Berkshire County Real Estate and Livability Trends
Berkshire County, Massachusetts has shown a significant rise in average taxable income per tax return, from $56,650.03 in 2013 to $85,735.12 by 2021, suggesting economic growth. The upward trend in median home values, moving from $204,700 in 2015 to $266,400 in 2022, alongside doubled real estate taxes, hints at escalating property values. Additionally, the county's lower student-to-teacher... Read more
Berkshire County Market Trends
Median home values in Berkshire County, Massachusetts have gradually increased from $204,700 in 2015 to $266,400 in 2022, showing a steadier trend compared to the state's sharper rise from $333,100 to $483,900. Residential energy tax credits saw significant peaks, hitting $4913.89 in 2018, indicating fluctuating interest in energy-efficient investments. Real estate taxes nearly doubled over the... Read more
Median Value of Occupied Housing Units in Berkshire County, Massachusetts Over the Last 8 Years
Over the past eight years, median home values in Berkshire County, Massachusetts have seen a gradual increase from $204,700 in 2015 to $266,400 in 2022. This growth, though slower than the state average where values soared from $333,100 to $483,900 in the same period, suggests a more stable yet promising investment climate. Nationally, home values have risen from $125,500 to $179,400, reflecting broader market trends but at a pace that's less pronounced compared to Berkshire County. For investors, this could point to a region with potential for growth without the volatility seen in other parts of the country.
Residential Energy Tax Credit Per Tax Return in Berkshire County, MA Over the Last 9 Years
Berkshire County, Massachusetts has seen substantial fluctuations in residential energy tax credits per tax return over the past nine years. From a modest $466.06 in 2013, the average credit spiked sharply, peaking at an impressive $4913.89 in 2018 before easing down to $1608.13 in 2021. This trend suggests cyclical interest in energy-efficient investments and varying degrees of state or federal incentives. For potential investors, insurers, and real estate developers, such volatility could indicate changing policy impacts and homeowner investment behaviors in renewable energy improvements, which can also influence property values and insurance considerations.
Average Real Estate Taxes Per Tax Return in Berkshire County, MA Over the Last 10 Years
Over the past decade, average real estate taxes in Berkshire County, Massachusetts have exhibited a clear upward trajectory, escalating from $4,287.16 in 2012 to $7,865.74 by 2021. This rising trend, with a particularly notable surge between 2017 and 2020, suggests escalating property values or tax rate adjustments. For potential investors, developers, and property buyers, this trend could imply higher future costs, but also suggests a possible appreciation in property value. Appraisers and insurers might consider these tax increases when assessing property worth and risk assessments in Berkshire County.
Percentage of Farm Returns in Berkshire County, MA Over the Last 10 Years
Farm tax returns serve as an indicator of agricultural activity in an area, reflecting income generated by farming operations. In Berkshire County, Massachusetts, the percentage of farm returns has shown a slight but notable fluctuation over the last decade, hitting a low of approximately 0.42% in 2013 and peaking around 0.48% in 2016. While the numbers appear small, they can offer valuable insights for potential investors, new residents, and developers looking to understand the economic landscape of the county. Despite the modest figures, steady farm activity suggests a stable, albeit niche, agricultural sector which could be crucial for local food production and rural economy stability.
Number of Mortgages by Occupancy Type in Berkshire County, MA Over the Last 5 Years in Berkshire County
Over the past five years in Berkshire County, Massachusetts, mortgages for principal residences have consistently dominated the market, showing a significant number compared to investment properties and second residences. Notably, there was a peak in 2021 with 6,345 mortgages issued for principal residences, while both investment properties and second residences saw smaller, relatively stable numbers. Understanding trends in occupancy type can be crucial; for investors and real estate agents, recognizing a high demand for principal residences could indicate a strong local economy and family-oriented community, while a stable investment property market might signal steady rental income potential. Appraisers and insurance agents might use these trends to assess property values and risks accurately, especially as shifts in occupancy types can lead to changes in neighborhood dynamics and infrastructure needs.
Economic Outlook
Berkshire County, Massachusetts, has witnessed a notable increase in average taxable income per tax return from $56,650.03 in 2013 to $85,735.12 by 2021, suggesting growing economic vitality. Rising state and local income taxes, which jumped from $6,195.29 in 2012 to $16,670.70 in 2021, may indicate a stronger economic base or evolving tax policies. The county's total tax liability per tax return also increased from $8,998.23 in 2012 to around $15,064.62 in 2021, potentially signaling a... Read more
Average Taxable Income per Tax Return in Berkshire County, MA over the last 9 years
Berkshire County, Massachusetts, has seen a notable increase in average taxable income per tax return over the past nine years, starting from roughly $56,650.03 in 2013 and climbing to approximately $85,735.12 by 2021. This upward trend indicates a growing economic vitality in the region, which could be a significant factor for potential investors, property developers, and real estate agents. The substantial income growth is an encouraging sign for those considering building properties or moving to Berkshire County, as it suggests an increasingly affluent community and a potentially competitive real estate market. This may also influence property appraisals and insurance premiums, making it essential for appraisers and insurance agents to stay updated with these trends.
Average State and Local Income Taxes Per Tax Return in Berkshire County, MA Over the Last 10 Years
Over the past decade, Berkshire County, Massachusetts has seen a significant increase in average state and local income taxes per tax return, growing from approximately $6,195.29 in 2012 to potentially $16,670.70 in 2021. The most notable jumps occurred from 2017 onwards, with taxes more than doubling between 2017 and 2018, and continuing to rise sharply each subsequent year. This trend may suggest a growing economic base or changes in tax policy, presenting both challenges and opportunities for those considering investing, moving to, or building property in the area.
