Are you a lover of great and cozy places when it comes to accommodations? One name that should be on the list in almost everyone’s mouth is Massachusetts. The reason is that there are hundreds if not thousands of amazing places to live in Massachusetts.
Just to save you the stress of trying to figure out the best among the many choices, we have curated 17 places that will suit your cravings for luxury and same time budget-friendly.
Plymouth, Massachusetts is considered to be the birthplace of America as it was the site of the first European settlement in 1620.
This historic event set the stage for the state’s ongoing role as a leader in progressive transformation at a national level.
Initially known for its agricultural, fishing, and whaling industries, this location evolved into the original hub of American manufacturing.
In the late 20th century, the state underwent a significant transformation and became a leader in technology and the arts, earning the nickname “The Massachusetts Miracle.”
This reinvention has inspired similar revitalization efforts in other parts of the world. Today, the Greater Boston area alone has more IT expertise than some entire European nations.
Massachusetts is now recognized as a state with prestigious academic institutions, and it comes as no surprise that education and technology are its primary industries.
WalletHub ranked Massachusetts as the most educated state in America in 2017 and the third most innovative state. The state also received a sixth overall ranking for the best states to raise a family, with strong ratings in education, child care, health and safety, affordability, and family fun.
Massachusetts offers desirable places to live throughout the state, with higher living costs near Boston and a slower pace of life farther away.
However, this slower pace should not be mistaken for being boring.
11 Fun Facts about Massachusetts
1. Basketball Birthplace
In 1891, Springfield, Massachusetts, became the birthplace of basketball, a sport that has since captivated audiences worldwide. Dr. James Naismith, a physical education instructor at the YMCA Training School, devised the game to keep his students active during the harsh New England winters.
Naismith’s initial concept involved attaching peach baskets to the walls of the gymnasium and tossing a soccer ball through them. Over time, the rules evolved, and basketball emerged as a dynamic and competitive sport.
The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, located in Springfield, pays homage to the game’s history and its legendary players. Visitors can explore exhibits, watch videos, and witness firsthand the memorabilia that chronicles basketball’s remarkable journey.
2. First Zip Code
Agawam, Massachusetts, holds the distinction of being home to the first zip code ever assigned in the United States – 01001. Introduced in 1963, zip codes revolutionized mail delivery by streamlining the sorting and distribution of postal items.
The brainchild of postal official H.R. Stuart, zip codes assigned a unique five-digit code to each post office, enabling mail carriers to quickly identify and deliver mail to specific locations. Today, zip codes remain an essential component of the postal system, ensuring that letters, packages, and other mail reach their intended destinations efficiently.
3. Cranberry State
Massachusetts’s significant production of cranberries has earned it the well-deserved nickname “The Cranberry State.” Ranking second in the nation for cranberry cultivation, the state boasts vast cranberry bogs, particularly in the southeastern region.
Cranberries are a versatile fruit with a tart and tangy flavor, widely used in various products. They are a key ingredient in juices, sauces, baked goods, and even dietary supplements. Their unique flavor profile and nutritional value have made them a popular choice among consumers worldwide.
4. Baked Bean State
Massachusetts’s culinary heritage is deeply intertwined with baked beans, a traditional New England dish that has earned the state the nickname “The Baked Bean State.” Often served with brown bread, baked beans offer a hearty and flavorful meal.
The origins of baked beans in Massachusetts can be traced back to the early colonial era when beans were a staple food. Over time, various recipes and cooking techniques emerged, with each family adding its own unique touch. Today, baked beans remain a beloved dish, often served on special occasions and family gatherings.
5. Oldest Lighthouse
Standing proudly in Boston Harbor, Boston Light holds the title of the oldest continuously operating lighthouse in the United States. First lit in 1718, this beacon has served as a guiding light for mariners for over 300 years.
The construction of Boston Light was prompted by the increasing maritime traffic in the harbor, as ships faced navigational hazards due to the rocky coastline and unpredictable weather conditions. The lighthouse’s distinctive red brick tower and Fresnel lens have become iconic symbols of maritime history and the city of Boston.
6. Paper House
Rockport, Massachusetts, is home to an architectural marvel – the Paper House, constructed entirely of newspapers. Built by Elis F. Stenman in 1922, this unique structure stands as a testament to human ingenuity and resourcefulness.
