Athol was originally called Pequoiag, but the name was changed by proprietor, John Murray, to Athol because it reminded him of his hometown, Blair Atholl in Scotland.

Athol is a fairly large town, about 33.4 square miles. According to the last census, there are a little over 11,000 citizens residing in the town. The vast majority of the town's population resides in and around the downtown area. The rest of the area consists of wide open spaces for residents and visitors to explore. The area is surrounded by multiple state forests and conservation areas.

Moving to Athol

Before moving to Athol, it would be wise to use an apartments locator to ensure that a place for rent is available. It's much easier to search for apartments or rental homes prior to moving to the town, instead of having to scramble to find an apartment or rental home once you arrive in the city.

Athol has a variety of places to live in. Finding an apt for rent in Athol shouldn't be difficult. Before moving to the city, it's best to keep identification and a social security card on hand. Potential landlords will want to have access to this information in order to perform a credit check. Late summer and early fall are ideal times to move to the area. It's much cooler during these months, and this can make moving large items and heavy furniture a little bit easier.

Neighborhoods in Athol

Athol is a lovely community surrounded by beautiful wooded areas and parks. It's a great place for people who enjoy living and playing in a community where the great outdoors is literally all around. There are three primary neighborhoods in this beautiful town.

Town Center: Although this area is located on the north side of Athol, the area is considered to be the hub of the community. Residential areas abound in this area, and these residential areas intermingle with places of business. The courthouse and other major community resources are situated in this area. Residents can enjoy a day of shopping at the Carriagetown Marketplace, located on Main, and then have lunch at the Main Street Diner.

The Street: This area is sandwiched between Town Center and Eaglesville. Residential areas are located in close proximity with businesses and restaurants. It's not that far to drive to SpeeDee Oil Change to get the oil changed in the car, and then finish up the day's errands with groceries at the Orange Hannaford Supermarket.

Eaglesville: Eaglesville is also known as South Athol. There are lots of residential areas and apartment complexes in this part of the area. Businesses and restaurants are located in this area, but not as many as there are in Town Center and The Street. Residents in Eaglesville can stop by and enjoy a cup of coffee at the Highland Coffee House before heading to Eagle Peak Fitness for a good workout.

Living in Athol

Athol residents can often walk to area businesses in the uptown and downtown districts. Several different bus lines provide service to the area, and an active freight rail runs right through the town. Nearby Orange Municipal Airport provides air transit to and from this lively township.

Since the area is geographically isolated from many of the major centers of culture in the state, area residents take it upon themselves to create their own forms of entertainment. The town is renowned for producing skilled musicians in variety of genres. Many of the productions and programs are funded by the Athol Cultural Council and produced by local entities such as the Athol Public Library, the Athol Historical Society, and the Athol-Orange Rotary.

Athol and the surrounding area has become a hot bed for eco-tourism. The Millers River Environmental Center is located on Main Street in a former elementary school building. Exhibits and events are regularly held in this venue that also doubles as the home of the Athol Bird and Nature Club. Additionally, the Alan E. Rich Environmental Park, situated near the Mills River Bridge offers a safe and inviting habitat for native plants. Parking is available at this venue, as well as boat access to Millers River. Adjacent to this location, sits Cass Meadow, where residents and visitors can enjoy hiking through 14 acres of nature trails.

Many of the town's activities center around the Millers River. An annual canoe race, aptly dubbed the River Rat Race is held each spring. The event draws a huge crowd, some of which travel a good distance to attend. The race is six miles long and begins at Cass Meadows and ends at Hatchey's Landing in Orange, Massachusetts. A parade and carnival are also held during this event.

For those that enjoy a life in an area focused on green living and small town values, Athol is definitely a winner. Since the town of Athol is near to many major forests and rivers, there is abundance of outdoor activities that visitors can choose to engage in. Best of all, the town combines all the best features of modern life in urban areas in a rural setting.

Apartments for Rent in Athol, MA

Apartments for Rent in Athol, MA

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Average rent in Athol, Massachusetts

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Average rent in Athol, Massachusetts

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71 Tremont St (opens in new tab)

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much is rent in Athol, MA?

How much is rent in Athol, MA?

How can I find a pet-friendly apartment in Athol, MA?

How can I find a pet-friendly apartment in Athol, MA?

How much should I pay for rent in Athol, MA?

How much should I pay for rent in Athol, MA?

How can I find off-campus housing in Athol, MA?

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