Are you ready to embark on an exhilarating journey to discover the best places to live in Massachusetts? Look no further as we unveil a curated selection of the most desirable cities that the Bay State has to offer.
Massachusetts, renowned for its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant culture, is home to many cities that provide an exceptional quality of life. Whether you seek a bustling urban environment, a charming coastal retreat, or a peaceful suburban haven, the diverse Massachusetts real estate market has something to offer everyone.
From the thriving metropolis of Boston to the idyllic neighborhood of Newton, we will delve into the key factors that make these cities stand out, including their public schools, access to amenities, and details about the area’s real estate market.
12 Best Places To Live in Massachusetts
Below we outline the most coveted places to live in Massachusetts. Whether you are a nature enthusiast seeking scenic beauty, a young professional looking for exciting career opportunities, or a family searching for top-notch schools, we provide many options in our list of the best cities in Massachusetts.
Newton
Population: 87,500
Median Income: $154,400
Median Home Price: $1.3M
Newton, Massachusetts, is just outside of Boston and is a lively city that offers a blend of suburban tranquility and urban conveniences. Renowned for its excellent school system, Newton attracts families seeking top-notch education opportunities for their children and is near to Brandeis University, Boston College, and Bentley College.
In addition, the city boasts a multitude of amenities, including parks, playgrounds, and recreational facilities. These elements make Newton an ideal place for families to thrive. However, retirees also find the city appealing with the many healthcare facilities and community organizations.
The city of Newton is home to a thriving job market, thanks partly to its proximity to Boston. Various industries are represented, including healthcare, education, technology, and finance. Another critical factor is the low crime rates and wide range of real estate options, including condos, homes, and multi-family homes. Staying up-to-date on open houses in Newton is also a great way to find good deals.
Amherst
Population: 39,300
Median Household Income: $61,100
Median Home Price: $458K
Amherst is a charming college town situated in the picturesque Pioneer Valley with a vibrant and diverse community. Families are drawn to Amherst’s outstanding schools, including the highly regarded Amherst-Pelham Regional School District.
As for higher education, the city is home to Amherst College, Hampshire College, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Amherst also boasts an array of amenities like parks, libraries, and recreational facilities for residents to enjoy.
You will find that Amherst enjoys a low crime rate, safe neighborhoods, and offers a wide array of real estate options. Being a college town, many rentals are utilized for students. However, you will find an assortment of historic homes, townhouses, single-family residences, and condos throughout the city.
Northampton
Population: 29,300
Median Household Income: $71,900
Median Home Price: $416.9K
Many people enjoy the beautiful city of Northampton due to its rich culture and welcoming community. In addition, the Northampton Public School District is one of the best in the state. People of all ages will find a source of entertainment in the city, with a variety of parks, playgrounds, recreational facilities, and active community organizations.
Another perk to Northampton is its arts scene. You will find many galleries, theaters, and music venues in the city. You will also have proximity to Smith College and the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
One of the top attributes of Northampton, outside of it being one of the safest cities, is its beautiful downtown area with an assortment of businesses, coffee shops, and restaurants. Employment opportunities are plentiful for everyone, from college students to retirees looking to supplement their income.
Concord
Population: 18,000
Median Household Income: $169,300
Median Home Price: $1.2M
If you are looking for a town steeped in natural beauty, you will love Concord real estate. Residents appreciate the city’s many amenities, including award-winning schools. Concord caters to families, retirees, and professionals with its many resources and proximity to Boston.
One thing you will find in Concord is its dedication to preserving the city’s history. There are many historic sites throughout the area that they take great care to preserve. Because of that aspect, the city enjoys an influx of tourists yearly but is also home to many families who enjoy it year-round.
Another benefit to Concord is the low crime rate, which allows residents to feel safe as they navigate the city and live their lives. When it comes to housing, the market can be quite competitive. However, you will find a unique variety of historic homes, new builds, condominiums, and apartments available.
