one country store and a few restaurants. Public transport in Townsend MA is available for the commuters, with the Townsend Commuter Shuttle that operates on demand, connecting the town with Fitchburg. From Fitchburg, the MBTA Fitchburg Line connects directly to Boston North Station. While the bus system is reliable, most residents living in Townsend MA rely on cars for daily transportation.
Townsend MA Population and Demographics
The population living in Townsend MA is 9,127, having grown by just 2.2% since 2010. With a population density of 280 people per square mile, Townsend maintains a nice rural feel surrounded by woods.
Demographic data for the population living in Townsend MA:
- 49% male and 51% female.
- 21% of the population is younger than 18 years old, which is about the same as the national average of 21.7%, and 16.4% are aged 65 or older, slightly below the national average of 17.7%.
- Median age in Townsend MA is 42 years.
- The Townsend MA median household income is $120,238, about 20% higher than the median household income in Massachusetts. Around 7.2% of the population living in Townsend MA are below the poverty line.
- The racial and ethnic composition of people living in Townsend MA is very diverse, with 87% White, 4% Hispanic or Latino, 3% Asian, and 3% Black.
- The education level is high —95.6% of the adult residents have graduated from high school, and 37.7% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.
- The average household size is 3.05 persons, well above the national average of 2.54.
Townsend MA ranks far below both national and Massachusetts crime averages, with very few violent or property crimes.There has not been a homicide for almost 40 years in Townsend MA. The residents are served and protected by the local Townsend Police Department.
Townsend MA Cost of Living
The cost of living in Townsend MA is above the national average. The recommended budget for a family of four in Fitchburg is at least $10.339 per month. The average cost of living in Townsend MA is about 18% higher than the national average, but lower than the Massachusetts average.
Typical Expenses Living in Townsend MA *
- 1 meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $19.00
- 1 gallon of milk: $3.20
- Loaf of fresh white bread: $1.99
- 1 pound of apples: $1.26
- 1 pound of potatoes: $0.74
- 1 gallon of gasoline: $3.18
- Average utilities in Townsend MA per month: $188.57
Source: Numbeo
*Prices are for Lowell as statistics for Townsend are not available.
Townsend MA Real Estate
Before considering moving to Townsend MA, it’s important to know that the real estate market is relatively small, with only a limited number of homes typically available for sale. The median price for homes for sale in Townsend MA is around $413,000, slightly below the national median of $438,357.
Most properties are single-family homes, and many neighborhoods feature charming old houses, offering the opportunity to own a colonial gem dating back to the 19th century. Currently, only a handful of properties for sale in Townsend MA.
The average price per square foot for older homes in Townsend ranges from approximately $200 to $300, while new homes for sale in Townsend MA are more expensive.
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Homes for rent in Townsend MA make up about 50% of the local housing stock, with most of the units in older buildings. According to RentCafe, the average rent for Townsend MA apartments is $1,599.
Climate and Weather Townsend MA
Townsend is located in northern Massachusetts, surrounded by gently rolling hills and dense forests. The town sits at an elevation of 315 feet above sea level.
The area has a hot-summer humid continental climate, with four clearly defined seasons. Summers are usually hot and humid, while winters are snowy and scenic, though occasionally disrupted by severe storms.
The best time to visit Townsend is in the fall, when temperatures are crisp and pleasant, and the foliage transforms into vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow.
July is the warmest month, with average daily highs around 83°F. January is the coldest month, with average daily lows of 13°F. It snows in Townsend MA —the winters get an average of 59 inches of snow a year.
Things to Do in Townsend MA
Living in Townsend MA offers a charming blend of classic New England character, stress-free living, and a rich sense of history, all within a close-knit, family-friendly community. While Townsend is a quiet place, it provides easy access to the conveniences of nearby larger cities and offers plenty of fun both in town and in the surrounding area.
In this tight-knit community, it’s common to know your neighbors by name. The main shopping hub is Harbor Village Shopping Center, the go-to spot for everyday essentials. There, you’ll find a pharmacy, food options, and other shops. There is even a Planet Fitness Townsend MA!
Willard Brook State Forest
The peaceful Willard Brook State Forest spans over 2,000 acres west of Townsend. It offers a great experience with pine and hardwood forests and plenty of water. Explore hiking trails, camping, fishing, swimming in Damon Pond, horseback riding, and mountain biking.
