South Lancaster, MA
Population 1,991 · Massachusetts
About South Lancaster, MA
South Lancaster is a small town located in Massachusetts with a population of 1,991 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $104,745 per year, which is 39% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 38.9 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in South Lancaster features a median home value of $370,200, which is 51% above the national median of $244,900. This places South Lancaster in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 830 total housing units, 74% are owner-occupied (580 units) and 26% are renter-occupied (200 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in South Lancaster shows an unemployment rate of 17.1%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 4.1%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in South Lancaster have an average one-way commute time of 40.4 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
64.6% of South Lancaster residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This significantly higher educational attainment rate often correlates with access to knowledge-economy jobs and higher household incomes. The community's demographic composition includes 2.7% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 5.7% Black or African American, and 2.6% Asian residents, with 4.2% of the population being foreign-born.
How South Lancaster Ranks in Massachusetts
Cost of Living in South Lancaster, MA
Compared to national averages, South Lancaster has a median household income of $104,745 (39% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $370,200, which is 51% above the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Massachusetts, South Lancaster's income is 1% below the state average of $105,630, and home values are 34% below the state median of $561,296.
Why Live in South Lancaster, MA?
South Lancaster offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $104,745, well above the national average, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and a well-educated community where 64.6% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 4.1%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $370,200. However, South Lancaster’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
South Lancaster has a population of 1,991 with a median age of 38.9 years. Compare South Lancaster with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Massachusetts.
Similar Cities Near South Lancaster
Cities in Massachusetts with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| East Pepperell | 1,984 | $111,736 | $415,200 | Compare |
| Hanson | 2,002 | $115,109 | $490,700 | Compare |
| Harwich Port | 2,011 | $64,813 | $654,900 | Compare |
| North Eastham | 1,958 | $80,375 | $641,200 | Compare |
| Great Barrington | 1,953 | $57,071 | $459,000 | Compare |
| Dennis | 1,903 | $127,292 | $835,300 | Compare |
| Pepperell | 1,887 | $76,196 | $399,700 | Compare |
| White Island Shores | 1,880 | $104,940 | $366,800 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Massachusetts
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare South Lancaster With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about South Lancaster
What is the population of South Lancaster, MA?
The population of South Lancaster, MA is 1,991 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Massachusetts.
What is the median household income in South Lancaster?
The median household income in South Lancaster, MA is $104,745 per year, which is 39% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in South Lancaster?
The median home value in South Lancaster, MA is $370,200, which is 51% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in South Lancaster?
The median monthly rent in South Lancaster, MA is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in South Lancaster?
The unemployment rate in South Lancaster, MA is 17.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is South Lancaster, MA a good place to live?
South Lancaster offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,991 and a median age of 38.9, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is South Lancaster, MA?
64.6% of residents in South Lancaster aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in South Lancaster?
Key cost-of-living indicators for South Lancaster, MA: median home value is $370,200 (51% above national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $104,745. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.5x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in South Lancaster?
The poverty rate in South Lancaster, MA is 4.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is South Lancaster, MA?
South Lancaster's population is 2.7% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 5.7% Black or African American, 2.6% Asian, and 0.9% two or more races. 4.2% of residents are foreign-born.