OnAmherst.com
Charming college town with rich history and vibrant culture.
About Amherst, MA
Amherstβs economy is primarily driven by the education sector, yet it offers more than just academia. The town thrives with cultural events, local shops, and community initiatives that add to its unique charm. The various attractions range from the stunning natural beauty of the nearby Mount Holyoke Range to the Emily Dickinson Museum, reflecting the town's literary heritage. Itβs a beloved destination for those who enjoy outdoor activities, from hiking to snowshoeing, as well as for art and literature enthusiasts who can explore its various museums and cultural institutions.
Despite its size, Amherst maintains a diverse community that appreciates sustainability, arts, and local traditions. The town offers a high quality of life with excellent educational programs, a commitment to environmental conservation, and a welcoming, student-friendly atmosphere. With a mixture of rural and urban character, Amherst continues to attract visitors and residents alike who are drawn to its historic charm, cultural vibrancy, and strong community spirit.
Quality of Life Scores
Data-driven insights into what makes Amherst special
Quality of life scores are aggregated from publicly available data sources including the U.S. Census Bureau, FBI Crime Statistics, EPA Air Quality Index, walkability studies, and local municipal data. Scores are calculated on a 0-100 scale and updated periodically to reflect current conditions.
Demographics & Economy
Understanding the community and economic landscape
Demographics
Amherst is a diverse, student-oriented community with a progressive ethos and an emphasis on education and culture.
Economy
Strong economic foundation driven by diverse industries including education, healthcare, retail, arts and culture, agriculture.
Housing
Real estate market offers opportunities for residents and investors with balanced housing options across neighborhoods.
Education Excellence
World-class learning opportunities and achievements
Education Levels
Institutions
- Schools: 5
- Universities: 3
- Libraries: 2
- Student-Teacher Ratio: 13.4:1
Sports & Entertainment
Home to professional and collegiate athletics
College & Development
Major Venues
McGuirk Alumni Stadium: 17,400
Transportation & Infrastructure
Getting around Amherst
Roads & Highways
Major Highways: US-202, MA-9, MA-116
Average Commute: 23 minutes
Public Transit
PVTA
Airports
BDL - Bradley International
Places & Attractions
Discover what makes Amherst unique
Landmarks
- Emily Dickinson Museum
- Amherst College
- University of Massachusetts Amherst
- Mead Art Museum
Attractions
- Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art
- Mount Holyoke Range State Park
- Beneski Museum of Natural History
Museums
- Emily Dickinson Museum
- Mead Art Museum
- Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art
- Beneski Museum of Natural History
Parks
- Amethyst Brook Conservation Area
- Mount Holyoke Range State Park
- Groff Park
Healthcare
- Cooley Dickinson Hospital
- UMass Amherst University Health Services
Key Industries
Economic drivers powering Amherst
Living Here
Essential information about life in Amherst
Climate & Geography
Climate: Humid Continental
Elevation: 295 feet
Time Zone: America/New_York
County: Hampshire County
Metro Area: Springfield, MA Metro Area
Contact Information
Area Code: 413
ZIP Codes: 01002, 01003
Location
Find Amherst on the map
Acquire This Complete Media Portal
Turn-key local media platform ready for launch. Contact us to discuss acquisition opportunities.