Boston, known for its rich history, world-class universities, and vibrant cultural scene, is one of the most iconic cities in the U.S. From historic landmarks like the Freedom Trail to renowned museums, sporting events, and a bustling food scene, it’s easy to see why over 675,000 people call Boston home. If you’re considering living in the city, you’ll want to know that the median home sale price is $776,500, and the median sale price per square foot is $647.
However, if you’re looking for a quieter lifestyle just outside the city, we’ve got great options. We’ve rounded up a list of the 10 best Boston suburbs to consider living in, all within a reasonable distance from downtown. This way, you can enjoy easy access to Boston’s many attractions without committing to city life.
1. Brookline, MA
- Population: 63,000
- Median Home Price: $1,140,000
- Median Sale Price per Sq Ft: $741
- Distance from Boston: 5 miles
Things to Do:
Brookline offers parks like Larz Anderson Park with its city views and picnic spots. Visit the Coolidge Corner Theatre for indie films or explore the John F. Kennedy National Historic Site. Washington Square provides upscale shopping and dining.
Check out our blog post about Brookline.
2. Newton, MA
- Population: 88,000
- Median Home Price: $1,380,000
- Median Sale Price per Sq Ft: $565
- Distance from Boston: 10 miles
Things to Do:
Newton is known for its scenic parks like Crystal Lake and Hemlock Gorge. You can shop and dine at The Street at Chestnut Hill or enjoy the vibrant local eateries in Newton Centre. The Newton Free Library is a community favorite.
Check out our blog post about Newton.
3. Arlington, MA
- Population: 46,000
- Median Home Price: $900,000
- Median Sale Price per Sq Ft: $546
- Distance from Boston: 8 miles
Things to Do:
Arlington offers the Minuteman Bikeway for cycling and walking, as well as scenic views of Spy Pond. Arlington Reservoir is great for summer swimming. The town also has historical landmarks like the Jason Russell House.
4. Wellesley, MA
- Population: 29,000
- Median Home Price: $1,837,500
- Median Sale Price per Sq Ft: $690
- Distance from Boston: 16 miles
Things to Do:
Wellesley offers a charming mix of outdoor activities with beautiful parks, scenic walking trails, and a vibrant town center perfect for shopping and dining. Explore the beautiful Wellesley College campus and its renowned Botanic Gardens and Lake Waban, perfect for a peaceful walk or a nature-filled afternoon. Morses Pond is also a local favorite spot for swimming and picnicking.
Check out our blog post about Wellesley.
5. Winchester, MA
- Population: 23,000
- Median Home Price: $1,082,000
- Median Sale Price per Sq Ft: $558
- Distance from Boston: 9 miles
Things to Do:
Winchester is great for outdoor lovers with Middlesex Fells Reservation for hiking and Horn Pond for picnics. The Griffin Museum of Photography offers a cultural experience, and Winchester Town Common is a popular spot for community events.
6. Lexington, MA
- Population: 34,000
- Median Home Price: $1,500,000
- Median Sale Price per Sq Ft: $552
- Distance from Boston: 13 miles
Things to Do:
Lexington is full of historical charm, especially with the Lexington Battle Green where the first shots of the American Revolution were fired. The Minuteman Bikeway is a great place for biking. Wilson Farm is perfect for fresh produce and seasonal events.
7. Milton, MA
- Population: 28,000
- Median Home Price: $1,050,000
- Median Sale Price per Sq Ft: $525
- Distance from Boston: 10 miles
Things to Do:
Milton’s Blue Hills Reservation offers outdoor activities like hiking and skiing, while Houghton’s Pond is a favorite for summer swimming. You can also explore the Eustis Estate for a glimpse into historical architecture.
8. Needham, MA
- Population: 32,000
- Median Home Price: $1,627,500
- Median Sale Price per Sq Ft: $562
- Distance from Boston: 19 miles
Things to Do:
Needham offers outdoor recreation at Cutler Park Reservation and Charles River Peninsula for walking and nature watching. Needham Town Common hosts community events, and Volante Farms is a favorite spot for fresh produce, ice cream, and family-friendly activities.
9. Belmont, MA
- Population: 26,000
- Median Home Price: $1,251,500
- Median Sale Price per Sq Ft: $586
- Distance from Boston: 9 miles
Things to Do:
Belmont offers nature at Rock Meadow Conservation Area and Beaver Brook Reservation. The town center has local shops and cafes, and nearby Mass Audubon’s Habitat Education Center & Wildlife Sanctuary offers nature programs and scenic walks.
10. Hingham, MA
- Population: 24,000
- Median Home Price: $1,675,000
- Median Sale Price per Sq Ft: $550
- Distance from Boston: 23 miles
Things to Do:
Hingham is a coastal gem with scenic spots like World’s End, perfect for hiking and picnics with ocean views. The Hingham Shipyard offers waterfront dining and shopping. Wompatuck State Park is ideal for camping, hiking, and biking, while Hingham Harbor provides opportunities for boating and kayaking.
These Boston suburbs offer a wide range of activities, strong communities, and convenient access to the city. Whether you’re looking for historical charm, coastal beauty, or outdoor adventure, these towns provide great options for living near Boston, Massachusetts.
Note: Sales data is based on sales in September 2024.
For more insights, visit SJ’s Boston suburbs section and the Boston blog page on our website.
