The Best Cities Near Boston in 2024

Boston is one of the most historical cities in the country, full of academic and cultural opportunities, and is one of America’s priciest because of that. People seeking a combination of urban living along with innovation and plenty of activities and entertainment will fit right into the city. While living directly in the city provides its perks, the best cities near Boston provide a quieter lifestyle with their own special qualities — and a good chunk of change back in your bank account.

Numerous prominent institutions, such as Harvard and MIT, are located in Boston and offer a wide range of educational opportunities. Many historical sites and landmarks can also be found in Boston, such as the Freedom Trail and the Old North Church. You can check out what happened at the Boston Tea Party when you visit the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum.

The city of Boston is a great place for people who love nature and adventure, with plenty of green spaces such as the Boston Common. It is quite easy to get around the city due to its compact size and mass transit system known as the "T". 

Boston is also known for its passionate fans, who support popular professional sports teams like The Red Sox, Bruins, and Patriots.

10 Best Cities Near Boston

Living directly in the city can make it very easy to get around, but the best cities near Boston provide more of a laidback lifestyle with their own unique qualities. Here are the best cities near Boston if you’re planning a move that are hard not to fall in love with!

Somerville is the 15th most densely populated city in the country is very popular place to call home near Boston.

1. Somerville, MA

• Median rent (all sizes): $3.625
• Average home value: $917,900
• Great for: Students, families, attractions, dining, live music
• Commute into Boston: 20-25 minute drive

Located northwest of Boston, in Middlesex County, the city of Somerville is one of the best cities around Boston that’s known for being a great place to raise a family and enjoying all the community has to offer.

If you are looking for a fun activity to spend some time with the kids, then the Discovery Center of Legoland is a great place to visit. This learning center and amusement park is located between Boston and the city of Somerville, and it is perfect for children.

Besides being full of attractions, the city of Somerville also has a variety of great restaurants. One of these is Highland Kitchen, which serves Southern comfort food with a modern twist. This establishment has a great bar and a stage where local musicians can perform.

2. Marblehead, MA

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,250
• Average home value: $1,000,900
• Great for: Young professionals, retirees, yacht clubs, outdoor recreation, local entertainment
• Commute into Boston: 45-50 minute drive

Due to its proximity to the ocean, Marblehead is the place to be for those who enjoy luxury waterfront amenities. Several yacht clubs can be found in the community, and three of these clubs are located on Marblehead Neck, including one belonging to the Corinthian Yacht Club.

In addition to the beach areas, there are also several parks in the area, such as the Castle Rock Park and the Chandler Hovey Park with large and scenic sights of the ocean. If you are looking for something fun to do with your friends or couples in Marblehead, then head to Warwick Place where you can also find the luxurious Warwick Cinema. Dandee Donut Factory is also nearby for those who have a sweet tooth. 

3. Concord, MA

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $3,275
• Average home value: $1,407,000
• Great for: Families, retirees, history, outdoor recreation, unique architecture
• Commute into Boston: 50 minute drive

Concord has been around since the 1600s, and it has seen various architectural changes over the years. Many of the town's historical home styles that existed back in the day are still prominent!

Besides its Revolutionary War history, Concord also holds literary significance, including the homes of Ralph Waldo Emerson and his family. Other spots like the Orchard House are one of the sites where  Louisa May Alcott wrote "Little Women."

Besides being a historic and fascinating place to live, Concord also has plenty of parks that are ideal for any outdoor recreation activity. Some of the most popular parks in the area include the Emerson Playground and West Concord Park.

Newburyport is a small coastal city in Essex County with heavy colonial vibes.

4. Newburyport, MA

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,225
• Average home value: $874,100
• Great for: Families, retirees, history, outdoor attractions, unique retail options, beautiful architecture
• Commute into Boston: 1 hour drive

The charming city of Newburyport has plenty to offer for its residents, from the waterfront views to the tight knit and friendly atmosphere. Many of the Federal-style homes in the community were built during the late 1700s to the 1800s, and other notable home styles include those from the First Period, Georgian, and Greek Revival.

One of the most popular historic sites in the area is the Custom House Museum, which features a display about some of the most famous shipwrecks in the history of the sea. It also has model ships and information about the Coast Guard's history.

One of the area's popular outdoor attractions for some activity is the Waterfront Park, which features a boardwalk and gardens along the Merrimack River. People can also enjoy the area's many retailers, including Tannery Marketplace, which is actually a former mill.

5. Brookline, MA

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $3,600
• Average home value: $1,141,800
• Great for: Families, community engagement, fitness, local entertainment
• Commute into Boston: 25-minute drive

Despite its proximity to the outskirts of Boston, the small town feel of Brookline is still strong and beloved by its residents. A number of celebrities have called this community home over the years, including Tom Brady and Conan O'Brien!

Brookline has plenty of great facilities that are designed for different age groups to stay active and connected with the community. One of these facilities is the Brookline Teen Center, which allows young adults to explore different activities such as robotics and parkour. The town's senior center is another fabulous facility which features various programs and activities for seniors like yoga and hiking.

One of the town's most popular attractions is the Coolidge Corner Theater, which is an art deco movie theater that features new releases alongside older favorites and independent films. The local Coolidge Corner Clubhouse is another great attraction perfect for those who are passionate about sports and trivia.