Average Total Tax Liability Per Tax Return in Berkshire County, MA Over the Last 10 Years
Over the past decade, Berkshire County, Massachusetts has seen a notable increase in average total tax liability per tax return, rising from approximately $8,998.23 in 2012 to around $15,064.62 in 2021. This steady growth may suggest a combination of escalating incomes, property values, or taxation policies. For potential investors, real estate agents, and insurance agents, these figures could signal an evolving economic environment that may affect property values and the cost of living. Higher tax liabilities might reflect a prosperous area, potentially translating to robust real estate markets and investment opportunities.
Cost of Living in Berkshire County
| Family Size | Housing | Food | Heath Care | Child Care | Taxes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 adults 4 children | $1,763 | $1,749 | $1,765 | $2,299 | $2,048 |
| 1 adult 4 children | $1,763 | $1,429 | $1,336 | $2,299 | $2,150 |
| 2 adults 3 children | $1,763 | $1,429 | $1,538 | $2,299 | $1,775 |
| 1 adult 3 children | $1,763 | $1,167 | $1,109 | $2,299 | $1,889 |
| 2 adults 2 children | $1,405 | $1,170 | $1,311 | $2,007 | $1,416 |
| 1 adult 2 children | $1,405 | $874 | $882 | $2,007 | $1,434 |
| 2 adults 1 child | $1,405 | $925 | $1,084 | $1,059 | $1,134 |
| 1 adult 1 child | $1,405 | $597 | $655 | $1,059 | $1,034 |
| 2 adults | $1,093 | $743 | $857 | $0 | $827 |
| 1 adult | $940 | $405 | $428 | $0 | $653 |
Safety trends & Data
Berkshire County, Massachusetts has experienced a general decrease in property crimes over the last five years, despite fluctuations in specific categories. Larceny-theft typically had the highest numbers, dipping to 160.00 in 2020 before increasing again. Vandalism and burglary trends were more erratic, with vandalism peaking at 83.00 in both 2020 and 2022. While motor vehicle thefts remained low, there was a slight uptick to 14.00 in 2022. Forgery and embezzlement are minor but noteworthy for... Read more
Property Crime Trends in Berkshire County, MA Over the Last 5 Years
Berkshire County, Massachusetts has seen a general decrease in property crimes over the last five years, with significant fluctuations in specific categories. Notably, larceny-theft consistently recorded the highest numbers, though it dipped to 160.0 in 2020 before rising again. Vandalism and burglary have been more variable, with vandalism peaking at 83.0 in both 2020 and 2022. Motor vehicle thefts remained relatively low but saw a slight increase to 14.0 in 2022. Instances of forgery and embezzlement appear to be minor in comparison but notable for potential investors concerned about financial crimes. This nuanced landscape of property crimes is crucial for real estate buyers, appraisers, and insurance agents who need to assess risk accurately in Berkshire County.
Demographics
In Berkshire County, Massachusetts, females slightly outnumber males in the adult population, possibly hinting at gender-focused opportunities or challenges in the region. Education levels reveal a diverse populace, with a notable proportion holding high school diplomas and bachelor's degrees, suggesting a workforce with a balance of foundational and advanced skills. Age distribution exhibits a significant number of residents aged 55 and over, which might influence local healthcare services and... Read more
Race Distribution in Berkshire County, Massachusetts (2022)
Educational Attainment in Berkshire County, Massachusetts (2022)
Age Distribution in Berkshire County, Massachusetts
Citizen Population in Berkshire County, Massachusetts (2022)
Political Trends & Data
In Berkshire County, Massachusetts, the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election saw a strong Democratic leaning with around 72% of votes. Republicans managed roughly 25%, while minor parties like the Libertarians and Greens captured less than 2%. This predominantly liberal trend might shape local policies and political strategies down the... Read more
Percentage of Votes in the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election by Party
In Berkshire County, Massachusetts, voting trends for the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election leaned significantly towards the Democratic Party, capturing approximately 72% of the vote. Republicans garnered around 25%, indicating a substantial preference for Democratic policies among the electorate. Minor parties such as the Libertarians and Greens received minimal support, each securing less than 2% of the total vote. This data might suggest that Berkshire County's political landscape is predominantly liberal, which could influence local policy decisions and party strategies in future elections.
25.17% of voters voted for the Republican party in the 2020 Presidential Election
72.04% of voters voted for the Democrat party in the 2020 Presidential Election
1.29% of voters voted for the Livertarian party in the 2020 Presidential Election
0.65% of voters voted for the Green party in the 2020 Presidential Election
0.85% of voters voted for the Other party in the 2020 Presidential Election
School Data
Berkshire County, Massachusetts has consistently boasted a lower student-to-teacher ratio than the national average of 14:1. Starting at 11:1 in 2014 and dipping to below 10:1 in 2021, the ratio reflects a more personalized education environment, especially during the pandemic. The trend, settling at 10:1 in 2023, could indicate a higher quality of education, appealing to families and potentially influencing property values and demand. Such metrics are crucial for appraisers, real estate... Read more
Student-to-teacher ratio in Berkshire County, Massachusetts over the last 10 years
Berkshire County, Massachusetts has seen its student-to-teacher ratio fluctuate over the past decade, staying consistently lower than the national average of 14 students per teacher. Starting at 11 students per teacher in 2014, it dipped to below 10 in 2021, reflecting a more personalized educational environment during the height of the pandemic. Though it spiked to nearly 12 in 2022, it settled back to 10 in 2023. Lower student-to-teacher ratios could suggest a more favorable teaching environment and potentially higher quality education, which might appeal to families considering a move to the area as well as investors focusing on the educational sector. For appraisers, real estate agents, and insurance agents, these trends might signify an area's attractiveness to young families, likely influencing property values and demand.
