ISLAND LIFESTYLE
Nantucket offers two distinctly different experiences depending on when you choose to be here. Year-round residents enjoy a close-knit community and peaceful off-seasons, while seasonal residents and visitors experience the island at its most vibrant during summer months.
Understanding these differences is essential when considering a home purchase on Nantucket. The island transforms dramatically throughout the year, with the population swinging from approximately 14,445 in winter to over 80,000 during peak summer weekends.
POPULATION DYNAMICS
The island population changes dramatically throughout the year, affecting everything from traffic to restaurant wait times.
SERVICES & AMENITIES
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
| Category | Year-Round | Seasonal | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Median) | $2.5M+ (purchase) | $3,500 - $15,000+/week (rental) | Year-round housing has limited inventory; seasonal rentals vary widely by location and property |
| Groceries | 8% above national average | Same, but bulk buying possible | Everything must be shipped to the island; prices reflect transportation costs |
| Transportation | 107% above national average | Rental cars premium priced | Gas averages ~$5.87/gallon; many residents go car-free |
| Income Needed | $118,000+ for comfort | Varies by length of stay | Median household income on Nantucket is $109,988 |
Housing costs on Nantucket are 324% above the national average. The median home price exceeds $2.5 million, and rental prices reflect the island's desirability. Whether year-round or seasonal, expect housing to be your largest expense.
WEIGHING YOUR OPTIONS
COMMUNITY LIFE
The year-round community on Nantucket is tight-knit and supportive. With approximately 14,445 permanent residents, you will quickly get to know your neighbors, local business owners, and community leaders. Winter brings potluck dinners, book clubs, and a slower pace that many residents cherish.
Summer brings a different energy to Nantucket, with returning seasonal residents, vacationers, and day-trippers swelling the population. Many seasonal residents have deep, multi-generational connections to the island and return year after year to the same properties and social circles.
A YEAR ON NANTUCKET
Quiet months with cozy community gatherings. Christmas Stroll in early December brings temporary bustle. Many residents travel during January and February.
Daffodil Festival in April marks the start of the season. Restaurants begin reopening. Mild weather perfect for biking and exploring.
Peak season with beaches, events, and full amenities. Fourth of July, Figawi Race, and endless social activities. Book everything well in advance.
Shoulder season with perfect weather and smaller crowds. Cranberry Festival in October. Many consider this the best time to visit.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Nantucket has approximately 14,445 year-round residents as of the 2024 census. This number has grown from around 11,000 in 2018, reflecting increasing interest in permanent island living.
Nantucket's population swells dramatically in summer, from around 14,445 year-round residents to 60,000-80,000+ during peak season. On busy holiday weekends like the Fourth of July, the population can exceed 80,000 people.
Yes, significantly. The cost of living on Nantucket is 132% higher than the national average. Housing costs are 324% above average, and transportation costs are 107% higher. To live comfortably as a single adult, you should aim for an income around $118,000 before taxes.
Nantucket has year-round healthcare (Nantucket Cottage Hospital with 24/7 emergency), K-12 public schools, grocery stores (Stop & Shop), pharmacies, banking, and essential retail. However, many restaurants, boutiques, and entertainment options operate seasonally and close for winter.
It depends on your priorities. Year-round living offers deep community connection, peaceful off-seasons, and a slower pace of life, but requires adapting to limited winter amenities. Seasonal living lets you experience Nantucket at its most vibrant but means missing the intimate off-season community and dealing with summer crowds.
Yes, remote work has made year-round living more feasible for many people. The island has reliable internet connectivity, and you can enjoy the peaceful off-season while maintaining your career. However, you should be prepared for occasional isolation during winter storms when ferries may be canceled.
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