Moving to Lowell

Are you considering a fresh start in the historic mill city known as Lowell, Massachusetts? Our detailed Lowell relocation guide is here to transform that daunting task into an enthralling adventure! Offering a dynamic blend of urban living, rich history, vibrant arts scene, and distinctive architecture, Lowell presents an irresistible appeal. But before you start packing, we're here to provide you with the ins and outs of moving to this charming New England city. Pack your curiosity and let's embark on a virtual journey to discover the treasures that this 'Spindle City' holds for its residents!

Moving to Lowell, MA landscape image

What to Know Before Moving to Lowell

1. Lots of History

Lowell is filled with history from the industrial revolution. It was one of the leading textile manufacturing cities in the 19th century and that history is still present today. You can find historic mills, canals, and even a National Historic Park that tells the story of Lowell's past. So if you're a history buff, Lowell will be like a treasure trove.

2. A Multicultural Haven

Lowell is a vibrant blend of cultures. With a diverse community of Cambodian, Hispanic, African, and Indian residents, you will have a unique opportunity to experience and celebrate a plethora of festivals, cuisines, and traditions. The city's annual Southeast Asian Water Festival and the Lowell Folk Festival are events you simply cannot miss!

3. It's a College Town

Home to the University of Massachusetts Lowell, this city displays a perfect blend of academic vigor and small-town charm. Expect to see the youthful energy of students everywhere, college sports, and community engagement programs. Plus, this brings in a great variety of restaurants, cafes, and cultural activities that cater to the college crowd.

4. An Art Lover's Paradise

Lowell is not just about historic mills and college life; it also has a thriving art scene. One of the best-kept secrets is the city's thriving arts community, featuring many art studios, galleries, and museums. In fact, the first Friday of each month is known as "First Thursdays", where artists open up their studios to the public to showcase their work.

5. It Has an Island!

Yes, you heard it right! Lowell owns a five-acre island called Hawk Island on the Merrimack River. It's not often that you hear of an island in the middle of a city, and it remains a unique feature of Lowell. This place serves as an urban oasis for nature lovers, offering a refreshing break from city life.

6. Versatile Food Scene

Because of its multicultural roots, Lowell boasts an impressive range of culinary options. From delectable Cambodian cuisine to mouth-watering Mexican fare, the city teems with flavourful surprises for foodies. While the city has countless places to eat, make sure to stop by Life Alive for some delicious, healthy food, or El Potro for some authentic Mexican.

Overall, Lowell, Massachusetts is a diverse, vibrant city steeped in history and culture. Whether you're seeking an urban experience thrumming with the rhythm of college-town life, or the tranquility of island seclusion, Lowell has plenty to offer. So pack your bags and get ready to be surprised and delighted by the multi-faceted city that is Lowell!

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Pros and Cons of Living in Lowell

Pros of Living in Lowell

Vibrant Cultural Scene

Lowell offers a rich cultural scene with multiple art galleries, music festivals, and craft fairs. From the Lowell Folk Festival that celebrates multicultural music, food, and crafts to the incredibly artistic studios in the Western Avenue, there is always something going on for culture enthusiasts and art lovers.

Historical Significance

Lowell is a city with a lot of history. It was at the heart of the Industrial Revolution in America and preserves this heritage through the Lowell National Historical Park, offering a fascinating journey into the past. For history buffs and people who appreciate historical architecture, Lowell offers a taste of history at every turn.

Great Education Opportunities

Lowell houses several top-rated schools and universities, including the University of Massachusetts, Lowell (UMass Lowell). Whether it's public schools, private institutions, or higher-education opportunities, you can be confident about getting quality education in this city.

Proximity to Big Cities

Lowell's location is relatively close to major cities like Boston and Cambridge, making it convenient for daily commuting, weekend escapes, or job opportunities. The Lowell Connector gets you directly onto the highway heading towards these cities, simplifying transportation.

Inclusion in the Green Community

Lowell is among the Massachusetts Green Communities, meaning it's committed to energy efficiency and renewable energy. For those looking to live in a sustainable and environmentally-conscious city, Lowell's focus on creating a greener future might be appealing.

Cons of Living in Lowell

Issues with Public Transportation

While Lowell's transportation system provides local bus services and commuter rail to Boston, schedules can be inflexible and coverage can be insufficient. For those relying on public transit, navigating Lowell could be a bit of a challenge.

