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ASHBURNHAM HOUSING SURVEY Revision 10/30/2020
The Town of Ashburnham has requested assistance from the Montachusett Regional Planning Commission (MRPC) to update its Housing Production Plan (HPP) and Housing Chapter of the Master Plan. The purpose of the HPP is to develop a proactive strategy for planning and developing affordable housing and is required to include a comprehensive housing needs assessment, a list of affordable housing goals, and an implementation plan to realize the goals. The Housing Chapter of the Master Plan identifies and analyzes existing and future housing needs and objectives including programs for the preservation, improvement, and development of housing. This chapter shall identify policies and strategies to provide a balance of local housing opportunities for all citizens.
This survey has been developed to assist with the housing needs assessment and solicit public input to be included in the HPP and Master Plan Chapter. We appreciate your opinions and will present the results of this survey at a Planning Board meeting later in the fall.
Below are some demographic statistics for Ashburnham
Median age has increased from 32.9 years in 1990 to 39.5 years in 2018, a 20% increase.
The 55-74 age group has increased 161% since 2000.
The 75+ age group is expected to increase 170% by 2040.
The 25-34 age group has decreased 35% since 1990.
9.7% of the population is estimated to have a disability.
28% of homeowners with a mortgage and 23% of renters are paying more than 30% of their income on housing. This is considered cost-burdened.
Since 2000 average home values have increased 140% from $111K to $266K: less than the state average of $454K.
Property taxes have increased 159% since 2000 from $2,068 to $5,357; less than state average of $6,186.
4.8% of population lives below the poverty line with 13% of those being 18-34 years old.
Median Household Income = $97,561; more than the state average of $77,378.
Median Family Income = $114,531
52% of households earn <$100K
34% of homes in Ashburnham were built before 1960.
Since 2000, only two two-family units and one six-family unit has been permitted in Ashburnham. There have been 395 single family dwelling permits in that time.
Sources: American Community Survey 2014-2018 Estimates; Massachusetts 1990 Census; U.S. Decennial Census 2000, 2010