6. Newton, MA

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $3,800
• Average home value: $1,456,100
• Great for: Students, top colleges, history, outdoor recreation
• Commute into Boston: 25-30 minute drive

If you are looking to relocate to somewhere near the city of Boston with a lot to offer, then Newton certainly is the place for you. It's located seven miles away from Boston's Downtown area and offers charming surroundings with excellent educational institutions that make it an ideal choice for families.

Many students who are studying at Ivy League schools choose to live in Newton, which is only a few minutes away from Cambridge's Harvard University. Some of the other top universities in the area include Brandeis and Bentley University.

One of the best places to enjoy outdoor activity is the Webster Conservation Area, which features a beautiful forest and a pond. It also has  walking trails and sandstone cliffs that can be used for climbing.

One of the most popular historical sites in the area is the Jackson Homestead and Museum, which is located in Newton Corner. This historic home was previously used as a stop for the Underground Railroad and is ideal for learning more about local and national history.

Beverly is about an hour away from Boston, giving families plenty of space and a strong economy of its own.

7. Beverly, MA

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,625
• Average home value: $719,400
• Great for: Families, job opportunities, outdoor recreation
• Commute into Boston: 50 minute to 1 hour drive

Located in Essex County, the city of Beverly is around 50 minutes away from Boston's center. It is known for its coastal setting and has plenty of beautiful homes, as well as low crime rates, which is desired by families.

Most of the city's jobs are in management, sales, and administrative roles. Some of its major employers include Axcelis Technology and N.E. Hospital Systems, along with a strong tech market as well.

The city of Beverly is situated on the beautiful Atlantic coast, and it has plenty of open areas and parks that are ideal for outdoor activities. One of these is Lynch Park, which features a beautiful rose garden that has been around for close to 100 years.

8. Cambridge, MA

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $3,775
• Average home value: $1,104,800
• Great for: Young professionals, students, schools, local attractions, art
• Commute into Boston: 25 minute drive

The city of Cambridge, Massachusetts, is situated across the river from Boston. It is in Middlesex County, and it is home to some of the area's top universities, such as MIT and Harvard.

Cambridge is one of the cities like Boston that has a highly skilled workforce and an abundant job market due to its top-tier schools. Several major industries, including healthcare, engineering, finance, law, and education, are active in the community.

Although it's often associated with Harvard University, the city also has plenty of other things to do. One of these is the Harvard Museum of Zoology, which features programs and exhibits that explore the world of zoology and dinosaurs. The Harvard Art Museums, which features three separate museums, also has programs that explore the world of art.

9. Norwood, MA

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,725
• Average home value: $692,300
• Great for: Young professionals, families, real estate, history, shopping, dining
• Commute into Boston: 40 minute drive

Situated southwest of Boston, the quaint community of Norwood is one of the most affordable cities near Boston which offers a tranquil suburban setting with a diverse array of activities, rich history, and thriving real estate market that make it an ideal place to call home.

The real estate market in Norwood is booming, with plenty of options for people looking to purchase a home or a modern apartment. The town's convenient location and shopping district make it an ideal choice for all types of lifestyles, and at Legacy Place, you'll find a variety of restaurants and shops to suit every taste.

The Historical Society of Norwood can help you explore the town's fascinating past by providing guided tours and exhibits. You can also try out the area's food scene by visiting the nearby Norwood Center, which features bakeries, cafes, and other popular restaurants.

Quincy was established in 1625, long before the American Revolution. More recently, it’s the birthplace of iconic Massachusetts business, Dunkin’ Donuts.

10. Quincy, MA

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,825
• Average home value: $651,500
• Great for: Families, retirees, rich history, outdoor recreation
• Commute into Boston: 30 minute drive

Before the American Revolution, the city of Quincy was established in 1625 by pilgrims who traveled to Massachusetts before it became a separate city in 1888. While it was initially a shipbuilding and granite hub, it has since evolved into a more diverse place best suited for those who prefer more of a suburban atmosphere.

Quincy has many outdoor recreation opportunities, and one of the most popular activities among residents is going to the beach when the weather is favorable. With close to 30 miles of coastline, there are many public beaches to choose from.

There are lots of coffee shops in the city of Quincy, which has contributed to the area's vibrant culture. In fact, Dunkin Donuts was even created here! Originally, the company was a tea establishment created by a man named William Rosenberg. You can still check out the original headquarters today in Canton.

11. Winthrop, MA

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $3,125
• Average home value: $669,100
• Great for: Families, retirees, local history, outdoor activities, golfing
• Commute into Boston: 20 minute drive

The vibrant seaside community of Winthrop is situated in Suffolk County, which is considered a prestigious city to settle down in. Winthrop is known for its vast historical artifacts, and there are even 5 spots on the National Register from the community!  The Deane Winthrop House is where the son of Governor Winthrop lived, and the residence is considered as one of the oldest lived-in residences which was first built in 1675.

Besides the historical artifacts, there are plenty of ways to get the most out of the outdoors while residing in Winthrop. Along with Winthrop Golf Club which is fantastic for the golf enthusiasts, Coughlin Park offers Winthrop residents with plenty of ways to stay active through taking walks and sports, which offers scenic views of the ocean nearby. For all shopping needs, the local Winthrop MarketPlace is the go-to for many residents!

Boston has the know-how to move you to one of the best cities near Boston.

PODS Can Help You Move to the Best Cities Near Boston

When you're ready to move to a new city near Boston, let PODS help you get there. They can deliver a portable moving container right to your doorstep, where you can pack and load it on your own time. PODS will pick up the container once you're ready and deliver it to your new home. If you need storage, you can get one month of it with every move!

Editor’s note: For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100.