Thinking about moving to Massachusetts? You’re not alone! The Bay State ranks #1 for livability, has the 2nd-highest GDP per capita, and scored 74/100 on the quality of life index. With elite schools and top healthcare, it’s the perfect place to build your future!
Boston’s Back Bay and Cambridge’s Kendall Square buzz with energy, while Newton has top-rated schools for your kids. Is it any wonder that nearly 70K people moved to Massachusetts last year alone? So, let’s explore the best places to live in Massachusetts in 2025!
What are the Best Places to Live in Massachusetts?
| # City | Weighted Average Scores * | Median House Price | Median Income | Cost of Living | Community Wellbeing | Crime Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Barnstable | 62.7 | $655K | $94K | 17.2% ⬆️ | 64 | 38 |
| 2. Reading | 59 | $717K | $155K | 35.3% ⬆️ | 81 | 67 |
| 3. Wilmington | 58.5 | $615K | $151K | 26.6% ⬆️ | 81 | 47 |
| 4. Worcester | 54.1 | $425K | $63K | 22.3% ⬆️ | 62 | 17 |
| 5. Newburyport | 53.9 | $840K | $127K | 22.5% ⬆️ | 67 | 66 |
| 6. Springfield | 52.1 | $308K | $48K | 13.2% ⬆️ | 56 | 9 |
| 7. Marblehead | 48.1 | $1M | $164K | 52.9% ⬆️ | 67 | 73 |
| 8. Stoneham | 47.7 | $779K | $113K | 53.1% ⬆️ | 81 | 46 |
| 9. Peabody | 45.6 | $638K | $91K | 53% ⬆️ | 67 | 45 |
| 10. Boston | 44.3 | $845K | $89K | 53.1% ⬆️ | 84 | 14 |
*These cities are ranked based on our research methodology.
To simplify your search in the Massachusetts housing market, we’ve sorted the top 10 cities into four categories: for young professionals, for single families, for retirees, and the best coastal towns. Each city is evaluated based on career opportunities, affordability, community, and lifestyle.
3 Best Places to Live in Massachusetts for Young Adults 💼
1. Boston
- Median House Price: $845K
Cost of Living: 53.1% ⬆️ than the national average.
Crime Rate: Safer than 14% of US cities.
Unemployment: 6.6%
Walkability Score: 99; walker’s paradise.
Home to Boston University and a stone’s throw from Harvard in Cambridge, Boston blends academic excellence with a thriving cultural scene. The city is also home to iconic teams like the Boston Red Sox, Celtics, and Bruins—sports is practically a religion here.
With over 43% of the jobs in powerhouse industries like healthcare, education, and professional services, landing a solid gig isn’t a struggle here. Want to unwind? Catch a concert at Boston Calling, or grab a pint in a centuries-old tavern. Work, play, repeat!
» Boston Homes for Sale: Explore properties in one of the best places to live in Massachusetts.
2. Reading
- Median House Price: $717K
Cost of Living: 35.3% ⬆️ than the national average.
Crime Rate: Safer than 67% of US cities.
Unemployment: 2.8%
Walkability Score: 36; car-dependent city.
Reading is that sweet spot between city life and suburban chill—close enough to Boston and Cambridge, but far enough from the hustle and bustle. Moreover, the Reading Fall Street Faire turns the town into a party, packed with food trucks and live music.
The downtown scene doesn’t disappoint either. Memorial Park keeps things lively with local bands and theater acts. Plus, with its proximity to major universities and job centers, Reading is a top pick for young professionals chasing big dreams.
» Reading Homes for Sale: Find your dream home in one of the best towns to live in Massachusetts.
3. Worcester
- Median House Price: $425K
Cost of Living: 22.3% ⬆️ than the national average.
Crime Rate: Safer than 17% of US cities.
Unemployment: 6.6%
Walkability Score: 92; walker’s paradise.
Worcester’s got it all—sports, fun, and savings! From the Massachusetts Pirates lighting up the field to rowing races at Lake Quinsigamond, there’s never a dull moment. Worcester State University also brings that college-town feel with its university sports.
And if you’re tired of higher rents, Worcester’s got you covered. The city’s cost of living is 12.5% lower than the state average. With a calendar packed with events like stART on the Street, it’s the kind of place where you can live it up.
» Worcester Homes for Sale: Search for homes in one of the best places to live in Massachusetts for young professionals.
3 Best Places to Live in Massachusetts for Families 👨👩👧👦
1. Wilmington
- Median House Price: $615K
Cost of Living: 26.6% ⬆️ than the national average.
Crime Rate: Safer than 47% of US cities.
Unemployment: 4.4%
Walkability Score: 23; car-dependent city.
Wilmington’s the perfect blend of relaxation and convenience—you get the suburban feel, and Boston is just a short drive away. Silver Lake’s your go-to for a beach day or a paddleboard session, and downtown’s got plenty of restaurants with delicious food.
Healthcare jobs account for over 16% of Wilmington’s workforce, followed by professional services and the retail sectors. With a low cost of living and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s one of the best places to live in Massachusetts for families.
» Wilmington Homes for Sale: Search houses in one of the best places to live in Massachusetts.
2. Marblehead
- Median House Price: $1M
Cost of Living: 52.9% ⬆️ than the national average.
Crime Rate: Safer than 56% of US cities.
Unemployment: 3.3%
Walkability Score: 64; somewhat walkable.
In Marblehead, you’ll find more sailboats than cars! With its quaint cobblestone streets and colonial buildings, this town celebrates its rich history. What’s more, the harbor area is a hub for yacht clubs and regattas. You’ll never be bored here!
