One of the best aspects of city living is walkability, but moving to the suburbs doesn’t mean you have to give that up. Choosing the right suburb for raising a family involves balancing factors such as excellent schools, safety, community amenities, and convenience. A walkable downtown area often emerges as a crucial feature for many families, providing easy access to local shops, parks, restaurants, and services. If you are considering a move to the Boston suburbs, here’s a guide to ten family-friendly suburbs with vibrant, walkable downtowns to help you find the perfect community.
1. Brookline, MA: Historic Charm with Modern Amenities
Brookline stands out as a highly desirable suburb with a blend of historic charm and modern conveniences. Its most walkable areas, including Coolidge Corner (Walk Score of 97), Brookline Village (Walk Score of 94), and Washington Square (Walk Score of 89), feature a range of local shops, cafes, and restaurants. The town also offers top-rated public schools and beautiful green spaces like Larz Anderson Park and the Brookline Reservoir, making it an ideal spot for families who value both convenience and quality of life. Check out the SJ blog post on Brookline!
Favorite eateries: Bottega di Capri, Brothers & Sisters Co., Far Out Ice Cream, FuGaKyu, Otto, Prairie Fire, Stoked Wood Fired Pizza Co., The Abbey, The Washington Square Tavern
2. Newton, MA: A Network of Walkable Villages
Newton is unique for its structure as a city of 13 distinct villages, each with its own walkable downtown area. The most walkable villages such as Newton Centre (Walk Score of 86), Newtonville (Walk Score of 81), and Nonantum (Walk Score of 80) are bustling with a variety of local shops, dining options, and essential services, allowing residents to easily access amenities and engage with the community. Located just outside of the village center, the Newton Centre Playground is always a hit. The city is also renowned for its excellent public schools and numerous recreational facilities, making it a great choice for families seeking a close-knit community. Check out the SJ blog post on Newton and read about this client’s move from Cambridge!
Favorite eateries: Blue Salt, Cabot’s Ice Cream, Grandma Kitchen, Pátzcuaro Taqueria & Bar, Rancatore’s Ice Cream, Stella, Sycamore, Ward 4
3. Needham, MA: Community-Centric and Convenient
Needham is celebrated for its strong sense of community and family-friendly atmosphere. The town’s walkable downtown area along Great Plain Avenue offers a variety of local shops, restaurants, and services, supported by a Walk Score of 92. Located steps away from Needham Center is Greene’s Field, a great park option for kids of all ages. Needham’s excellent public schools and active community programs, including sports leagues and cultural events, contribute to its appeal. The town’s blend of convenience and community spirit makes it an attractive option for families looking for a supportive suburban environment.
Favorite eateries: Cappella, Sweet Basil, The Common Room, The Farmhouse, The James, Volante Farms
4. Wellesley, MA: Upscale Living with Easy Access
Wellesley combines upscale living with a family-oriented atmosphere. Central Street, the hub of Wellesley’s downtown, is lined with high-end boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and cozy cafes, all within walking distance. With a Walk Score of 91, Wellesley ensures that residents have easy access to local amenities. The town is also known for its top-rated public schools and well-maintained parks like the Brook Path, making it an excellent choice for families seeking a mix of sophistication and convenience. Check out the SJ blog post on Wellesley and read about a local artist!
Favorite eateries: Cafe Mangal, Cocobeet, Dryft, Juniper, La Toscana’s, Lockheart, The Linden Store Deli, Truly’s
5. Concord, MA: Historic Beauty Meets Modern Convenience
Concord, renowned for its historic significance, also offers a family-friendly environment with a walkable downtown area. The town center features a blend of historic sites, local shops, and dining options, supported by a Walk Score of 74. Concord’s highly rated public schools and numerous parks, including the iconic Walden Pond, add to its appeal. Families can enjoy a combination of historical charm and modern amenities in this picturesque setting.
Favorite eateries: Bedford Farms, 80 Thoreau, Haute Coffee, Nashoba Brook Bakery, Twin Seafood, Woods Hill Table
6. Arlington, MA: Rich History and Strong Community
Arlington offers a rich historical background combined with a family-friendly atmosphere. The walkable downtown area along Massachusetts Avenue includes family-owned shops, cafes, and essential services, supported by a Walk Score of 92. Arlington’s well-regarded public schools, active community programs, and recreation areas, such as the Minuteman Bikeway, provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities and community engagement. The town’s blend of historical significance and modern convenience makes it an appealing choice for families.