Salem
Population: 44,800
Median Income: $66,400
Median Home Price: $538.8K
Most everyone has heard of the town of Salem, Massachusetts, due to its historic affiliation with the Salem Witch Trials in 1692. Today, many people visit the city during Halloween to take in the historical sites and celebrate the holiday.
However, Salem is more than just a tourist attraction. The city is home to many full-time residents that enjoy the various amenities the city has to offer. Families will enjoy access to various educational opportunities, including public, private, and charter. Additionally, the growing job market and low unemployment rate is an incentive.
While the crime rate in Salem was once relatively high, it has seen a steady decline over the years, and the city has renewed its commitment to keeping the area safe for all. The Salem real estate market includes mostly single-family homes of lovely design and condos for sale, some of them directly waterfront.
Somerville
Population: 79,800
Median Household Income: $102,300
Median Home Price: $825.7K
One of the greatest assets to living in Somerville, Massachusetts, within Middlesex County, is its proximity to Boston, making the area the perfect blend of city and suburban life. Within the area, you can access many farmer’s markets, parks, community centers, and art festivals, making great activities for all ages.
With its location being just outside of Boston, many professionals opt to work there but reside in Somerville. This arrangement allows for a quieter home life than what Boston can offer, but the lucrative job opportunities that aren’t as prevalent in Somerville.
In addition to that, you will see a unique blend of housing options. Somerville offers single-family homes, apartments, and condominiums. The housing market is quite competitive because of people commuting to Boston for work.
Lexington
Population: 34,000
Median Household Income: $202,900
Median Home Price: $1.3M
As one of the more affluent areas of Massachusetts, Lexington comes with a higher cost of living. However, the city also provides some of the best schools in the state through high academic scores and numerous extracurricular activities.
Lexington isn’t limited to just families. People from all walks of life enjoy the area for its many local amenities. It’s a quiet area with beautiful scenery, especially during fall. There is a low crime rate, and the city is close to Boston and Burlington Mall.
In the Lexington real estate market you will find many upscale homes, with the median home price coming in at over one million dollars. However, homes retain high property values due to the competitive market, making them a sound investment.
Provincetown
Population: 3,600
Median Household Income: $69,000
Median Home Price: $887.9K
If beach life is what you are looking for, then head toward Provincetown. Located at the tip of Cape Cod, you will have access to stunning views with a lively art scene. One thing to consider if you are considering relocating to the beach town is that Provincetown doesn’t have its own school district. Families in the area can explore nearby towns in Cape Cod for educational needs, however.
Retirees love the area for its laid back atmosphere and inclusive lifestyle. Many tourists come in the summer, creating an influx of seasonal jobs. Because of the drastic increase in population over the summer, crime rises during those times. At other times of the year, it is low.
Although the market is highly competitive, you will find various housing options in the city. This fact is especially true in the summer season when tourists visit.
Springfield
Population: 154,780
Median Household Income: $41,570
Median Home Price: $253.9K
There are many exciting aspects to life in Springfield. As the third-largest city in the state, there are many unique areas in terms of recreational opportunities and culture. You can find the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden and Forest Park in Springfield.
Within the city, you can find public and private schools as well as higher education. It is also home to Baystate Medical Center, a major healthcare provider in the region. You will find coffee shops, dining spots, and various food options for shopping.
Springfield has been working to reduce crime rates in the city, seeing a decline in trends with their efforts. What many love about the city is the affordable housing. Single-family homes, condominiums, apartments, and historic homes are available for sale or rent.
Worcester
Population: 205,900
Median Household Income: $51,650
Median Home Price: $375K
Worcester is the second largest city in Massachusetts and comes with a lower cost of living than many areas in the state. The city has many unique attractions, including the Worcester Art Museum, Mechanics Hall, and the Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts.
In the city, you will see many public and private schools, as well as three higher education institutions. There is comprehensive healthcare in the way of UMass Memorial and St. Vincent Hospital.
Crime in Worcester has been on a downward trend throughout the years, offering a safe and secure place to live. You will find an assortment of reasonable cost housing options in the city, including single-family homes, apartments, and condominiums.
