Zip Code 02542
MA · Population: 766
About Zip Code 02542
Zip code 02542 is located in Massachusetts and is home to approximately 766 residents. It receives an overall grade of C (score: 45/100), based on safety, affordability, quality of life, and employment metrics.
Crime rates here are below the national average, suggesting a relatively safe community.
Housing costs are a challenge in this area, with home values at N/A and median rent of $1,897/month against a median income of $49,250. Many residents face a significant housing cost burden.
About 36% of adults have a college degree, roughly in line with national averages.
The unemployment rate of 9.9% is above the national average, indicating a weaker local job market.
Scores are percentile-based: a score of 85 means this zip code ranks better than 85% of all US zip codes on that dimension. Data is sourced from the US Census Bureau (ACS 5-year estimates) and the FBI Uniform Crime Report.
Demographics & Economics
Score Breakdown
| Dimension | Score | Grade | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | 68 | B | Lower crime = higher score |
| Affordability | 24 | F | Lower cost relative to income = higher |
| Quality of Life | 54 | C+ | Education, commute, ownership |
| Jobs & Economy | 33 | D | Lower unemployment = higher |
| Overall | 45 | C | Weighted average |
Methodology
All scores are percentile-based (0–100): a score of 85 means this zip code ranks better than 85% of all US zip codes on that metric. Safety uses FBI Uniform Crime Report state-level data (Phase 2 will add zip-level granularity). Economic and demographic data is from the US Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates (2022).