Whether you're looking to buy your first home, rightsize in retirement, or upgrade to a spacious retreat, the best suburbs in Boston offer a range of housing options to suit every lifestyle and budget. If choosing among the city’s plethora of neighborhoods overwhelms you, fear not. In this blog, we share some of the best suburbs of Boston, MA, plus neighborhoods where Boston home builders can help turn your vision for a new home into a reality. With picturesque landscapes and thriving communities, these suburbs are the perfect blend of tranquility and accessibility, making them some of the best places to live outside of Boston.

Summary:

• Why Choose Boston Suburbs for Your New Home
• Best Boston Suburbs to Buy a House
• Which Boston Suburb Is Right for You
• New Build Homes in Boston Suburbs
• Boston Suburbs Conclusion

Why Choose Boston Suburbs for Your New Home

Discover the allure of the best suburbs in Boston, where the charm of New England meets modern convenience. Boston, known for its rich history and diverse neighborhoods, offers many lovely places to call home. Each neighborhood in the Greater Boston area has its own unique character and appeal, and there’s a suburb to suit virtually any lifestyle. Suburbs close to Boston are often more affordable than living directly in the city center, offering residents a chance to enjoy the amenities of urban living without the high price tag.

Best Boston Suburbs to Buy a House

Woburn

Situated about 12 miles north of the city, Woburn stands out as one of the best suburbs near Boston. Its convenient access to the city center makes it one of the best Boston suburbs for commuting, and it has become a popular place to call home.
Pros

• Proximity to Boston: Regarded as one of the best Boston suburbs for young professionals, with easy access to Boston for work or leisure activities
• Diverse dining options: Boasts a variety of restaurants and eateries
• Recreational opportunities: Several parks, trails, and recreational facilities for ample outdoor activities
• Strong sense of community: A welcoming and tight-knit community with an abundance of local events

Cons

• Limited nightlife: Several dining options nearby, but quieter nightlife scene compared to other areas
• Highway noise: Higher levels of noise pollution due to location near major highways, depending on the neighborhood
• Higher population density: Greater local activity due to more people calling Woburn home
• Traffic congestion: Potential for gridlock and longer commute times, particularly during rush hour
• Limited green space: Fewer parks, trails, and recreational facilities than some residents may desire, especially those who prioritize being outdoors for recreation and relaxation

Westborough

Westborough offers residents some of the best neighborhoods in Boston. It’s a suburban oasis with quality schools, picturesque surroundings, and several large employers. Locals find there are many advantages to calling this MetroWest suburb home.
Pros

• Quality schools: Highly rated school district ranked in the top 10%, according to Public School Review in 2024
• Convenient location: Situated near major highways like I-90 and I-495, with easy access to Boston, Framingham, Worcester, and other nearby cities
• Vibrant community: Numerous local events, recreational activities, and community organizations
• Abundant green spaces: Beautiful parks, trails, and conservation areas for outdoor recreation and relaxation
• Diverse dining and shopping options: A wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and stores that cater to many tastes and preferences

Cons

• Distance from Boston: Farther from major urban centers like Boston than other suburbs, resulting in potentially longer commute times
• Limited local entertainment: Fewer local entertainment options than suburbs closer to the city
• Higher home prices: Higher cost of living compared to some other suburbs, particularly for housing prices
• Car-dependent: Greater reliance on cars for daily errands and activities

Grafton

Situated in Worcester County, Grafton is one of the cool neighborhoods in Boston, as it boasts a rich past dating back to colonial times. With its preserved historic architecture, scenic parks, and strong community ties, Grafton offers residents a serene and inviting atmosphere and is one of the best neighborhoods in Boston to buy a house.
Pros

• Rich history: Home to many well-preserved historic buildings and landmarks, offering a unique opportunity to explore the town's rich colonial heritage and architectural charm
• Scenic natural beauty: Boasts picturesque landscapes, including wooded areas, rivers, and rolling hills, with options for hiking, fishing, and nature walks
• Community events and festivals: Hosts local events throughout the year, fostering a strong sense of community and opportunities to celebrate local culture and traditions
• Proximity to attractions: Convenient drive to larger cities like Worcester for cultural points of interest, museums, and theaters
• Access to public transportation: Offers Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) Commuter Rail station for an alternate commuting option to nearby cities

Cons

• Rural setting: May not suit those accustomed to a quieter lifestyle and the amenities and conveniences of urban living
• Limited entertainment and cultural amenities: Fewer recreational amenities, such as museums, theaters, or art galleries, than larger cities
• Potential for longer commutes: Extended commute times to areas not served by the rail system due to traffic congestion on nearby highways
• Limited shopping options: Local shops and businesses in the area, but fewer big box stores compared to larger towns or cities nearby
• Limited dining options: Fewer restaurants and eateries than more urban areas

Sudbury

Sudbury is one of the best suburbs in Boston for families. Known for quality schools, a dynamic community, and gorgeous green spaces, Sudbury offers residents with a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere about 23 miles from the city.
Pros

• Historic charm: Well-preserved historic sites, including the Wayside Inn, one of the oldest operating inns in the country, and appreciation for the town's unique history and cultural heritage
• Natural beauty: Scenic landscapes with numerous parks, trails, and conservation areas for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and exploring nature year-round
• Fresh, locally sourced produce: Access to locally grown vegetables from nearby farmlands and farmers markets
• High academic standards: School district in the state’s top 10% per Public School Review as of 2024

