Massachusetts offers a range of living experiences that are hard to rival. We narrowed down the very best places to live in the Bay State.
From brainy hubs buzzing with innovation to serene towns where tranquility reigns supreme, the Bay State has it all. If you’re scouting out top-tier places to live in Massachusetts, gear up for a deep dive into some of the top spots that pack a punch in terms of culture, community and charm. Without further ado, these are the best cities in Massachusetts. Enjoy!
- Population: 87,453
- Average age: 41.1
- Median household income: $164,607
- Average commute time: 28.4 minutes
- Walk score: 57
- Studio average rent: $2,050
- One-bedroom average rent: $2,000
- Two-bedroom average rent: $2,700
Newton is just a stone’s throw from Boston, it’s like the universe took a slice of urban dynamism and dropped it into a serene New England setting. Those tree-lined streets and beautiful homes? It’s almost deceptive, like the calm before a storm. However, instead of a storm, you get a burst of intellectual and cultural activity.
Newton isn’t just about good looks though. It’s got brains too. Job opportunities in and around the city are off the charts, especially if you’re in tech or academia. There’s a camaraderie in the air – folks attending art festivals, discussing new novels or debating which local startups are most likely to get a second round of funding. Looking for a place that’s both laidback and constantly evolving? Look no further than Newton.
- Population: 59,223
- Average age: 34.8
- Median household income: $122,356
- Average commute time: 29.1 minutes
- Walk score: 81
- Studio average rent: $2,484
- One-bedroom average rent: $2,750
- Two-bedroom average rent: $3,650
The vibe in Brookline is as if someone took the buzz of Boston and mixed it with a much more chill, community-driven charm. Yeah, it’s close to Boston, but Brookline has its own magic. Tree-lined streets, historic brownstones and plenty of parks are just a few of the attributes that land Brookline near the top of this list.
But don’t be fooled by its laid-back vibe. Brookline’s got a pulse that’s hard to ignore. The job scene is rock solid, with easy access to Boston’s booming industries. As for the community? Imagine weekend farmers markets, lively discussions at local diners and spontaneous street festivals. It’s a blend of cultures, ages and ideas that just, well, works.
- Population: 33,792
- Average age: 46.6
- Median household income: $185,686
- Average commute time: 31.6 minutes
- Walk score: 33
- One-bedroom average rent: $2,955
- Two-bedroom average rent: $3,440
Lexington is a town where the first shots of the American Revolution echoed, and that raw, revolutionary energy still pulses through its streets. With its historic landmarks and sprawling green spaces, Lexington is a visual feast for those who appreciate a touch of history in their daily life. Battle Green might be calm now, but its silent tribute to the spirit of America is undeniable.
Don’t confuse respect for the past with denial of the future, however. Lexington is a powerhouse in terms of employment, especially for tech-savvy folks. Close to Boston’s tech corridor, opportunities here aren’t just jobs; they’re careers and pathways to change the world. Schools in Lexington are often ranked among the best in the state, setting up kids to shoot for the stars, literally and metaphorically.
- Population: 28,747
- Average age: 34.8
- Median household income: $226,250
- Average commute time: 29.8 minutes
- Walk score: 37
- One-bedroom average rent: $3,100
- Two-bedroom average rent: $3,850
Easily among the best places to live in Massachusetts, Wellesley has this unique blend of elite sophistication with a chaser of classic New England charm. Drive through its streets, and you’re met with elegant homes, meticulously maintained landscapes and the unmistakable sense of history that lingers in the air.
But let’s dig deeper. Beyond its stunning facade, Wellesley boasts some serious credentials. The job opportunities are top-notch, with a proximity to Boston that means you’re never too far from the action. The academic scene is anchored by Wellesley College, a small but widely respected liberal arts school for women. Dive into the community side of things, and you’re looking at a blend of outdoorsy types, avid readers and gourmet food lovers, among many other passions and interests.
- Population: 117,090
- Average age: 30.6
- Median household income: $112,565
- Average commute time: 26.5 minutes
- Walk score: 90
- Studio average rent: $2,910
- One-bedroom average rent: $3,769
- Two-bedroom average rent: $4,736
Right across the Charles River from Boston, Cambridge is where intellect meets street cred. With institutions like MIT and Harvard, it’s no surprise that the air here is practically crackling with potential from its thriving college community. It’s the kind of place where tomorrow’s tech breakthroughs and groundbreaking theories are probably being scribbled on a napkin in a crowded pub right now.
But hey, it’s not all textbooks and laboratories. The job scene in Cambridge is absolutely killer, especially if you’re into the medical and technology fields. The squares – Harvard, Central and Kendall – are like their own mini ecosystems of culture, food and entertainment. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee, catching an impromptu street performance or just people-watching, there’s always a story of epic proportions unfolding in Cambridge in the medical and technology fields and beyond.
