Boston, Massachusetts offers plenty of vibrant neighborhoods, but many families find that suburban life provides the perfect balance of excellent schools, outdoor spaces, and a manageable commute to both Boston and Cambridge. Below, we highlight some of the best family-friendly suburbs near Boston, complete with essential commute times to both cities, helping you make the right choice for your family.
Whatever your commute needs, your Suburban Jungle Strategist will help you take a town-first approach to find the perfect fit!
1. Newton, MA
Why Newton is Great for Families
Newton is known for its excellent schools, wonderful neighborhoods, and a strong community vibe. It’s an ideal choice for families seeking a balance of urban amenities and suburban charm.
Commute to Boston
- Train: MBTA Green Line (D Line) to downtown Boston takes about 30-45 minutes. MBTA Commuter Rail (Framingham/Worcester Line) to South Station takes 25-30 minutes.
- Drive: Around 25 minutes via I-90.
Commute to Cambridge
- Train: MBTA Green Line to Red Line, transfer at Park Street, to Kendall/MIT takes about 45-60 minutes. MBTA Commuter Rail to South Station, then transfer to the Red Line; total time is about 40-45 minutes.
- Drive: Around 25 minutes via I-90.
Family-Friendly Highlights
- Highly rated schools like Newton South and Newton North.
- Outdoor spaces like Crystal Lake and the Newton Centre Playground.
- Thriving youth sports programs and recreational facilities.
Check out our blog post about living in Newton, MA.
2. Wellesley, MA
Why Wellesley is Great for Families
Wellesley offers a blend of suburban sophistication, top-rated schools, and charming downtown areas. It’s a favorite for families seeking excellent community resources and an easy commute.
Commute to Boston
- Train: MBTA Commuter Rail (Framingham/Worcester Line) to South Station takes 35-40 minutes.
- Drive: About 30 minutes via Route 9 or I-90.
Commute to Cambridge
- Train: MBTA Commuter Rail to South Station, then transfer to the Red Line; total time is about 50-55 minutes.
- Drive: Around 30 minutes via I-90.
Family-Friendly Highlights
- Top-rated schools, including Wellesley High School.
- Family-friendly spaces like Morses Pond and Elm Bank Reservation.
- A vibrant downtown with shops, restaurants, and community events like the annual Wellesley’s Wonderful Weekend.
Check out our blog post about living in Wellesley, MA.
3. Arlington, MA
Why Arlington is Great for Families
Arlington offers a tight-knit community with excellent schools and a bustling, walkable town center. Its proximity to both Boston and Cambridge makes it ideal for commuters.
Commute to Boston
- Train: MBTA Red Line from Alewife Station to downtown Boston takes about 20 minutes.
- Drive: About 20 minutes via I-93 S.
Commute to Cambridge
- Train: MBTA Red Line from Alewife Station to Kendall/MIT takes about 15 minutes.
- Drive: About 15 minutes via Route 2.
Family-Friendly Highlights
- Excellent schools like Arlington High School.
- Recreational spots like Robbins Farm Park and the Minuteman Bikeway.
- Family-focused community events throughout the year including the annual Town Day.
4. Winchester, MA
Why It’s Great for Families
Winchester is a picturesque suburb with top-rated schools, historic homes, and a strong community atmosphere.
Commute to Boston
- Train: MBTA Commuter Rail (Lowell Line) to North Station takes 18 minutes.
- Drive: Around 16 minutes via I-93 S.
Commute to Cambridge
- Train: MBTA Commuter Rail to North Station, then transfer to the Green Line, and then take the Red Line at Park Street; total time is about 45 minutes.
- Drive: Around 22 minutes via I-93 S.
- Train/Drive: Drive to Alewife Station (around 20 minutes) and take the Red Line to Kendall/MIT; total time is around 35 minutes.
Family-Friendly Highlights
- Top-rated schools like Winchester High School.
- Family destinations like Wright-Locke Farm and the Middlesex Fells Reservation.
- A charming downtown with boutique shops and cafes.
5. Milton, MA
Why It’s Great for Families
Milton offers a blend of suburban tranquility, excellent schools including a French Immersion program, and access to the beautiful Blue Hills Reservation.
Commute to Boston
- Train: MBTA Red Line via Mattapan Trolley to Downtown Crossing takes about 30 minutes.
- Drive: About 18 minutes via I-93 N.
Commute to Cambridge
- Train: MBTA Red Line via Mattapan Trolley to Kendall/MIT takes about 35-40 minutes.
- Drive: About 25 minutes via I-93 N.
Family-Friendly Highlights
- Highly rated schools like Milton High School.
- Hiking, biking and skiing at Blue Hills Reservation.
- Community-focused events like Milton Music Fest.
6. Hingham, MA
Why It’s Great for Families
Hingham combines coastal charm, top-rated schools, and abundant outdoor spaces, making it a great choice for families.
Commute to Boston
- Train/Ferry: MBTA Commuter Ferry (the boat) takes about 30-40 minutes to Rowes Wharf; MBTA Commuter Rail (Greenbush Line) takes about 42 minutes to South Station. Note: Weekday service for the ferry is year round.
- Drive: About 35 minutes via Route 3 N and I-93 N.
Commute to Cambridge
- Train/Ferry: MBTA Commuter Rail or Ferry (the boat) to South Station, then transfer to the Red Line to Kendall/MIT; total time is about 60 minutes. Note: Weekday service for the ferry is year round.
- Drive: About 40 minutes via Route 3 N and I-93 N.
Family-Friendly Highlights
- Top-rated schools like Hingham High School.
- Outdoor spaces like World’s End and Wompatuck State Park.
- Strong youth sports programs and recreational options.
7. Melrose, MA
Why It’s Great for Families
Melrose is a walkable, family-friendly suburb with strong schools and convenient access to both Boston and Cambridge.
Commute to Boston
- Train: MBTA Commuter Rail (Haverhill Line) to North Station takes 24-28 minutes. MBTA Orange Line from Oak Grove Station (just south of the Melrose border in Malden) to Downtown Crossing is about 20 minutes.
- Drive: About 20 minutes via I-93 S.
Commute to Cambridge
- Train: MBTA Commuter Rail to North Station, then transfer to the Green Line, and then take the Red Line at Park Street; total time is about 45-50 minutes.
- Drive: About 25 minutes via I-93 S.
- Train/Drive: Drive to Oak Grove Station (around 5 minutes) and take the Orange Line to Downtown Crossing (around 20 minutes) and then take the Red Line to Kendall/MIT (around 10 minutes); total time is around 40 minutes.
- Train/Drive (another option): Drive to Alewife Station (around 30 minutes) and take the Red Line to Kendall/MIT; total time is around 45 minutes.
Read about this client’s move to Melrose, MA.
For families working in Boston or Cambridge, these suburbs offer the perfect mix of top schools, great neighborhoods, and manageable commutes. Whether you prefer Wellesley’s sophisticated charm, Newton’s bustling community, or Hingham’s coastal beauty, there’s a suburb on this list that’s right for your family. Suburban Jungle will help you explore your options and start your next chapter in one of these fantastic communities!
Note: Commuting times are approximate and will be longer during peak times and local traffic conditions. Please check the MBTA website for any changes in service. Their Trip Planner tool is also helpful.
For more insights, visit SJ’s Boston suburbs section and the Boston blog page on our website.
Ready to find your perfect town with the ideal commute? Get in touch now to schedule a free initial strategy call today and discover the best commuting options Massachusetts offers.
