Hampshire County is the heart of the Pioneer Valley, a college-rich stretch along the Connecticut River. Northampton is the county seat.
The Five College area centers here, with the University of Massachusetts in Amherst plus Smith, Mount Holyoke, Amherst, and Hampshire colleges nearby. Northampton has a lively arts and music scene to match.
Emily Dickinson lived and wrote in Amherst, where her home is now a museum.
About 38% of Hampshire County homes heat with oil, above the state average. Comparing local quotes is an easy way to save.