With over 16% of residents working in professional services, Marblehead is as career-friendly as it is scenic. Moreover, Marblehead School District outperforms 96.2% of the schools in the US, which makes it one of the best places to raise a family in Massachusetts.
» Marblehead Homes for Sale: Explore properties in one of the best cities to live in MA.
3. Peabody
- Median House Price: $638K
Cost of Living: 53% ⬆️ than the national average.
Crime Rate: Safer than 45% of US cities.
Unemployment: 4.4%
Walkability Score: 43; car-dependent city.
Peabody is often referred to as the ‘Leather City’ due to its historical contribution to the leather industry. From Brooksby Farm’s century-old apple orchards to the Black Box Theater’s live performances, Peabody’s charm is undeniable.
If you’re looking for a good balance of suburban comfort and urban convenience, Peabody might be your answer. With its solid safety score and proximity to Boston, the city is one of the best places to live in Massachusetts for families.
» Peabody Homes for Sale: Find homes in one of the best towns in Massachusetts for families.
2 Best Places to Retire in Massachusetts 🏖️
1. Springfield
- Median House Price: $308K
Cost of Living: 13.2% ⬆️ than the national average.
Crime Rate: Safer than 9% of US cities.
Unemployment: 8.7%
Walkability Score: 87, very walkable.
Situated along the Connecticut River, Springfield’s got all the charm of a New England town. The city offers scenic riverside views at the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway. Moreover, the Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival is a celebration of jazz and roots music in summers.
This city isn’t just pretty, it offers affordable living options too. Springfield offers housing that is 28.2% cheaper than the US average. A perfect mix of nature and culture, Springfield should be on your list as one of the best places to retire in Massachusetts.
» Springfield Homes for Sale: Find homes in one of the best places to live in Massachusetts for retirees.
2. Stoneham
- Median House Price: $779K
Cost of Living: 53.1% ⬆️ than the national average.
Crime Rate: Safer than 46% of US cities.
Unemployment: 3.3%
Walkability Score: 45; car-dependent city.
In Stoneham, everything’s a little slower, but in the best possible way. Situated along the Middlesex Fells Reserve, the city is a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, the Greater Boston Stage Company keeps the vibe lively downtown.
Stoneham is an easy choice for people who seek to enjoy the simple things in life. The city’s significantly low crime rate and tight-knit community make it an ideal spot for anyone looking for a stress-free lifestyle.
» Stoneham Homes for Sale: Find the best properties in one of the best areas to live in Massachusetts.
2 Best Coastal Towns in Massachusetts🏄♀️
1. Barnstable
- Median House Price: $655K
Cost of Living: 17.2% ⬆️ than the national average.
Crime Rate: Safer than 38% of US cities.
Unemployment: 3.1%
Walkability Score: 46; car-dependent city.
Barnstable is a seaside town that feels like home from the moment you arrive! Sandy Neck and Craigville Beach offer a plethora of recreational activities. The Barnstable County Fair and the Hyannis 4th of July Parade bring the fun and fireworks.
Apart from this, the Black Cat Tavern is a local favorite for fresh seafood located on Hyannis Harbor. Barnstable’s affordable housing and relatively low crime rate make it one of the best coastal towns in Massachusetts.
» Barnstable Homes for Sale: Explore properties in one of the best coastal towns in Massachusetts.
2. Newburyport
- Median House Price: $840K
Cost of Living: 22.5% ⬆️ than the national average.
Crime Rate: Safer than 66% of US cities.
Unemployment: 5.7%
Walkability Score: 52; somewhat walkable.
If the ocean breeze and a good bowl of chowder sound good to you, welcome to Newburyport! Nestled along the Merrimack River, this coastal city offers scenic views and plenty of water sports, from regattas to paddleboarding.
This city isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about living well. With a low crime rate and a yearly Fall Harvest Festival that celebrates everything local, Newburyport is one of the best coastal towns in Massachusetts to call home.
» Newburyport Homes for Sale: Find properties in one of the best places to live in Massachusetts near water.
Mortgage Pre-Approval: Your First Step to Buy a Home 🏡
Mortgage pre-approval simplifies the home-buying process by giving you a clear picture of your budget and borrowing capacity. Additionally, the sellers are more likely to accept your offer if you’re pre-approved since it shows you’re a serious buyer.
With the current low mortgage rate of 6.6%, there is an increase in home-buying demand in Massachusetts. So, don’t wait. Get a mortgage pre-approval today and avoid bidding wars!
Is Massachusetts a Good Place to Live for You?
Massachusetts is one of the best places to live in the US due to its robust employment market and top-notch education. Apart from being the most environmentally friendly state in the nation, Massachusetts also boasts a rich cultural history.
The price of living in Massachusetts is 25% higher than the US average. However, cities like Worcester and Springfield offer affordable housing options.
Research Methodology for the Best Places to Live in Massachusetts
This study ranks cities using a weighted average scoring model based on eight parameters. We’ve linked the resources used in our study of the best places to live in the Bay State:
- Redfin[1]: Median House Price
- Zipatlas[2]: Population, Median Income, Expenses, Unemployment Rate
- Salary.com[3]: Cost of Living
- Sharecare[4]: Community Well-Being
- Neighborhoodscout[5]: Crime Index Score
The total score for each city combines a weighted score for its rank. Here’s the weightage: population (10%), home price (20%), income (20%), expenses (15%), unemployment (15%), cost of living (10%), crime index (5%), and well-being (5%).
Additionally, we have listed the best cities to live in Massachusetts for varying demographics. These include families, young adults, and retirees.
