Chicopee

About Chicopee

Just minutes from Springfield and Holyoke, Chicopee is located on the eastern shore of the Connecticut River. It's nicknamed the "Crossroads of New England," thanks to its convenient central location and well-developed transportation infrastructure. Chicopee is home to many historical and cultural attractions as well as a number of special events that draw visitors from surrounding communities.

Living in Chicopee

Once under the jurisdiction of Springfield, Chicopee's Fairview, Aldenville and Willimansett neighborhoods still maintain their historical charm and Polish and French Canadian roots today. Neighborhoods like Smith Highlands, Chicomansett and Sandy Hill might be newer developments in Chicopee, but their distinctive feel is attractive to both new and existing residents.

In addition to a strong residential core, Chicopee also boasts a powerful commercial center, educational institutions and several attractions. Chicopee Memorial State Park offers nearly 600 acres of running and biking trails, swimming, fishing, picnicking grounds and plenty of recreation space. Historic buildings and monuments like the Edward Bellamy House, City Hall and the Basilica of Saint Stanislaus provide a peek into the city's past and examples of various architectural eras. Chicopee's community events, like the World Kielbasa Festival, are also a major draw.

The Chicopee Economy

Over the years, Chicopee has maintained a strong industrial core. Its key products have included cotton, brass, textiles, iron, brass, bicycles, swords and leather products. Today, the economy has largely shifted to service-based businesses, but the city is still home to a few major manufacturers. Callaway Golf makes over 5 million golf balls per year at its Chicopee location, and Chemex produces its famous pour-over coffee makers.

Many other diverse companies and organizations can be found in the city, based in the sectors of government, trade, manufacturing and retail. Providing thousands of jobs between them, Chicopee City Hall, Ethos Energy and J. Polep Distribution Services are the town's largest employers. Avery Dennison Corp., Callaway Golf, Walmart and the Valley Opportunity Council are just a few of the city's other major employers.

Chicopee Schools

In Chicopee, the schools fall under the jurisdiction of Chicopee Public Schools. Among the district's campuses are an early childhood center and a career and technical education facility. There are also a few Catholic parochial schools in Chicopee.

If you're hoping to pursue higher education in Chicopee, you can consider one of more than 30 degree programs at the city's College of Our Lady of the Elms.

Resources for Moving to Chicopee

Use the following information to prepare for your move to Chicopee:

• Utilities: Chicopee Electric Light provides electricity to the community, while the city's water commission oversees water and sewer services.
• Garbage and Recycling: Curbside recyclables and trash collection is provided on a regular basis. The city manages the waste disposal program, providing both trash and recycling disposal cans for single-family homes.
• Transportation: The Pioneer Valley Transit Authority facilitates a number of public transit routes in and around Chicopee.

Chicopee Housing

If you're searching for affordable housing in Chicopee, you'll find numerous options throughout the city. The town's most expensive housing is typically located near the Connecticut River and near park-like areas, including St. Stanislaus Cemetery, St. Rose Cemetery and Fairview Cemetery. Whatever your budget looks like, you'll find that your dollar stretches a bit further in Chicopee. Its median home price is lower than the national average, which makes it an affordable alternative to other East Coast cities.