Cons

• High cost of living: Relatively high cost of living compared to other areas in Massachusetts, including expensive housing prices, property taxes, and overall living expenses
• Limited entertainment and nightlife: Quiet, laid-back atmosphere, a potential drawback for those who prefer a livelier urban lifestyle with more entertainment and nightlife options
• Distance to major highways: Potential for longer commute times due to being farther away from major highways Older homes: Average build year of 1965 for resale homes, per Massachusetts MLS in February 2024, possibly requiring maintenance and renovation or lacking energy-efficiency features in newer construction, leading to higher utility bills
• Limited public transportation options: Heavier reliance on personal transportation for commuting and running errands

Norton

Norton, an enchanting city on the South Shore of Massachusetts, is also among the good suburbs of Boston and a prime destination for new homebuyers seeking an ideal blend of tranquility and modern living. Discover why Norton has become one of the best places to live outside of Boston.
Pros

• Rural charm: Offers a serene setting with picturesque landscapes, including farmlands, forests, and parks
• Outdoor recreation: Numerous outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking trails, fishing spots, and parks, with plenty of options for staying active and enjoying nature
• Quick access to I-495: Convenient access to nearby cities and towns, enhancing connectivity for commuters
• Proximity to amenities: Close to essential amenities like grocery stores, medical facilities, and restaurants, offering convenience without sacrificing tranquility
• Historic heritage: Several historical landmarks and sites that enhance the town's character and honor its past

Cons

• Limited public transportation: Greater reliance on personal vehicles for commuting and getting around
• Limited dining and shopping: Fewer dining and shopping options than in larger cities or towns, requiring travel to nearby areas for more variety
• Distance from major cities: Farther away from major cities like Boston and Providence, potentially limiting access to cultural events and amenities found in urban areas
• Limited healthcare facilities: Could necessitate travel to larger cities for specialized healthcare services
• Less proximity to major employers: Fewer large businesses nearby, potentially leading to longer commutes for work

Which Boston Suburb Is Right for You

Choosing the best neighborhood to live in Boston involves considering several factors, such as your proximity to work, local amenities, and lifestyle preferences. Whether you prioritize education, social community events, abundant green spaces, or easy access to urban attractions, there's a suburb that fits your needs and preferences.

Best Boston Suburbs for Commuting

• Woburn: With some of the best neighborhoods in Boston for young professionals, Woburn offers a diverse community, multiple MBTA Commuter Rail stations, and easy access to major highways such as I-93 and I-95/Route 128. Find your new home at Highland at Vale, a Pulte Homes® community with single-level condos and spacious two-story attached townhomes.
  
  
  
• Newton: Newton is known for its quality schools, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to Boston via commuter rail and major highways, such as the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) and Route 9.
  
  
  
• Marlborough: Marlborough, situated in Middlesex County, offers easy access to I-495, a major roadway spanning the region from north to south, making it an advantageous location for commuters.

Best Suburbs of Boston for Families

• Lexington: Lexington has historic charm, a friendly community, and a school district ranked in the state’s top 5%, per Public School Review in 2024.
  
  
  
• Hopkinton: This town boasts a friendly environment with well-maintained neighborhoods, parks, and recreational facilities. It also has a school district ranked in the top 5%, according to Public School Review as of 2024.
  
  
  
• Concord: Home to quality public schools and some of the best neighborhoods in Boston for families, Concord also offers convenient access to major highways like I-95 and I-495 for commuters. Explore spacious single-family and attached homes in this suburb at Rookery Lane at Concord by Pulte.

Boston Suburbs for the Active Outdoor Enthusiast

• Wellesley: With an extensive network of parks, trails, and recreational facilities, Wellesley is an ideal suburb for outdoor enthusiasts.
  
  
  
• North Reading: One of the best suburbs in Boston for lovers of the outdoors, North Reading offers opportunities to explore nature at Harold Parker State Forest, where hiking, biking, and camping are popular. You’ll also find tranquil settings at the Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, perfect for activities like bird-watching and kayaking in diverse habitats. For the active adults nearing retirement, Martins Landing by Pulte Homes has modern single-level condominiums with elevator access in this popular suburb.
  
  
  
• Brookline: Despite its proximity to Boston, Brookline offers residents plenty of outdoor recreational options in scenic areas like Larz Anderson Park and Brookline Reservoir Park, where outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy walking, jogging, picnicking, and bird-watching.

New Build Homes in Boston Suburbs

• North Reading: Martins Landing
• Woburn: Highland at Vale
• Westborough: Chauncy Lake
• Grafton: Woodland Hill
• Grafton: Winslow Point
• Concord: Rookery Lane at Concord
• Norton: Wheelock Farm

Boston Suburbs Conclusion

When it comes to the state’s best neighborhoods, Boston, MA, has a wonderful range of places to call home. The best suburbs in Boston offer residents a quieter and more spacious environment compared to the bustling city center, alongside ample green spaces, peaceful neighborhoods, and a slower pace of life.

When choosing where to live in the Boston suburbs, consider factors like proximity to work, school quality, access to amenities, and the overall lifestyle and atmosphere that best aligns with your needs.

Let the expertise of Boston homebuilders guide you in making your dream home a reality within these best suburbs near Boston.

Explore new construction homes in Boston, Massachusetts, today or browse more Pulte blogs.

Written By: Emily Johnson, New England native, former Boston resident, and Director of Marketing of Pulte Homes New England Division