Boston
Population: 654,780
Median Household Income: $76,300
Median Home Price: $690K
Boston, Massachusetts capital city and the largest city in the state. The area has many historic landmarks, including the Freedom Trail, Faneuil Hall, and the Boston Common and great suburbs you should check out. The city is also home to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Harvard University.
You will find many educational options for children, including public and private schools. There are also many quality medical options, including Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and Boston Children’s Hospital.
Finding real estate in Boston can be challenging due to its high need. In the city, you have the luxury of decreasing crime rates, made possible by policing efforts and Neighborhood Watch programs.
Cambridge
Population: 117,100
Median Household Income: $107,490
Median Home Price: $910K
As a city right next to Boston, Cambridge offers easy access to those going into the city for work or school. The area, in Middlesex County, also boasts top-notch academics for children and higher education.
There are ample job opportunities in Cambridge with a high employment rate, with many positions available in the technology sector. There are also ample healthcare opportunities, with the primary hospital being Mount Auburn.
While the real estate in Cambridge costs above average in the state, there are many options available to residents of diverse budgets and lifestyles. You will find apartments, condos, and single-family homes within the city limits. You will also have a blend of new builds and historic houses in Kendall Square.
FAQs: Best Places to Live in Massachusetts
What is the best city to live in Massachusetts 2023?
Knowing the best city to live in is subject to your preferences. For some, Lexington is the best area due to its affluent status and top-rated schools. Others prefer areas like Cambridge and Newton due to their proximity to Boston. If you are into city life, Boston is likely your preference.
Is it worth it to live in Massachusetts?
It is worth it to live in Massachusetts as the state has a lot to offer its residents. Not only is the state one of the most historical regions of the United States, but having all four seasons and many recreational nature areas to explore is also a bonus.
What are the pros and cons of living in Massachusetts?
Living in Massachusetts can be expensive, depending on where you choose to live in the state. The state has a cost of living index of 127.5, above the national average of 100. Additionally, you will likely experience harsh winters throughout your time there. Some areas have more crime than others, but generally, the levels are low.
What is the prettiest city in Massachusetts?
Like determining the best city, knowing what the prettiest city is can be subject to preference. For some, being near parks and a beautiful landscape is their definition of pretty. For others, seeing an expansive skyline among tall buildings fits the bill.
What is a comfortable salary to live in Massachusetts?
When considering a comfortable salary for residency in Massachusetts, you must analyze the cost of living in each city you are pursuing. In some areas, the median household income is over $200,000. Alternatively, you can find areas in Massachusetts that require under $100,000.
Where in Massachusetts is best for climate change?
When it comes to climate change, most cities in Massachusetts are doing their part to slow the effects. You will find it more challenging on the state’s coast due to the conditions. However, if you move more inland, you will experience less drastic changes in the climate.
Is it more expensive to live in New York or Massachusetts?
The average cost of living in New York and Massachusetts factors in cities from all over the state. Because of the high price associated with New York City, the state of New York as a whole is more expensive. While Massachusetts has many iconic cities that are expensive to live in, the average cost is less than in New York.
Why is Massachusetts the healthiest state?
Many reasons contribute to Massachusetts being the healthiest state. Residents’ access to high-quality healthcare is at the top of the list. Other factors include the economy, top-rated education, and plentiful options for exercise.
What city in Massachusetts has the best weather?
Although Massachusetts is a small state, the various cities can experience different weather throughout the year. Unless you want to establish yourself on the coast, many residents feel that the best inland areas in terms of weather are Worcester and Springfield.
The Best Cities in Massachusetts Final Thoughts
After exploring the vast metropolises and tranquil towns that make up the Bay State, it’s clear that Massachusetts has something for everyone. Each city boasts its own unique character and charm that sets it apart from the rest, making it difficult to choose the “best” one.
Once you explore the vibrant communities of Newton, Amherst, Northampton, Concord, and others, sign up for alerts on eXp so you can stay up-to-date on new listings and upcoming open houses in the area.
Furthermore, contact a local eXp real estate agent to find your dream home in the best places to live in Massachusetts today!