Parking Challenges

Residents often talk about the challenges around parking in some parts of the city. High competition for parking spots, especially during special events or in the downtown area, often results in longer times finding parking and respecting restrictions.

Higher Than Average Crime Rate

Compared to some of the neighboring towns, Lowell has a higher-than-average crime rate. While the city has been working on improving safety, it's still something to consider when moving there.

Economic Disparity

While the city has been seeing a surge in development, there exist stark economic disparities in different parts of the city. Some areas are seeing constant development, while others show signs of stagnation and struggle.

Noisy Environment

For those who prefer a quieter environment, Lowell might not be the ideal choice. With numerous ongoing events, the city often bustles with noise and activity, which can be a pro for some but a con for others.

Modern day picture of Lowell, MA highlighting pros and cons of living in Lowell, MA

Is Lowell a Good Place to Live?


Lowell, MA is a great place to live because of its rich industrial history, lively arts scene, and top-notch educational institutions like the University of Massachusetts Lowell. It boasts charming neighborhoods, diverse dining options, and numerous outdoor activities given its beautiful parks and expansive river system. Plus, its next-to-nothing commute time to Boston is icing on the cake!


What Is Lowell Famous For?

Lowell's Historical Significance

At the dawning of the industrial revolution, Lowell made its name as a booming textiles town! Its mills are the blueprint of the revolutionary labor movement in the 19th century, paving the way for employee rights. The reshaping of the labor system started right here!

The Lowell National Historical Park

Want to be transported back to the early years of the industrial revolution? The Lowell National Historical Park is your time machine! With intricate canal systems, old mill buildings, and a Victorian-style trolley ride, it's the perfect history-infused excursion.

Lowell Folk Festival

Get ready to unleash your inner folk! Lowell is known for its annual Folk Festival, the largest free festival of its kind in the USA. Bustling with tunes, traditional cuisines, and craft demonstrations, it's a multi-cultural fiesta like no other.

Academic Hub: University of Massachusetts Lowell

Known for its impressive academic standing, University of Massachusetts Lowell (UMass Lowell) is not just an institution, but a monument defining the city's landscape. With a vibrant student community and rich culture of innovation, it's a seeker's paradise!

Capital building of Lowell, MA in artistic rendering

Overview of Tax Rates

Property Tax

As of 2023, the property tax rate in Lowell, MA is $14.12 for each $1,000 of home value, which is moderately high compared to other cities within the US where the average property tax rate is typically around $1.14. However, it is relatively low compared to other cities in the state of Massachusetts.

Sales Tax

Lowell, MA has a sales tax rate of 6.25% as of 2023. This is relatively average when compared to other US states, which have an average combined rate of approximately 7.12%. However, it's notably lower than nearby states like Connecticut and Rhode Island, which have rates above 7%.

Income Tax

The state income tax for residents of Lowell, MA, as of 2023 is a flat rate of 5%. While this is higher than states with no income tax, such as Texas and Florida, it's much lower than states with the highest income tax rates like California and New York, which have top rates over 9%.

Housing Market

The housing market in Lowell, MA comprises a blend of affordability and investment potential. Median home values in Lowell stand at approximately $320,000, significantly lower than the Massachusetts median. This presents viable investment opportunities and affordable real estate compared to other parts of the country. As for renters, around 65% of Lowell inhabitants rent their homes, revealing a robust rental market. Rent averages around $1,500 per month, making the city affordable relative to other popular Massachusetts locations. Both investors and potential residents should consider Lowell as a promising area.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Lowell, MA, generally measures below the national average, making it an attractively economical place to reside. Housing and health expenses are notably lower here than in many other US cities. However, like any city, living costs can escalate depending on the lifestyle one chooses. Compared to pricier Massachusetts locales like Boston, Lowell offers a more affordable alternative with similar cultural and educational benefits. Whether you're a young professional, a student or a retiree, Lowell's cost-effective living can provide a wallet-friendly living experience.

Weather & Natural Disasters

Lowell, MA, witnesses a pleasant blend of both warm and cold climates. Summers, although brief, are warm, while winters are freezing and partly cloudy. Rainfall in Lowell is significant, with precipitation even during its driest months. The city on an average experiences snowfall of about 51 inches annually, higher than the US median of 28 inches. The city's weather poses its challenges; the city being susceptible to adverse weather conditions, including blizzards and nor'easters, particularly during the winter. Furthermore, Lowell also experiences thunderstorms and heavy rains, leading to potential flood situations. Although not common, Lowell is not untouched by tornadoes, with records of such natural disasters in its history. Despite these environmental adversities, Lowell stands out for its beautiful landscapes, established infrastructure, and vibrant community making it a beloved city to live in or visit.

