If you own a home in Western Massachusetts or you are thinking about buying one, property taxes are an important part of the equation. But many homeowners and buyers aren't exactly sure how property taxes are calculated, why assessed values change, or why two similarly priced homes in neighboring towns can have very different tax bills.

With 351 cities and towns in Massachusetts, property taxes are very local. Here in Western Massachusetts, tax rates can vary considerably from one community to another.

So, how does it all work?

For more than a century and a half, families have gathered in the hills of Hampshire County for one of New England's most beloved agricultural fairs. From August 27–30, 2026, the 158th Cummington Fair returns with four days of livestock shows, thrilling competitions, live music, family entertainment, delicious fair food, and timeless [...]

Education doesn't have to be confined to the classroom. At Hawlemont Regional Elementary School, students learn by planting gardens, caring for farm animals, exploring nature, and discovering where food comes from through the school's unique Hawlemont, Agriculture, and You (HAY) [...]

If you're looking for an authentic New England agricultural fair this summer, mark your calendar for the 108th Annual Heath Fair, taking place August 21–23, 2026, in the scenic hilltown of Heath, Massachusetts.

For more than a century, the Heath Fair has celebrated the agricultural heritage, craftsmanship, and community spirit of Franklin County. Hosted by the [...]

On Saturday, August 22, 2026, cyclists from across the country will gather in Franklin County for one of New England's most iconic cycling events—the Deerfield Dirt-Road Randonnée [...]

Every August, runners from across New England gather in the picturesque village of Shelburne Falls for one of the region's favorite summer running traditions—the Bridge of Flowers Road Race. Set against the backdrop of the Deerfield River, historic downtown, and rolling hills of Franklin County, this annual event combines a challenging [...]

Living in Franklin County and the Pioneer Valley

A Haven for Artists and Creative Professionals

Franklin County and the Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts have long attracted people seeking a quieter and more creative way of life. Surrounded by rolling hills, forests, rivers, and farmland, the region offers an ideal setting for [...]

Every community has a story to tell, and in the Hilltowns of Western Massachusetts, those stories have been carefully preserved by dedicated volunteers who are passionate about protecting local history. As part of our [...]

On Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., the Historic Buckland Common will once again come alive as the community gathers for the annual Summer Day on the Buckland Common. This beloved event celebrates the people, traditions, and history that make Buckland such a special place while offering a full day of entertainment, [...]

On Sunday, July 12, 2026, the picturesque village of Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts will once again come alive with the sound of live music as it hosts the 5th Annual Shelburne Falls Porch Music Festival. This unique, community-driven event transforms front porches, patios, storefronts, and lawns into intimate performance spaces, creating [...]