Stenman, a retired postman, utilized discarded newspapers as the primary building material, layering them with cement to create walls, floors, and even furniture. The Paper House’s construction took several years and required meticulous craftsmanship.
Today, the Paper House serves as a popular tourist attraction, showcasing an unconventional building method and offering visitors a glimpse into the creativity and resourcefulness of its builder.
7. Longest Place Name
Massachusetts holds the title for the town with the longest place name in the country: Manchaug, Massachusetts. With its eleven letters, Manchaug stands out as a linguistic curiosity, adding a touch of distinctiveness to the state’s geography.
The origins of Manchaug’s name can be traced back to the Nipmuc people, who inhabited the area before European colonization. The name is believed to derive from a Nipmuc word meaning “at the place of the great owl.”
Manchaug’s lengthy name has become a source of pride for its residents and a point of interest for visitors. It serves as a reminder of the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.
8. Roadside Rocking Horses
Massachusetts’s roadways are adorned with a unique sight – roadside rocking horses. These whimsical wooden sculptures have become a beloved tradition, adding a touch of charm and nostalgia to the state’s landscape.
The tradition of roadside rocking horses in Massachusetts dates back to the early 20th century when merchants and businesses began placing them along their roadsides to attract attention and encourage passersby to stop and visit. These charming figures quickly became a popular attraction, bringing smiles to the faces of children and adults alike.
Over the years, roadside rocking horses have become an enduring symbol of Massachusetts’s unique character. They appear along highways, country roads, and even in residential neighborhoods, adding a touch of whimsy to the state’s landscape.
While the exact number of roadside rocking horses in Massachusetts is unknown, their presence is a testament to the state’s creativity and sense of fun. These beloved sculptures continue to capture the hearts of visitors and residents alike, reminding everyone of the simple joys of childhood and the beauty of the natural world.
9. Unconventional Laws
Massachusetts’s history is rich in quirky laws that reflect the state’s unique character and cultural traditions. One such law prohibits the use of tomatoes in clam chowder, a culinary rule that has sparked debate among residents and visitors alike.
While this law may seem unusual, it highlights the state’s deep-rooted culinary heritage and the importance of preserving traditional recipes. The debate over tomatoes in clam chowder adds a touch of lightheartedness to the state’s cultural landscape.
10. Christmas Ban
In 1659, the Massachusetts Bay Colony passed a law banning the celebration of Christmas, considering it a pagan holiday. This decision reflected the colony’s Puritanical roots and strict adherence to religious principles.
The ban on Christmas was lifted in 1681, following the change in political leadership and a growing sentiment for religious tolerance. However, the law remains a reminder of the state’s complex religious history and the ongoing evolution of societal norms.
11. Tabby Cat as State Cat
In 1988, Massachusetts officially adopted the tabby cat as its state cat, following a campaign by schoolchildren. This decision was made in recognition of the tabby cat’s friendly and affectionate nature, qualities that embody the state’s welcoming spirit, and its reputation for being a friendly and inviting place to live.
Tabby cats are a common sight in Massachusetts, both as beloved pets and as strays roaming the streets. Their presence adds a touch of warmth and familiarity to the state’s landscape, and their gentle nature reflects the state’s compassionate spirit.
17 Best Places to Live in Massachusetts
Massachusetts is a great state to live in, with a variety of cities and towns to choose from. Here are the 17 best places to live in Massachusetts, according to Niche:
1. Brookline
Brookline is a wealthy suburb of Boston with a population of about 60,000 people. It is known for its excellent schools, beautiful parks, and safe neighborhoods. Brookline is also home to many cultural attractions, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the Longwood Medical Area.
2. Lexington
Lexington is a historic town of about 33,000 people located about 15 miles west of Boston.
It is known for its role in the American Revolution and is home to many historic sites, including the Battle Green and the Lexington Historical Society.
Lexington is also home to a number of parks and recreational facilities, including the Great Brook Farm State Park and the Lexington Reservoir.
3. Newton
Newton is a wealthy suburb of Boston with a population of about 85,000 people. It is known for its excellent schools, beautiful parks, and safe neighborhoods. Newton is also home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Newton Centre for the Arts and the Fuller Museum.
