Boston, a city renowned for its historical significance and vibrant cultural scene, is also a hub for education and innovation.
However, an emerging trend has been noted by Boston movers, who report an increase in the number of people relocating from Boston to its surrounding areas.
This shift suggests that the best cities near Boston are becoming highly sought after, as residents seek the unique combination of suburban tranquility and urban accessibility.
These suburbs not only offer a respite from the city’s hustle and bustle but also maintain proximity to its rich resources and opportunities, making them an ideal choice for those looking to enjoy the best of both worlds.
As we explore these communities, we’ll discover why they are considered top choices for settling down near this historic metropolis.
Brookline, MA
Brookline, Massachusetts, presents itself as a vibrant and culturally rich community with a strong emphasis on educational excellence and environmental sustainability.
As of 2024, Brookline’s population stands at around 62,620, with a median household income of approximately $122,356, which reflects its affluent status within the Greater Boston area.
The town is known for its high property values, with the average home price around $1,026,200.
Despite its prosperity, Brookline maintains a commitment to inclusivity and sustainability, evidenced by initiatives like the no-cost food waste drop-off program aimed at enhancing composting efforts and reducing waste.
Brookline, Massachusetts, is renowned for its affluent yet community-focused environment, reflected in both its socio-economic statistics and civic initiatives.
As of recent data, Brookline boasts a population of approximately 62,620 with a median household income of $122,356, highlighting its prosperous nature within the Boston area.
The average home price in Brookline stands at around $1,026,200.
This economic backdrop supports a range of public services and innovative programs, such as the recently implemented food waste drop-off program which aims to enhance sustainability by converting organic waste into nutrient-rich compost.
This initiative demonstrates Brookline’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community health.
On the educational front, Brookline continues to invest heavily in its public schooling system, evidenced by the Brookline Education Foundation’s ongoing support, which has contributed over $5 million since 1981 to enhance educational programs across all levels.
These funds foster significant advancements in technology, literacy, science, and math, as well as enrichment activities that promote physical and social development.
Brookline’s focus on education is paired with efforts to ensure housing affordability and diversity through programs like the first-time homebuyers program offered by the Brookline Community Development Corporation, which provides financial assistance to low and moderate-income residents aiming to purchase homes, thereby promoting economic diversity and community inclusivity.
Newton, MA
Newton, Massachusetts, located just west of Boston, is a thriving suburb known for its high quality of life and affluent community. As of 2024, the population of Newton is approximately 88,647 residents.
The town offers a median household income significantly above the national average at $164,607, compared to the U.S. median of $69,021. The average home price in Newton is notably high at $1,250,900, reflecting the town’s desirability and affluent demographic.
This economic backdrop is complemented by a relatively low unemployment rate of 4.1%, compared to the national average of 6.0%.
Residents of Newton also benefit from a diverse range of housing, excellent educational institutions, and comprehensive local services that cater to various needs, from youth and family services to programs for the elderly.
Newton is also distinguished by its commitment to community development and sustainability. The city has undertaken several initiatives to revitalize its village centers and promote local business through strategic zoning and planning.
This includes the development of the Village Center Overlay District, which aims to enhance the vibrancy of these areas while maintaining the suburban charm that Newton is known for.
Moreover, Newton’s public schools are a cornerstone of the community, with a strong emphasis on providing a supportive and enriching educational environment.
The Mason-Rice Elementary School, for example, is one of many that serve as a hub for community engagement and learning, boasting a long history and dedication to excellence in education.
Lexington, MA
Lexington, Massachusetts, exemplifies a quintessential blend of historical richness and modern suburban living, situated about 11 miles northwest of Boston.
The town is notable for its significant role in American history, particularly the early battles of the American Revolution, and maintains a population of approximately 34,454 residents.
This is complemented by a high median household income of about $186,201, reflecting its affluent community.
The town encompasses a mix of residential areas and conservation land, ensuring a balance between development and natural preservation.
Public amenities in Lexington are robust, featuring excellent schools, comprehensive public transportation access to Boston, and community-focused facilities like the Cary Library and the Lexington Community Center.
The housing market in Lexington remains vibrant and upscale, with a median listing home price around $2.6 million as of late 2023.
This positions Lexington as one of the more expensive real estate markets in the area, indicative of its high-quality public services and schools, which are consistently ranked among the best in Massachusetts.
Additionally, Lexington is celebrated for its low crime rates, providing a safe environment for its residents.
The town’s commitment to maintaining a high standard of living is evident in its meticulous urban planning and community involvement, which contribute to its appeal as one of the most desirable suburbs of Boston.
Cambridge, MA
Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a bustling urban center known for its vibrant mix of educational institutions, cultural diversity, and innovative spirit.
Home to world-renowned universities like Harvard and MIT, Cambridge’s population is a dynamic blend of students, professionals, and families, contributing to its youthful median age of approximately 30.5 years.
The city’s demographic and economic profile is bolstered by a strong educational sector that drives its economy, with a median household income of around $112,565, which is significantly higher than the national average.
