Nantucket is a fantastic place to live, especially if you want to stay away from the bustles of cities. The oceanic backdrop and pleasant weather are some of the things that may prompt a move to this island.
Moving to a new place is a crucial decision. You should weigh your options before the move to avoid regrets. It is logical to weigh the pros and cons of the chosen place for a clear picture of the living situation.
We will look at the positives and negatives of living in Nantucket to hint at what to expect if you buy a house and move there.
The Positives
The following are the endearing things about Nantucket.
Calm Atmosphere
A thing to love about Nantucket is the calm atmosphere. When you land on the island, you will immediately notice a difference. The weather is okay, with the ocean giving a relaxed aura. The people are friendly and welcoming.
You also realize that the noise levels are low, unlike in many places on the mainland.
Plenty of Attractions
Nantucket is the place to be if you are a curious soul. Plenty of attractions on this tiny island will quench your spirit of adventure. The beaches are primary attractions that make amazing chill spots.
You may visit the many museums around if you are a history buff. Moreover, the island has three majestic lighthouses, excellent for photography or as a muse for artists. Also, you can participate in the numerous festivities to get a taste of Nantucket’s culture and meet new people.
You can learn many things on this island, such as surfing, fishing, sailing and more.
Safety
We all want to live in a safe neighborhood. Nantucket has a low crime rate; thus, it is an excellent place to stay or raise your family.
Still, on safety, Nantucket is not prone to natural disasters that affect some islands. There is a low chance of hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, and wildfires.
A Manageable Population
Nantucket has a low population of around 10000. The island can handle this population without stretching basic amenities. It means you can live peacefully without worrying about water, power, health, and internet facilities. Furthermore, the low population makes it easy to control crime.
Neighborhood Diversity
Where do I stay in Nantucket? Nantucket has several neighborhoods to consider depending on your tastes. Brant Point, Cliff, and Edge of Town are ideal for families due to their quiet demeanor. Naushop is another family-friendly neighborhood with a nostalgic feeling, courtesy of its classy design.
Cisco is Nantucket’s surfer culture hub. Mid-Island is very convenient due to its location. Shops, restaurants, and beaches are proximal to this part of Nantucket.
The town center, Miacomet, and Middle Moors are other places to stay.
A Vibrant Real Estate Sector
You might want to move to Nantucket for investment purposes. The real estate scene is very vibrant and an excellent investment front. The property market is performing well currently; thus, you may buy into it to keep your capital busy.
The Negatives
Flipping the coin, the following are some downsides of moving to Nantucket.
High Property Prices
Expect high property costs when you move to Nantucket. You need to be very loaded to buy a house in Nantucket. The median cost of a house is around $ 2 million, roughly nine times the average price in the US. You may consider renting a place. However, this is only cheaper in the short term.
High Cost of Living
The cost of living is pretty high in Nantucket, almost thrice the national average, when you factor in housing. Groceries and services are quite expensive; you will spend more on various utilities than before.
Transportation
Moving around the island is effortless due to its excellent road network. The problem comes when moving to the mainland. Access to the mainland is via water and air transport, with the former being popular due to its affordability. The problem with water transport is that it is slow, especially if you opt for the ferries. Air transport is fast but expensive.
Building and Renovation Regulations
You will encounter several hurdles when building in Nantucket. You must follow the building regulations set by the Historic District Commission. This body gives building permits and dictates the construction style and paint job, to maintain Nantucket’s signature architecture. Keeping up with the regulations can be costly and time-intensive.
Verdict on living in Nantucket
Nantucket is an excellent place to live, especially if you value your peace. The island boasts several attractions, meaning you will have no dull day. Nevertheless, you should factor in the high cost of living. Housing, groceries, and basic amenities are pricier than the national average.
If you can look past the few negatives, you can have a fulfilling time in Nantucket.