While some people love to live in the heart of a city, others are willing to trade walkability and a short commute for extra space and more affordable housing. Luckily, these things are easy to find in many small towns outside the city limits. Indeed, those tempted to move outside Boston while staying within travel distance of the city’s myriad amenities might want to consider some of the best small towns near Boston. Unsurprisingly, each has a population below 25,000 – some far below that threshold – and they may just be your new home. Before planting yourself somewhere new, remember to check out the unexpected options. For this reason, we’ve gathered some of our favorites. Once you’ve enjoyed these, consider checking out these other small towns outside Boston scattered throughout Massachusetts.

1. Essex, Essex County
Essex, MA, USA
Flickr/Tim Bouwer
Flickr/Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism
Antiques, clams, and water views are just a few of the benefits to living in the gorgeous little town of Essex. In addition to the 3,504 people who already call this spot home benefiting from crime rates that are 75% lower than the Massachusetts average, AreaVibes also awards the town a livability rating of 75 out of 100. Of course, the rural areas near Boston are great, but that doesn't mean the spots closer can't provide the same charm.
2. Amesbury, Essex County
Amesbury, MA, USA
Wikimedia Commons/John Phelan
Flickr/Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism
Truly, one of the best small towns outside of Boston is Amesbury. Located just 40 miles outside of Boston, this beauty offers a cost of living that is 3% lower than the state average. In addition to appealing Federal and Victorian architecture, Amesbury has enticing restaurants, a microbrewery, and a popular sports park. A visit here may tempt you to join the town’s 16,283 residents. Especially when you consider just how close it is to so many other beautiful towns.
3. Hull, Plymouth County
Hull, MA, USA
Images by Lane
Wikimedia Commons/Daderot
Although the population of this peninsula town is home to 10,293 residents, per the last census, the feel is much smaller than you'd imagine. Visitors and locals alike take advantage of beautiful Nantasket Beach, seaside restaurants, and the laid-back, artsy lifestyle found here. Surely, Hull is worth exploring!
4. Hudson, Middlesex County
Hudson, MA, USA
Wikimedia Commons/John Phelan
Facebook/Amaia Martini Bar
This architecturally stunning town is located in one of the most lovely rural areas near Boston. Situated just 32 miles west of the city, Hudson was once known for its shoe factories. Fortunately, the benefits of living here include affordable housing – 15% below the state average – a rural setting, and far more amenities than you’d typically associate with a population of 19,063. While you might expect a retro-style diner, a creamery and stores selling handmade goods, the martini bar serving up decadent drinks like this "smortini" is sure to be a surprise!
5. Duxbury, Plymouth County
Duxbury, MA, USA
Wikimedia Commons/John Phelan

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Flickr/Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism
With an AreaVibes livability rating of 73 out of 100, there’s much to recommend in Duxbury, which is located 34 miles south of Boston. For example, crime rates hover 65% lower than the Massachusetts average. Plus, there's Duxbury Beach Park and plenty of historic houses. Consequently, life is pretty sweet in this town of 15,059 people. Fun fact: the oyster farm for Island Creek Oyster Bar is located in Duxbury Bay! If you choose to visit consider checking out this haunted tavern located in town.
6. Swampscott, Essex County
Swampscott, MA, USA
Flickr/Mr.TinDC
Flickr/massmatt
Because it’s only 12 miles from Boston and sits on the commuter rail line, this North Shore town provides residents with the ideal balance of beach and city access. Swampscott is brimming with charm – Monument Square was designed by Frederick Law Olmstead – and it has produced a surprising number of household names given that the town’s population is only 13,787. Christian Science founder Mary Baker Eddy, Governor Charlie Baker, singer David Lee Roth, and author Michael Palmer all lived here. Indeed, this is truly one of the best small towns near Boston.
7. Dover, Norfolk County
Dover, MA 02030, USA
Flickr/Paul Geffen
Flickr/Mike Halsall
A scant 5,589 people call Dover home. Situated about 17 miles, southwest of Boston, this town provides residents with rural living without sacrificing proximity to amenities in the city and in nearby Natick, Wellesley, and Needham. Dover itself has excellent public schools and the lovely Noanet Woodlands. With this in mind, you'd be wise to put this spot on your list. Just watch out for the Dover Demon!
8. Winthrop, Suffolk County
Winthrop, MA, USA
Flickr/Bill Ilott
Wikimedia Commons/Sean 2015
Despite people often overlooking the appeal of historic Winthrop, the coastal town is a must-visit. Admittedly, it’s densely populated with 17,497 people calling it home; however, there are many advantages to Winthrop. For example, it’s almost in Boston proper, has the natural oases of Belle Isle Marsh Reservation and Deer Island, and several beaches and forts to explore. Plus, AreaVibes awards it 71 out of 100 for livability.
9. Groton, Middlesex County
Groton, MA, USA
Facebook/Gibbet Hill Grill
Wikimedia Commons/Michael A. White
If you’re a fan of farm-fresh food and hiking (there are 100 miles of trails here!), then Groton may be for you. You’ll find this town of just under 11,000 people located 44 miles outside of Boston. Unsurprisingly, with its low crime rate and scenic setting, Groton scores 75 out of 100 on AreaVibe’s livability scale. For this reason, we highly recommend considering it as your new home.

Of course, there are plenty of great towns to choose from here in Massachusetts. Nonetheless, we often become overwhelmed when it’s time to make a decision. Fortunately, we know some of you must have favorites! For this reason, we defer to you for help recommending which to visit. Leave your thoughts in the comments! And, because we love sharing more about these local small towns, we may just feature your recommendations in an upcoming article.

If you want a brief – rather than permanent – escape from urban life, consider taking one of the 11 best day trips you can possibly take from Boston. Alternatively, it’s always fun to simply hop in the car for your own explorations.

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More to Explore

Great Towns in Massachusetts

Michelle S. | September 08, 2022

What is the oldest town in Massachusetts?

Unsurprisingly, the oldest town in Massachusetts is Plymouth. While it was the Wampanoag Native people who lived in the town first, it was settled in 1620 by Pilgrims who traveled on the Mayflower. Although the Wampanoag laid claim to the land, visiting today offers a glimpse into life in the mid-1600s. Of course, being the oldest town in the state is exciting, but there's so much more to a visit. Be sure to check out the stunning waterfront and the many local shops and restaurants that dot the shoreline.

What are the most charming small towns in Massachusetts?

Although Massachusetts is full of charming small towns, quite a few local natives consider North Adams one of the best to visit. Unsurprisingly for a mill town, it sits right on the banks of the Hoosic River. In addition to the local shops, bars, restaurants, and parks the town is perhaps best known for being home to MASS MoCA. Other charming small towns include the North Shore's Gloucester and Newburyport.

What are the friendliest towns in Massachusetts?

Without a doubt, those who grew up in Massachusetts will have a hard time naming just one friendly city here in Massachusetts. Many people consider Provincetown, with its accepting vibe and smiling faces, to be at the top of the list. Of course, some of the smallest towns in the state are also the most welcoming. On that list, we'd include spots like Deerfield, Hadley, and Stow. These places are slightly off-the-beaten-path and downright delightful.

 

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