If you’re looking to live near Boston but want to explore options outside the city, you’re in luck. The greater Boston area is home to a diverse collection of cities and towns offering a high quality of life, easy access to the city, and historic character and charm. Here are the top 10 cities near Boston to consider calling home in 2024.
The best cities near Boston
1. Cambridge
- Driving distance from downtown Boston: 3.4 miles
- Commute time to Boston via car: 23 minutes
- Commute time to Boston via public transit: 12 minutes
- Population: 118,488
- Median rent: $3,500 according to July rent research
- Best for: Intellectuals, students, and young professionals
- Attractions: Harvard University, MIT, Harvard Square, Charles River
Why Cambridge is a great place to live
Home to two of the world’s most prestigious universities, Harvard and MIT, Cambridge is a lively and intellectually stimulating city. With its diverse population, eclectic dining scene, abundance of bookstores and coffee shops, and green spaces, Cambridge feels like the picture-perfect college town. It’s location along the Charles River, supplies ample opportunities for runners and rowers.
2. Somerville
- Driving distance from downtown Boston: 3.8 miles
- Commute time to Boston via car: 21 minutes
- Commute time to Boston via public transit: 29 minutes
- Population: 79,761
- Median rent: $3,300 according to July rent research
- Best for: Artists, foodies, and community-oriented individuals
- Attractions: Davis Square, Assembly Row, Somerville Theatre
Why Somerville is a great place to live
Somerville has a thriving arts scene and is full of vibrant public squares, such as Davis Square and Union, hubs of activity featuring live music venues, independent shops, and popular restaurants. Somerville also offers excellent public transportation options, making commuting to Boston and exploring the surrounding areas easy.
3. Medford
- Driving distance from downtown Boston: 5.6 miles
- Commute time to Boston via car: 26 minutes
- Commute time to Boston via public transit: 39 minutes
- Population: 85,556
- Median household income: $114,863
- Median rent: $3,300 according to July rent research
- Best for: Families, outdoor enthusiasts, and history buffs
- Attractions: Tufts University, Wright’s Tower, Medford Square
Why Medford is a great place to live
Medford is another great college town. The city is home to Tufts University, contributing to a vibrant, youthful atmosphere. Medford also boasts numerous parks and green spaces, including the Middlesex Fells Reservation, which is full of hiking and biking trails. As with much of New England, Medford has a lot of local and National history, reflected in its well-preserved architecture and landmarks.
4. Brookline
- Driving distance from downtown Boston: 5.3 miles
- Commute time to Boston via car: 27 minutes
- Commute time to Boston via public transit: 32 minutes
- Population: 62,698
- Median rent: $3,400 according to July rent research
- Best for: Families, professionals, and students
- Attractions: Coolidge Corner, Larz Anderson Park, John F. Kennedy National Historic Site
Why Brookline is a great place to live
Brookline is a charming and affluent town that provides its residents with excellent schools nad beautiful parks. The town’s Coolidge Corner neighborhood is a popular destination featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Brookline is also home to several historic sites, including the birthplace of John F. Kennedy. With its proximity to Boston and access to public transportation, Brookline is an ideal location for those who want to enjoy the benefits of suburban living while still being close to the city.
5. Malden
- Driving distance from downtown Boston: 4.6 miles
- Commute time to Boston via car: 30 minutes
- Commute time to Boston via public transit: 14 minutes
- Population: 64,712
- Median household income: $90,295
- Median rent: $2,600 according to July rent research
- Best for: Commuters, diverse community, and affordable living
- Attractions: Fellsmere Park, Malden Center, Boda Borg Boston
Why Malden is a great place to live
Malden is a diverse and welcoming city with a more affordable cost of living than some of its neighbors. Its convenient location and access to public transportation make it an attractive option for commuters. Malden Center, the city’s downtown area, has undergone significant revitalization in the last few years, with new restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. Residents enjoy the city’s multiple outdoor spaces, including scenic Fellsmere Park.
6. Watertown
- Driving distance from downtown Boston: 8.3 miles
- Commute time to Boston via car: 34 minutes
- Commute time to Boston via public transit: 27 minutes
- Population: 35,329
- Median household income: $117,625
- Median rent: $2,955 according to July rent research
- Best for: Families, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts
- Attractions: Charles River Greenway, Mount Auburn Cemetery, Armenian Library and Museum of America
Why Watertown is a great place to live
Watertown is a historic town just outside of Boston. It is situated along the Charles River, providing residents with beautiful waterfront views and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Watertown is also known for its strong Armenian community and cultural heritage, which the community celebrates through various festivals and events throughout the year. The town’s excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and friendly community make it an ideal place for families to call home.
7. Waltham
- Driving distance from downtown Boston: 9.8 miles
- Commute time to Boston via car: 36 minutes
- Commute time to Boston via public transit: 27 minutes
- Population: 64,065
- Median household income: $113,443
- Median rent: $3,000 according to July rent research
- Best for: Young professionals, tech industry workers, and foodies
- Attractions: Moody Street, Charles River Museum of Industry and Innovation, Rose Art Museum
Why Waltham is a great place to live
Waltham is a vibrant and growing city that has become a hub for the tech industry. The city’s Moody Street is a popular destination, offering a diverse array of restaurants, bars, and shops. Waltham is also home to Brandeis University and Bentley University, contributing to the city’s young and educated population. With its strong job market, convenient location, and lively downtown area, Waltham is an attractive option for young professionals and families.
8. Newton
- Driving distance from downtown Boston: 10.3 miles
- Commute time to Boston via car: 33 minutes
- Commute time to Boston via public transit: 1 hour 6 minutes
- Population: 87,382
- Median rent: $3,375 according to July rent research
- Best for: Families, education, and suburban living
- Attractions: Newton Centre, Crystal Lake, Jackson Homestead and Museum
Why Newton is a great place to live
Newton is an affluent and picturesque city with a high quality of life and excellent schools. The city is known for its beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, and well-maintained parks. Newton is divided into 13 villages, each with unique character and charm. The city’s Newton Centre is a popular shopping and dining destination featuring a variety of local boutiques and restaurants. With its strong sense of community, top-rated schools, and convenient location, Newton is an ideal place for families to call home.
9. Quincy
- Driving distance from downtown Boston: 8.1 miles
- Commute time to Boston via car: 34 minutes
- Commute time to Boston via public transit: 29 minutes
- Population: 101,727
- Median rent: $2,600 according to July rent research
- Best for: Beach lovers, history enthusiasts, and affordable living
- Attractions: Wollaston Beach, Adams National Historical Park, Quincy Center
Why Quincy is a great place to live
Quincy is a historic coastal city that offers a more affordable cost of living compared to Boston while still providing easy access to the city. Known as the “City of Presidents,” Quincy is the birthplace of two U.S. presidents, John Adams, and John Quincy Adams, and is home to the Adams National Historical Park. The city also boasts several beautiful beaches, including Wollaston Beach, which offers stunning views of the Boston skyline. Quincy Center, the city’s downtown area, has undergone significant redevelopment recently, with new restaurants, shops, and entertainment options.
Whether you’re drawn to the intellectual vibrancy of Cambridge, the artistic flair of Somerville, or the historic charm of Quincy, these top 10 cities near Boston offer something for everyone in 2024.
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