- Population: 79,815
- Average age: 31.5
- Median household income: $108,896
- Average commute time: 32.3 minutes
- Walk score: 89
- Studio average rent: $2,798
- One-bedroom average rent: $3,112
- Two-bedroom average rent: $3,445
Somerville is a melting pot of culture and creativity, just a hop away from the heart of Boston. Among the best places to live in Massachusetts, Somerville stakes its claim with a fierce and independent spirit. It’s where artistry meets urban grit, where every alley might be hiding a mural, an indie coffee shop or the next big idea in tech.
Employment opportunities are ample, especially with the close-knit startup community and a slew of creatives calling this place home. Proximity to universities and Boston’s business hubs makes it a magnet for opportunities. But here’s the real kicker: the community. It’s a melting pot, with festivals that celebrate every culture under the sun and markets that boast flavors from every corner of the globe. Education is a big deal, with schools that focus not just on grades but on shaping well-rounded citizens of the world.
- Population: 17,669
- Average age: 46
- Median household income: $169,335
- Average commute time: 34 minutes
- Walk score: 35
- Two-bedroom average rent: $2,900
Concord is undoubtedly one of the best places to live in Massachusetts, and here’s why. Settled deep in the heartland of New England, Concord possesses a unique blend of historic charm and untouched natural beauty. There’s just amazing energy, as if the spirits of literary giants like Emerson and Thoreau are still lingering, probably writing their next masterpiece by Walden Pond. Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House also draws tourists into the town. The scenic landscapes, rolling hills and lush forests make it seem like Mother Nature herself decided to craft a perfect postcard setting here.
But it’s not just about the aesthetic. Take a closer look at the community and you’ll find a thriving hub of innovation and education. With job opportunities that range from tech startups to sustainable farming, Concord keeps pace with the modern world while retaining its small-town charm. Concord is a place where neighbors know each other, gatherings at local cafes become intellectual debates and the weekend farmers market is more of a social event than a chore. Concord just might be your jam if you’re seeking that ever-elusive balance between the serene and the stimulating.
- Population: 29,311
- Average age: 40
- Median household income: $72,687
- Average commute time: 21.8 minutes
- Walk score: 72
- One-bedroom average rent: $2,250
Northampton is a hub of energy and authenticity. If you’re on the hunt for the best places to live in Massachusetts, you’d be hard-pressed not to head straight to Northampton. There’s a distinct beat to this place, where you might bump into a street musician pouring his soul into a saxophone one moment and stumble upon a cutting-edge art exhibit the next.
The surrounding nature is a real added bonus. Rolling hills, scenic trails and the Connecticut River – it’s an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. With a bustling downtown and an influx of innovative businesses, there’s no shortage of opportunity. The schools are solid, focusing on cultivating curious minds ready to take on the world. Whether it’s cheering at the local music venues, attending film festivals or just enjoying the next-level food scene, Northampton offers residents an experience like no other.
- Population: 37,819
- Average age: 23
- Median household income: $61,127
- Average commute time: 26.9 minutes
- Walk score: 52
- Studio average rent: $2,049
- One-bedroom average rent: $2,249
- Two-bedroom average rent: $3,079
Often hitting the radar as one of the best places to live in Massachusetts, Amherst is an appealing and unique place to call home. With a backdrop of dense forests and open fields, it’s easy to think you’ve stepped into a tranquil paradise. But beneath that serene surface, there’s a storm of ideas, debates and dreams.
Universities like UMass Amherst, Amherst College and Hampshire College make this place a powerhouse of academia. You can practically feel the hunger for knowledge in the air. Jobs are as diverse as the community itself, with academia, research and local businesses driving the economy. The community has its own rhythm, driven by students, professors and lifetime locals. Think local farms delivering the freshest produce, indie bookstores hosting fiery poetry slams and an arts scene that’s constantly pushing boundaries.
- Population: 11,261
- Average age: 45.6
- Median household income: $220,815
- Average commute time: 26.6 minutes
- Walk score: 49
- Two-bedroom average rent: $ 2,550
If there’s a gold standard for living the good life in the Bay State, Weston might hold the title. Making waves as one of the best places to live in Massachusetts, this town redefines what it means to strike a balance. It’s where the green expanse of New England landscapes meets a community that’s high-octane in ambition but relaxed in vibe.
Despite being just a short drive from Boston’s city center, when you’re in Weston, it feels worlds away from the bustle. Think sprawling estates, tree-lined avenues and untouched natural reserves. The job market is strong, buoyed by its proximity to Boston’s corporate hubs and a local community that values enterprise. The community is close, reflecting a place where folks are as likely to bond over a round of golf as they are over a local conservation project.
Make your way to Massachusetts
There you have it, a whirlwind tour of some of the best places to live in Massachusetts. While each town featured above boasts its own flavor, they all share a commitment to community, education and quality of life. Whether you’re chasing the rush of urban energy or the peace of a countryside retreat, Massachusetts lays out a smorgasbord of options. It’s all about finding that perfect spot where your story fits right in.
Ready to settle down in the Massachusetts town of your dreams? Find your next apartment with us today.
Source: rent.com