Favorite eateries: Acitron, Fattoush, Gail Anns Coffee Shop, Kickstand Cafe, Scutra, The Scoop N Scootery, Town Tavern, Trattoria Nina, Za Arlington
7. Winchester, MA: Classic New England Charm
Winchester provides a quintessential New England experience with its charming walkable downtown area centered around Winchester Common. The downtown area, with a Walk Score of 91, features local shops, cafes, and restaurants that cater to families. Winchester’s excellent public schools and beautiful green spaces, such as Middlesex Fells Reservation, further enhance its appeal. The combination of historic charm and modern amenities makes Winchester a desirable location for families seeking a classic suburban setting. Read this blog post about a great local chef!
Favorite eateries: Andrea’s Pizza, A Tavola, D’agostino’s Deli, Gingerbread Construction Company
8. Lexington, MA: A Blend of History and Modern Living
Lexington is known for its historic significance and commitment to family-friendly living. The town’s walkable downtown area includes historic sites like the Battle Green and the Lexington Historical Society, alongside local shops and dining options. With a Walk Score of 84, Lexington offers convenient access to essential amenities while maintaining its historic charm. Lincoln Park is a popular playground spot and the fields are always busy with activities. The town’s highly rated public schools and recreational facilities make it an excellent choice for families who appreciate both history and modern conveniences.
Favorite eateries: Avenue Deli, Mario’s Italian Restaurant, Rancatore’s Ice Cream, Royal India Bistro, Town Meeting Bistro
9. Melrose, MA: A Community Gem with Strong Local Ties
The city of Melrose is often a sought after community among Boston suburbs, offering a walkable downtown area with a strong sense of community. Main Street, the center of Melrose’s downtown, features a variety of local shops, cafes, and family-friendly restaurants, supported by a Walk Score of 94. The town’s excellent schools and active community programs, including sports leagues and family events, contribute to its appeal. Experience nature at its best at Middlesex Fells Reservation with its many trails and recreation areas. Melrose’s welcoming atmosphere and convenient amenities make it a supportive and engaging environment for families. Read about this client’s move from NYC!
Favorite eateries: Bobby C’s, Jitters, Mexico Lindo, Mother’s Pizza, My Diner, Ocean Sushi, Sushi Corner, The Bangkok, Turners
10. Hingham, MA: Coastal Beauty and Family-Friendly Living
Hingham, located on the South Shore, combines coastal charm with family-oriented amenities. The town’s walkable downtown area features historic buildings, local shops, and family-friendly restaurants, many within walking distance of Hingham Harbor. With a Walk Score of 75, Hingham offers a balance of scenic beauty and practical convenience. For nature lovers, Hingham’s World’s End enjoys beautiful vistas and well maintained walking paths, so stunning in fact, that it has been mentioned in The New York Times and featured in an article in Boston.com. The town’s top-rated public schools and variety of parks and recreational activities enhance its appeal for families who enjoy both coastal living and modern amenities.
Favorite eateries: Alma Nove, Brewed Awakenings, Nona’s Homemade, Square Cafe, The Bloomy Rind, The Snug, Tosca
When searching for a family-friendly Boston suburb with a walkable downtown, each of these ten communities—Brookline, Newton, Needham, Wellesley, Concord, Arlington, Winchester, Lexington, Melrose, and Hingham—offers unique features and amenities. Their high Walk Scores and strong community amenities make them ideal places to live while enjoying the benefits of suburban living.
As you explore your options, consider the aspects of walkable living that are most important to your family and how each suburb’s characteristics align with your lifestyle needs. Whether you prioritize historic charm, upscale living, or a strong sense of community, these suburbs provide a variety of appealing choices for families seeking a vibrant, accessible place to call home.
For more insights, visit SJ’s Boston blog page and the Boston Featured Market section on our website.
Also check out this blog post for some of the best Boston suburbs for families with quick commutes to Boston and Cambridge.
Ready to find the perfect walkable suburb? We’re here to help! Schedule your free Suburbs Strategy session now.