Typical weather in Lowell, MA

Economy & Job Market

* Education, Health, and Social Services

* Manufacturing

* Retail Trade

* Arts, Entertainment, Recreation, Accommodation, and Food Services

* Professional, Scientific, Management, Administrative, and Waste Management Services

A vivacious meltdown of historic richness and contemporary progress, Lowell, MA hosts an economy that dances to the tune of its diverse industrial sectors. Firmly rooted in its historic reputation as a robust textile manufacturing hub, Lowell continues to weave a significant portion of its economy around manufacturing, reaching beyond textiles to extend across a wide array of products. In sync with the city's evolution, the economy has also blossomed into a haven for education, healthcare, and social services, with the University of Massachusetts Lowell and Lowell General Hospital setting the tempo. Retail trade sways elegantly to the city's economic symphony, while arts, entertainment, and hospitality industries inject a lively rhythm, reflecting the city's vibrant cultural scene. Finally, one cannot ignore the beat of professional and scientific services that increasingly resonate within Lowell's diverse economic soundscape.

Eyeing Lowell, MA as their next home, job seekers can tap their feet to a merry employment beat! With an unemployment rate that typically hovers slightly above the national average, Lowell is far from a job desert. Quite the contrary; the city offers fertile ground for job pursuit, particularly within its thriving education, health, and social services sector. Picture yourself healing, teaching, or supporting the community, and chances are Lowell has the perfect job waiting just for you! Lay your job search map over Lowell's manufacturing terrain if you value creating tangible goodies, or explore the retail trade wilderness if customer engagement is more your style. Equally fruitful ground can be found in arts and hospitality or professional and scientific realms, depending on your passion and skillset. With this armory of knowledge up your sleeve, future Lowell newcomers can look forward to a productive job hunt in their cool, new city!

Traffic and Transportation

Life in Lowell, MA is full of delightful surprises! One of them is our breezy average commute time of just under 25 minutes--that's notably less than the national average! Let's hear it for a little extra shut-eye! Our city's traffic may ebb and flow, but Lowell has options aplenty to keep you on the move. Private autos, cabs, ride-sharing, bikes--we got it all, and it's only getting better with time!

Transit lovers, fear not! Lowell Regional Transit Authority has your back, with regular bus routes arcing all over the city and beyond. Want something a little faster? The Lowell Line Commuter Rail shoots straight into nearby Boston in a no hassle, no stress joyride. No parking, no problem!

And for those more distant adventures, Lowell's friendly neighborhood airport, Boston Logan International, is just a hop, skip, and 40-mile jump away. It's time to take that dream vacation! So, pack your bags, Lowellians--your traffic and transportation dreams are ready for takeoff!

What is the traffic like in Lowell, MA?

Best Neighborhoods in Lowell

1. Belvidere

If you were to pen a love letter to Lowell, you'd kick start it in Belvidere. This residential neighborhood is flush with history and charm, with the stately Victorian houses and peaceful, tree-lined streets to prove it. A stroll in this neighborhood is like stepping back in time. Whether you're sipping coffee at a locally-owned cafe or exploring the enchanting Shedd Park, you'll find Belvidere is bursting with small-town feel while still offering easy access to Lowell's downtown.

2. Downtown Lowell

Get ready to jive with the urban chic energy in Lowell's downtown. Bursting with entertainment venues, art galleries, museums, and top-notch restaurants, downtown Lowell is a cultural hotspot that puts you at the heart of it all. Indulge in theater, art, and history at the Lowell National Historical Park, or revel in the city's unique Music Scene -- there is really something for everyone! Downtown Lowell truly is a cultural hub, where old-world charm meets modern convenience.

3. Pawtucketville

Welcome to the neighborhood where Jack Kerouac, one of America's literary giants, grew up! Pawtucketville is a jewel hidden in plain sight. It touts a stretch of green goodness thanks to the Merrimack River and the Lowell-Dracut-Tyngsboro State Forest. If you love outdoor excursions, you'll feel right at home biking, kayaking, or walking the numerous trails here. And did we mention the neighborhood's distinct Franco-American heritage? Don't miss out on tasting the poutine!

