Is Athol a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Athol receives an overall livability score of 3.5 out of 5.0, earning a grade of B+. Key strengths include low unemployment, affordable housing, a low poverty rate, high health insurance coverage. Areas to be aware of include below-average incomes, long commute times. Athol offers a solid quality of life with a good balance of affordability, safety, and opportunity.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Athol is $59,063, 21% below the national average of $75,149. The job market is very strong with unemployment at just 0.0%. Only 3.2% of residents live below the poverty line, well below the national rate of 12.4%. Workers commute an average of 58 minutes, longer than the typical American commute of 28 minutes.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Athol is $66,400, 76% below the national median — offering relatively affordable homeownership. At just 1.1x median income, home prices are very affordable relative to local earnings.
Education
2.4% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 82.9% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 5.8/10.
Climate & Weather
Athol experiences four distinct seasons with an average temperature of 53°F. Winters average 27°F in January while summers reach 79°F in July. Annual precipitation totals 26.1 inches, including 18.3 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 39.