4. Wellesley
Wellesley is a wealthy suburb of Boston with a population of about 28,000 people. It is home to Wellesley College, one of the most prestigious women’s colleges in the country. Wellesley is also known for its beautiful parks and safe neighborhoods.
5. Concord
Concord is a historic town of about 18,000 people located about 20 miles west of Boston. It is known for its role in the American Revolution and is home to many historic sites, including the Concord River and the Old Manse. Concord is also home to a number of parks and recreational facilities, including the Walden Pond State Reservation and the Fruitlands Museum.
6. Cambridge
Cambridge is a city of about 105,000 people located across the Charles River from Boston. It is home to Harvard University, one of the most prestigious universities in the world. Cambridge is also known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, and its many restaurants and shops.
7. Somerville
Somerville is a city of about 80,000 people located just outside of Boston. It is known for its diverse population, its vibrant arts and culture scene, and its many restaurants and shops. Somerville is also home to a number of parks and recreational facilities, including the Mystic River Bikeway and the Tufts University Community Garden.
8. Amherst
Amherst is a town of about 9,500 people located in western Massachusetts. It is home to the University of Massachusetts Amherst, one of the largest public universities in the country. Amherst is also known for its beautiful surroundings, including the Mount Holyoke Range and the Pioneer Valley.
9. Northampton
Northampton is a city of about 28,000 people located in western Massachusetts. It is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, its many restaurants and shops, and its commitment to sustainability. Northampton is also home to a number of parks and recreational facilities, including the Smith College Botanic Garden and the Paradise Pond State Wildlife Management Area.
10. Milton
Milton is a town of about 27,000 people located about 10 miles south of Boston. It is known for its excellent schools, beautiful parks, and safe neighborhoods. Milton is also home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Milton Art Center and the Crane Estate.
11. Belmont
Belmont is a town of about 24,000 people located about 7 miles west of Boston. It is known for its excellent schools, beautiful parks, and safe neighborhoods. Belmont is also home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Belmont Center for the Arts and the Belmont Historical Society.
12. Winchester
Winchester is a town of about 22,000 people located about 10 miles north of Boston. It is known for its excellent schools, beautiful parks, and safe neighborhoods. Winchester is also home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Winchester Historical Society and the Winchester Symphony Orchestra.
13. Arlington
Arlington is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, with excellent schools, parks, and recreational facilities. The town boasts numerous parks and playgrounds, providing ample space for children to play and families to gather.
Arlington also hosts a variety of family-friendly events, such as the annual Taste of Arlington, a culinary celebration featuring food from local establishments. These events foster a sense of community and provide opportunities for residents to connect with one another.
14. Wayland
Wayland is a town of about 14,000 people located about 25 miles west of Boston. It is known for its excellent schools, beautiful parks, and safe neighborhoods. Wayland is also home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Wayland Historical Society and the Wayland Youth Theatre.
15. Needham
Needham is a town of about 30,000 people located about 15 miles southwest of Boston. It is known for its excellent schools, beautiful parks, and safe neighborhoods. Needham is also home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Needham Art Center and the Needham Historical Society.
16. Rockport
Rockport is a town of about 6,000 people located on the North Shore of Massachusetts. It is known for its picturesque harbor, its beautiful beaches, and its artistic community. Rockport is also home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Rockport Art Association and the Halibut Festival.
17. Provincetown
Provincetown is a town of about 3,500 people located at the tip of Cape Cod. It is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, its many restaurants and shops, and its welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQ+ people. Provincetown is also home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Provincetown Art Association and Museum and the Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum.
Conclusion
Massachusetts is a state with a rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse landscape. It is home to some of the best schools, hospitals, and businesses in the country. Massachusetts is also a great place to raise a family, with many safe and affordable communities.
Selecting the best places to live in Massachusetts depends on your individual needs and preferences.
If you are looking for a vibrant and exciting city, Boston is a great option. If you are looking for a quiet and suburban community, Brookline or Lexington are good choices.
Also, if you are looking for a town with a strong sense of community, Amherst or Northampton are great options.
And if you are looking for a town with a beautiful coastal setting, Rockport or Provincetown are perfect choices.
No matter where you choose to live in Massachusetts, you are sure to find a community that you will love.
Reference
- https://www.touropia.com/best-cities-in-massachusetts-to-live-and-visit/
- https://www.thecrazytourist.com/15-best-places-live-massachusetts/
