Looking for a quiet New England river town with breathtaking mountain views, big city conveniences, and a uniquely local culture grown from hometown community values? Well, then Holyoke is the place for you. Stick around for a while and we'll help you get to know this charming little city inside and out.
Although Holyoke's population is just under 40,000 people, the size of this city grows by more than 300,000 people each year during the annual St
Holyoke, MA
Looking for a quiet New England river town with breathtaking mountain views, big city conveniences, and a uniquely local culture grown from hometown community values? Well, then Holyoke is the place for you. Stick around for a while and we'll help you get to know this charming little city inside and out.
Although Holyoke's population is just under 40,000 people, the size of this city grows by more than 300,000 people each year during the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade. With the greater part of the local population descended from Irish immigrants, it only makes sense for this otherwise unknown city to become a Celtic extravaganza once a year, with live music and beer-swilling fun rivaled only by the St. Patrick's Day Parade of New York City. And now, with the largest percentage of Puerto Ricans in any U.S. city, the list of Puerto Rican and other Latin events is gaining momentum. Latin music nights, Puerto Rican shops and eateries, as well as the annual Puerto Rican Day Parade are attracting people from all over the northeast. Needless to say, this city’s got it going on.
Rentals in Holyoke are pleasantly spacious, convenient, and affordable. As one of the few cities in the northeast where you can find nice, big apartments for less than a grand, it’s truly a great bargain. With lots of old 19th century urban architecture, a few country-style rentals, and some beautifully renovated Victorian and Craftsman houses, you’re sure to find plenty of apartments full of historic beauty and character. Rental rates range from $900 to $1,500 and more. At the lower end of the price spectrum, you will find some very nice apartment complexes with long lists of amenities – such as fitness centers, swimming pools, 24-hour maintenance and security, pest control, and even a daily newspaper delivery – while the higher priced rentals are typically larger single-family homes. For $950 to $1,100, you can get a two bedroom at the popular Castle Hills complex, which features beautiful townhomes right next to Mountain Park, a much-loved concert venue at the foot of Mount Tom.
You’ll be happy to know that “Utilities Included,” “Washer and Dryer in Unit,” “Pest Control,” “Security,” and “Free Newspaper Delivery” are very common phrases among local apartment complexes. But, unfortunately for dog-lovers, “Cats-Allowed” is a much more popular phrase than “Dogs-Allowed.”
There’s a strong feeling of community spirit among locals that provides a balance to the overall safety of life here. Pillars of community spirit in this city include the library, also known as "The People's College", as well as the old merry-go-round, which still exists today because the entire city came together in a mass effort of community preservation. In fact, this historic merry-go-round is a symbol of how things work around here. Children, local donors, and community advocates came together repeatedly in this city's history to restore, renovate, and relocate this beacon of Holyoke culture.
Ready to join the good folks of Holyoke? Good, because they are ready to welcome you. Enjoy.
-By Katy Comal