Save This c.1900 Massachusetts Mansion For Sale $42K

Save This c.1900 Massachusetts Mansion For Sale. This historic home is in need of some love. So much potential and timeless charm in this house. Bring it back to life and make it a home.

130 Church St, North Adams, MA 01247    $42,000

• Contact Realtor: Pam Tworig
• Google Map
• Niche

*

Built in 1900, this home was the First Baptist Church parsonage for more than 50 years, and seems to have remained intact as a family home into the 1970s. The Arnold lot had a large apartment house that the city declared a nuisance and ordered demolished nearly 20 years ago. The Reverend James Foster Wilcox lived in the home in the 1910s.

*

*

Pros

• Affordability Compared to MA

• Cost of living is around 24–25% lower than the Massachusetts average and slightly below the U.S. average.

• Median home price falls between $150K–$185K, well under state average; typical rent is about $1,200–1,300/month, which is significantly lower than the state average.

• Vibrant Cultural & Arts Scene

• Home to MASS MoCA, one of the largest contemporary art museums in the U.S., playing a central role in community revitalization and tourism

• Complemented by local galleries, niche events like Fresh Grass Festival, and active community programming.

• Access to Outdoors & Scenic Beauty

• Located in the Berkshire Mountains, near Mount Greylock, with access to the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail and Natural Bridge State Park—excellent for hiking, biking, and nature.

• University Presence & Community Energy

• Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) adds cultural events, educational resources, and youthful energy to the town.

• Local festivals, farmers’ markets, and public gatherings foster a community-oriented vibe.

• Short Commutes in a Small Town

• Residents average a ~17-minute commute, mostly driving—traffic is light and downtown is walkable.

---

Cons

• Elevated Crime & Local Safety Concerns

• Crime rates (both property and violent crime) are above state and national averages, earning North Adams low safety ratings.

• Reddit users report issues with drug activity and advise avoiding certain areas after dark

• Limited Job Market & Low Income Levels

• Local economy focuses on tourism, arts, education, and healthcare. High-paying and technical jobs are scarce.

• Median household income is around $48K–$49K, about 25–30% below the national average; poverty rate ~14–15%

• Education System Has Mixed Reviews

• North Adams Public Schools and Drury High School earn average ratings (C to C+), with test scores in reading and math below state norms.

• While one parent praised local elementary schools, others note inconsistency and limited outcomes.

• Sparse Amenities & Needed Transportation

• Few amenities such as shopping, entertainment, or chain stores within walking distance. Major retailers like malls are 20–60 minutes away by car.

• Public transit is limited (hourly BRTA service); remote areas or winter reliance on cars is common.

• Weather & Remoteness

• Harsh New England winters (frequent sub‑zero temps and heavy snow). Summers are pleasant but brief.

• Isolated location: Albany airport ≈ 1 hour away; Boston ~3 hours; Pittsfield ~20 minutes.

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*