There are plenty of other parks in and around Townsend for nature lovers. When you’re ready to explore Townsend’s trails, forests, and outdoor spots, BetterTrips makes it easy to book a stay close to the activities you enjoy most.
599 Main St, West Townsend, MA 01474, (978) 597-8802
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Townsend Rod & Gun Club
A wide range of outdoor activities, including rifle, pistol, and trap shooting, makes it a hub for sportsmen and outdoor enthusiasts
46 Emery Rd, Townsend, MA 01469
Squannacook River Rail Trail
For exercise enthusiasts, the Squannacook River Rail Trail offers a 3.7-mile crushed‑stone trail ideal for running, biking, and cross-country skiing. The trail is off-limits to traffic and immersed in nature.
Townsend, MA 01469, United States
Townsend NV Restaurants
There are a few restaurants in Townsend, several fast food chains, and a couple of donut shops. The restaurants offer casual food in welcoming environments.
Bailey’s Bar & Grille
Bailey’s Townsend MA has a casual and welcoming setting with a nice outdoor patio. Highlights on the menu include Scali Scampi Primavera, Chicken Parmigiana, and any cocktail by the excellent bartenders. Don’t miss the prime ribs—a customer favorite.
18 Main St, Townsend, MA 01469, (978) 812-0200
Townsend House Restaurant and Tavern
Family-owned restaurant in a 1870s building with an old‑world New England tavern feel. Live music. Serving up a tasty menu full of fresh flavors. Crowd favorites include homemade onion rings, the baked-stuffed haddock, and French onion soup.
2 Depot St, Townsend, MA 01469, (978) 597-2759
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Cliff’s Cafe
Classic American diner-style in a laid-back setting. The go-to place for breakfast with poached eggs, apple‑cinnamon pancakes, and burgers on the menu. Arrive earlier on weekends to avoid a wait!
266 Main St, Townsend, MA 01469, (978) 597-2782
Townsend MA Best Schools
Moving to Townsend MA with your family? You’ll be part of the North Middlesex Regional School District, a small and close-knit district serving Townsend and neighboring towns. The district includes an elementary school, a middle school, and a regional high school.
Spaulding Memorial Elementary School ranks highly within the district, while Hawthorne Brook Middle School boasts an excellent 11:1 teacher-to-student ratio. North Middlesex Regional High School is ranked among the top 20% of high schools in Massachusetts, with a strong graduation rate of 95% among its 750 students.
In addition to public schools, several private schools are located in the towns near Townsend. The highly rated Townsend library offers great resources, helping kids stay engaged and continue learning beyond the classroom.
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Jobs Townsend MA
The North Middlesex Regional School District is one of the top employers in Townsend, MA. With few large companies based in town, many residents commute for work, with an average commute of 39 minutes.
While Townsend has a few private businesses offering office jobs, such as TLS Printing, most local employment is in retail and service industries.
According to PayScale, the average base salary in Townsend MA is approximately $83,000 per year. If you’re job hunting, the latest openings can typically be found on job sites like Indeed.
Townsend MA Statistics and Information
- Townsend MA County: Middlesex, Massachusetts
- Townsend MA area: 1.7 square miles
- Townsend MA zip code: 01469 and 01474
- Townsend MA area code: 978
- Townsend MA time zone: Eastern Time Zone (UTC -4 and -5)
- The closest national airport is Boston Logan International Airport, 52 miles away
Map of Townsend Massachusetts
You will find this map helpful when exploring more about living in Townsend MA.
Ready for Living in Townsend MA
Townsend offers low crime rates, a charming, family-friendly atmosphere, and highly rated schools—making it an excellent location to raise children or settle down.
Does living in Townsend MA tempt you, but worried about the stressful moving experience? Or are you searching for a reliable moving company you can trust? Townsend MA movers is a full-service moving company that provides long-distance moving services, efficient packing, local moves, unpacking services, and secure storage solutions—you name it.
With over 2,000 safe and successful moves completed each year, Townsend MA Movers is ready to make your transition smooth and hassle-free. Call (978) 587‑3775 now for a free estimate.
