Welcome to our blog, Today we explore The 07 Best places to live in Massachusetts in 2023 From scenic countryside to bustling city centers, Massachusetts has something for everyone. We’ve done the research and compiled a list of the 07 best places to live in Massachusetts. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant culture, easy access to public transportation, or just a great place to raise a family you’ll find it here. So without further ado, let’s dive in and explore the best place of Massachusetts in 2023
The state of Massachusetts, widely regarded as the birthplace of the United States of America, has a rich historical background. Its association with the Pilgrims’ landing on Plymouth Rock, Boston’s significant role in the American Revolution, and the state’s connection to various influential personalities and celebrities are all well-known. However, what does it feel like to live in Massachusetts?
As a part of the central New England region, Massachusetts is a highly desirable state for living. According to WalletHub, a platform that analyzes the economy, education, quality of life, and safety, Massachusetts is the most desirable state in the entire country. This is a significant endorsement of the state’s allure! Nonetheless, the only drawback is the high cost of living, as it is one of the most expensive states to reside in.
Despite this, for many people, the state’s numerous advantages surpass the costs, and Massachusetts boasts several exceptional communities. We have delved into safety statistics, real estate, the cost of living, and amenities to compile this list of the top 7 best places to live in Massachusetts.
07 Best places to live in Massachusetts in 2023
Here is the top best place to live in Massachusetts.
- Newton
- Melrose
- Beverly
- Cambridge
- Newburyport
- Waltham
- Woburn
Newton
Newton deserves high praise for maintaining its position as the best place to live in Massachusetts for the second year in a row. As an affluent Boston suburb, there are numerous reasons why Newton is an enviable location to reside in. Firstly, the poverty and unemployment rates in Newton are the 5th lowest in the state, standing at 4.3% and 3.3%, respectively. Additionally, it has the 4th lowest crime rate in Massachusetts, making it a safe community.
Education is a top priority in Newton. With a campus of the prestigious Boston College and Lasell University in the city, it is not surprising that three-quarters of the residents possess at least a bachelor’s degree, while nearly 50% have a master’s degree or higher. The presence of these institutions brings additional benefits, such as the ability to watch Eagles games at Alumni Stadium without venturing too far.
If you decide to make Newton your home, you should be aware that it comes with a high price tag. At $952,100, Newton has the most expensive housing prices in the state. However, the city’s residents earn the highest median household income, at $154,398 per year. To live comfortably in Newton, it is recommended that you earn a salary close to that amount, particularly since the cost of living in Newton is approximately 115% higher than the national average.
| Category | Value |
| Population | 88,322 approx |
| Rank Last Year | 1 |
| Median Home ValueUnemployment Rate | $952,1003.3% |
Melrose
Our second pick for the best place to live in Massachusetts is Melrose, another city located in the Greater Boston area. Like Newton, Melrose is also among the wealthiest cities in Massachusetts, so it is advisable to prepare yourself for this reality. With a median home price of $599,600, it ranks as the fifth most expensive place to buy a home in the state. Nevertheless, Melrose residents earn the second-highest median household income, so it all balances out as long as your household earns about $114,604 per year.
Melrose has the lowest poverty and unemployment rates in the state, standing at 3.9% and 4.2%, respectively. Typically, economic difficulties and criminal activities are closely related. It is therefore unsurprising that these low numbers make Melrose one of the safest cities in the state, with the third-lowest crime rate, approximately 75% below the national average.
| Category | Value |
| Population | 28,054 approx |
| Rank Last Year | 2 |
| Median Home Value | $599,600 |
| Unemployment Rate | 4.2% |
Beverly
Beverly is a small city located in Massachusetts with a population of 42,062. The city has a vibrant arts and entertainment scene, with the Larcom Theatre offering new musical and performing arts acts every month and The Cabot hosting concerts and movies.
Beverly School District spends roughly 50% more per student than the Massachusetts average, and the city’s crime rate is about 75% lower than the national average. The city has a strong economy, with low unemployment at 2.6% and a poverty level of 10.3%, which is the 13th lowest in Massachusetts. The median household income of $84,354/year is on the low end for this list but still the 9th highest in the state.
| Category | Value |
| Population | 42,062 approx |
| Rank Last Year | 3 |
| Median Home Value | $84,354 |
| Unemployment Rate | 2.6% |
Cambridge
Welcome to Cambridge, a charming small town that is home to two of the world’s leading academic institutions: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Harvard University.
With a population of 108,000 residents, this Middlesex County city offers a fulfilling life for those who enjoy being around intelligent individuals. Cambridge is not all about work and no play, as it offers a vibrant nightlife with numerous fantastic bars and restaurants, along with spectacular arts centers.
The average home price in Cambridge is $581,700, which is comparable to the going rate for a two-bedroom, one-bathroom condo. Despite the higher cost of living, the quality of life that Cambridge provides is unmatched, with access to world-class education, entertainment, and culture.
| Category | Value |
| Population | 117,822 approx |
| Rank Last Year | 4 |
| Median Home Value | $843,100 |
| Unemployment Rate | 4.0% |
Newburyport
Newburyport sounds like a great place to live for those who prioritize safety and a strong community. With a low poverty rate and crime rate, it seems like a peaceful and secure place to call home.
The dedication to education and the high median household income also makes it an attractive option for families. However, the high cost of homes might be a barrier for some.
Nonetheless, the location by the Merrimack River could provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and a tranquil environment.
| Category | Value |
| Population | 18,197 approx |
| Rank Last Year | 5 |
| Median Home Value | $608,300 |
| Unemployment Rate | 5.5% |
Waltham
Waltham, Massachusetts has been ranked as the sixth best place to reside in the state. The public schools in Waltham are highly acclaimed as they offer an impressive 11:1 student-teacher ratio, which is 20% better than the statewide average.
This ensures that every student receives the necessary attention required to excel academically. In addition, Waltham’s median household income of $95,851 per year is the seventh highest in Massachusetts, making it an ideal location for families. The city’s robust economy ensures that unemployment and poverty rates remain among the lowest in the state, making it an excellent place to live and work.
| Category | Value |
| Population | 62,597 approx |
| Rank Last Year | 6 |
| Median Home Value | $574,000 |
| Unemployment Rate | 2.6% |
Woburn
Woburn, Massachusetts has secured the seventh spot as one of the best places to reside in the state. Although the cost of living in Woburn is considerably higher than the national average, it is still a more affordable option when compared to Newton and Melrose. Additionally, residents still have access to beautiful outdoor spaces such as Horn Pond. This economic advantage has led to a significant increase in Woburn’s population in recent years.
Woburn has also been recognized for its safety, as it boasts the 11th-lowest crime rate in Massachusetts. This ensures that visitors and residents can enjoy their time in Woburn without worrying about any criminal activities disrupting their daily activities. In case of any unfortunate events, however, residents can take solace in knowing that 98.1% of Woburn’s residents have health insurance, which is the fourth highest rate in the state.
| Category | Value |
| Population | 40,297 approx |
| Rank Last Year | 7 |
| Median Home Value | $486,600 |
| Unemployment Rate | 5.3% |
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