4. The Acre

The Acre: it's multicultural, it's vibrant, and it's where you will get the sense of the world within a couple of blocks. This diverse neighborhood is home to a collection of eateries serving dishes from all corners of the world and will surely excite your taste buds. The Latin festivals, the Southeast Asian Water Festival, and the African Festival are just the beginnings of this neighborhood's cultural offerings. Bonus: It's the home to the University of Massachusetts Lowell, meaning there's never a shortage of energetic buzz in the air.

5. Back Central

And finally, we whisk you over to Back Central, a compact area that carries a whole load of character within its boundaries. Known for its affordable historic homes, Back Central is an excellent choice for newcomers. You can't help but admire the striking brick structures that give the area its unique aesthetic. With many highly-rated schools in close proximity and significant developments underway, Back Central is set to soar.

So there you have it--the top five neighborhoods in Lowell just begging you to call them home! As you can see, each neighborhood is unique and appealing in its way. From the historic charm of Belvidere and the energetic cultural hub of downtown, to the natural beauty in Pawtucketville, the diversity in The Acre, and the potential in Back Central, Lowell has a place for every taste. We can't wait to welcome you to your new home in Lowell!

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Things to Do

Welcome to Lowell, Massachusetts! A city steeped in history, Lowell is brimming with beautiful architecture, eclectic eateries, unique attractions and plenty of green spaces for you to explore and fall in love with. Here are seven top things to do when you move to this charming city.

1. Discover the Lowell National Historical Park

The Lowell National Historical Park is a must-visit for anyone moving to Lowell. It offers a unique glimpse into the city's rich industrial past through its well-preserved mills, canals, and Victorian-era buildings. Don't forget to hop on a canal boat tour and enjoy stunning views of the city in a way few people get to experience.

2. Savor Ethnic Cuisine in Little Cambodia

Walk down the streets of Lowell's Cambodia Town, home to the second-largest Cambodian-American population in the United States. Here, you can feast on mouth-watering traditional dishes at a host of restaurants. It's like taking a gastronomic journey across Cambodia, right in the heart of Lowell.

3. Get Cultured at the New England Quilt Museum

This may come as a surprise, but Lowell is home to the only museum in the Northeast dedicated entirely to the art and craft of quilt-making. The New England Quilt Museum showcases eye-catching and intricate quilts dating from the 18th century to the present. The museum also runs hands-on workshops, perfect for crafting enthusiasts and those looking to pick up a new skill.

4. Take a Spin around Kerouac Park

Named after the iconic Beat Generation writer Jack Kerouac, who was born in Lowell, this park is a unique literary pilgrimage. Urban and visually stimulating, the park features granite columns inscribed with excerpts from Kerouac's writings. Lose yourself in the writer's words while basking in the park's tranquil ambiance.

5. Explore the Ayer Mansion

Now, here's a lesser-known gem! The Ayer Mansion may not be on most tourists' radars, but it sure is a treasure trove to explore. Built in the late 1800s for the successful patent medicine entrepreneur Frederick Ayer, this imposing piece of architecture is steeped in history and grandeur. Discovering its stories and secrets is an experience in itself.

6. Sip Local Brews at the Navigation Brewing Company

A haven for craft beer lovers, Navigation Brewing Company is a fantastic place to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. With a rotating tap list of flavorful brews and an inviting, laid-back atmosphere, it's a great place to familiarize yourself with the city's vibrant local beer scene.

7. Browse Through the Whistler House Museum of Art

Did you know that the famous American-British artist James McNeill Whistler was born in Lowell? The Whistler House Museum of Art, his birthplace, now showcases extraordinary works of art from local and international artists. The museum also conducts various art appreciation and creation workshops that are well worth checking out.

There you have it - seven top things to do in Lowell, MA. Packed with history, culture, and fantastic food, this appealing city welcomes newcomers with open arms. So go ahead and explore, savor, and dive into all the unique experiences that Lowell has to offer. Enjoy your wonderful adventure!

Things to do in Lowell, MA?

Find Movers for Your Lowell Relocation

Just imagine already relishing the rich history, arts scene, and vibrant culture of Lowell with the peace of mind that your move is securely handled. Turn this anticipation into action by reaching out to Great Guys Moving. Over our many years in the industry, we've nurtured an enviable network of licensed, insured, and affordable moving companies eager to assist your transition. Whether looking for quality service or speedy quotes, entrust Great Guys Moving to make the process much smoother. Your upcoming move to Lowell is a click away from being stress-free. So why wait? Request a free moving quote now.

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