Why Live in Rockdale
Rockdale, a residential neighborhood in New Bedford, Massachusetts, is situated just south of Interstate 195 and west of Highway 140, providing easy access to Providence, Boston, and Cape Cod. This peaceful suburban area is conveniently located between Westport and downtown New Bedford, offering residents a quiet retreat with proximity to urban amenities. The neighborhood is only 3 miles from the historic New Bedford waterfront, where residents can explore the New Bedford Whaling Museum, stroll along the docks, or take a ferry to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Allen C. Haskell Public Gardens and Buttonwood Park offer botanical gardens, walking paths, and recreational facilities, including the Buttonwood Park Zoo. Golfers can enjoy the Whaling City Golf Course and the private Country Club of New Bedford, both featuring 18-hole courses.
Homes in Rockdale reflect classic New England architecture, ranging from midcentury ranch-style houses to contemporary colonial-inspired constructions. The neighborhood features modest three- and four-bedroom homes, with prices varying from $365,000 for a one-bedroom ranch to $565,000 for a three-bedroom Cape Cod. While the neighborhood itself is primarily residential, essential shopping is available nearby at Shaw’s and Walmart Supercenter, with the Dartmouth Mall just 2 miles west offering additional retail and dining options. Local dining favorites include Riccardi’s for Italian cuisine and The Village Café for a diverse menu.
For those seeking private education, the highly-rated Tabor Academy is a nearby option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rockdale a good place to live?
Rockdale is a good place to live. Rockdale is considered very car-dependent and somewhat bikeable with minimal transit options. Rockdale is a suburban neighborhood with a crime score of 4, on par with the average neighborhood in the U.S. Rockdale has 6 parks for recreational activities. It is fairly sparse in population with 5.9 people per acre and a median age of 50. The average household income is $75,609 which is below the national average. College graduates make up 22.2% of residents. A majority of residents in Rockdale are home owners, with 47.9% of residents renting and 52.1% of residents owning their home. A
local real estate agent serving Rockdale can help you decide if this neighborhood is the right one for you. Learn more on our
Rockdale neighborhood guide.
Is Rockdale, MA a safe neighborhood?
Rockdale, MA is a safe neighborhood and is on par with the average neighborhood in the United States. It received a crime score of 4 out of 10.
How much do you need to make to afford a house in Rockdale?
The median home price in Rockdale is $344,900. If you put a 20% down payment of $69,000 and had a 30-year fixed mortgage with an interest rate of 6.74%, your estimated principal and interest payment would be $1,790 a month plus property taxes, HOA fees, home insurance, PMI, and utilities. Using the 28% rule, you would need to make at least $77K a year to afford the median home price in Rockdale. The average household income in Rockdale is $76K.
What are the best public schools in Rockdale?
The best public schools that serve Rockdale are:
What are the best private schools in Rockdale?
The best private schools that serve Rockdale are:
What are the most popular zip codes in Rockdale, New Bedford, MA?
What are the most popular neighborhoods near Rockdale, New Bedford, MA?
Are home prices dropping in Rockdale?
Yes, home prices in Rockdale are down 28% in the last 12 months.
Home Trends in Rockdale, MA
On average, homes in Rockdale, New Bedford sell after 73 days on the market compared to the national average of 70 days. The median sale price for homes in Rockdale, New Bedford over the last 12 months is $335,000, down 9% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Median Sale Price
$335,000
Median Single Family Sale Price
$310,000
Median Townhouse Sale Price
$335,000
Median 2 Bedroom Sale Price
$395,000
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$386
Number of Homes for Sale
2
Last 12 months Home Sales
12
Median List Price
$344,900
Median Change From 1st List Price
3%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
-9%