The real estate market in Cambridge is as dynamic as its population, characterized by a median home price of about $1.4 million as of late 2023, reflecting the city’s high desirability and limited supply.
This market trend represents a robust year-over-year growth, underscoring Cambridge’s status as a prime residential and commercial investment location.
The city’s urban development is further highlighted by projects like the Kendall Square Redevelopment, which aims to enhance its reputation as a hub of innovation and technology.
This ongoing development includes significant public and private investment into modernizing infrastructure and expanding commercial and residential spaces.
Concord, MA
Concord, Massachusetts, is a historically rich town renowned for its significant role in American history, particularly the early battles of the American Revolution.
Today, Concord offers a blend of historic sites like the Minute Man National Historical Park and modern amenities, making it a charming town for both residents and visitors.
The town enjoys a strong sense of community, highlighted by events such as Longfellow Days which bring people together with cultural activities and festivities every February.
Concord’s commitment to maintaining its historical legacy while providing a high-quality living environment is evident in its carefully planned development and preservation efforts.
The town also demonstrates a proactive approach to environmental sustainability, particularly in its management of water resources and natural landscapes.
Concord’s Natural Resources Commission is active in preserving the local flora and fauna, ensuring that development respects the town’s ecological integrity.
Additionally, the town is engaged in long-term planning to enhance its wastewater management systems, aiming to protect public health and the environment for future generations.
This kind of forward-thinking governance helps maintain Concord’s reputation as a desirable place to live, with a blend of historical richness and modern conveniences.
Belmont, MA
Belmont, Massachusetts, is a city that combines a rich historical backdrop with the vibrancy of modern suburban living.
As of early 2024, the housing market in Belmont reflects its desirability with a median listing home price of $1.2 million, showing a decrease from the previous year, yet maintaining high values due to its attractive amenities and strong school system.
The market conditions indicate that Belmont is predominantly a seller’s market, with homes generally selling close to their asking price and the inventory moving relatively quickly, often within about 52 days on the market.
The community of Belmont is particularly noted for its high educational attainment and cultural sophistication.
A significant percentage of residents hold advanced degrees, and the local lifestyle is characterized by a high engagement with the arts, literature, and community events.
This intellectual and cultural richness is complemented by excellent public schools, making Belmont not only a prime location for families but also for those seeking a community that values education and active participation in cultural and civic activities.
Waltham, MA
Waltham, Massachusetts, is a dynamic city known for its rich historical significance and robust local economy.
With a population of approximately 64,655, Waltham is celebrated for its blend of urban and suburban elements, providing residents and visitors with a variety of cultural and recreational opportunities.
The city’s housing market is active, with the median listing home price around $799.9K as of December 2023, showing a slight decrease from the previous year. The area is considered a seller’s market, with properties typically staying on the market for about 47 days.
The city boasts several green spaces like Prospect Hill Park, Beaver Brook Reservation, and the Charles River Reservation, making it attractive for those who enjoy outdoor activities.
Additionally, Waltham is home to esteemed educational institutions such as Brandeis University and Bentley University, which not only contribute to the local economy but also enhance the educational fabric of the community.
The presence of these institutions helps foster a vibrant atmosphere filled with diverse cultural and academic events.
Wayland, MA
Wayland, Massachusetts, presents an idyllic suburban experience, rich with natural beauty and community activities.
This town northeast of Boston is known for its scenic locales such as Cochituate State Park and the Sudbury Valley Trustees Wildlife Sanctuary, which provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities like swimming and birdwatching.
The local real estate market reflects Wayland’s desirability, with the median home price listed at around $1 million as of early 2024, indicating a significant year-over-year increase.
This market is somewhat balanced, with homes selling close to their listing prices, reflecting steady demand.
Socially and culturally, Wayland is vibrant, hosting several annual events that bolster community spirit, such as the Arts & Crafts Fair and Wayland Fun Day.
The town is also very focused on environmental conservation and community planning, engaging residents in various activities and developments through its numerous town committees and boards.
These efforts contribute to maintaining Wayland’s charm and livability, making it a sought-after location for those looking to enjoy a quieter, suburban lifestyle while still being near Boston’s resources.
Wellesley, MA
Wellesley, Massachusetts, is a notably affluent suburb of Boston, distinguished by its high real estate values and robust educational infrastructure.
As of early 2024, the median listing home price in Wellesley was around $2.3 million, reflecting the town’s high-desirability residential market.
This price is slightly trending down by about 3% year-over-year, with properties typically being listed at $641 per square foot.
The local housing market remains competitive, characterized as a seller’s market, with homes generally selling for their asking price within approximately 70 days on the market.
The town is not just known for its expensive homes but also for its excellent public school system, which is highly rated across various levels from elementary to high school.
Moreover, Wellesley provides a wealth of amenities and community activities that enrich its residents’ lives, including weekly farmers’ markets and an arboretum on the Wellesley College campus, which contribute to the town’s appeal for families and professionals alike.
These attributes underscore Wellesley’s status as a prime suburban location with convenient access to Boston via public transit or major highways.
