Raise your hand if that title made the “Cheers” theme song start playing in your head. We here in Massachusetts know a thing or two about warmth and hospitality (those stereotypes about New England coolness are only true about the weather), and we certainly have plenty of towns where neighbors still take an interest in your life. Check out these awesome spots across the state where there’s a friendly face around every corner.
1. Maynard
The population here just breaks the 10k mark, but you wouldn't know it by walking around downtown. A safe, quiet and charming community, Maynard is the perfect place to visit or settle down.
2. Rowe
This place is teeny – only about 400 people live here year-round. You'll definitely get to know your neighbors as you splash around Pelham Lake and take in the beautiful natural scenery.
3. Lenox
Most people know Lenox as the site of Tanglewood, but this town is actually only home to about 5k permanent residents, when you subtract all the eager visitors. Spend a while in Lenox, and soon you'll be seeing familiar faces everywhere.
4. Edgartown
It's hard not to bump into friends when you live on an island. Located on Martha's Vineyard, Edgartown's population swells considerably during the summer months, but the spring and autumn are quieter periods where the tiny population can really be appreciated.
The Edgartown lighthouse is a local landmark that is definitely postcard-worthy.
5. Cohasset
With about 7.5k people and plenty of green space to run about, Cohasset is a picture-perfect New England town. This place was actually discovered by Captain John Smith's crew in 1614, and its residents are rightfully proud of their roots.
6. Longmeadow
At 15k people, Longmeadow is definitely one of the larger towns on this list. However, with an active community, a strong school system and plenty of opportunities to socialize downtown, this charming spot is definitely a place where you're likely to meet an old friend on the street.
7. Dover
This town is ideal if you want a cozy New England vibe coupled with plenty of outdoor stuff to do with your friends. With only 5k residents, you're bound to meet some likeminded folk who also appreciate the beauty of this town.
8. Sunderland
Home to the (almost) world-famous Buttonball Tree, Sunderland has plenty of charm and beauty to share between its 3k residents. This sleepy town has a good mix of natural space and local activities.
9. Hadley
This place is so charming, that the World Monuments Fund actually recognizes the "cultural landscape of Hadley, Massachusetts" as one of the world's most valuable. It's 5k residents definitely agree.
10. Gosnold
With a population of 75, you really can't avoid knowing learning your neighbors' names in Gosnold. The town currently has only four students attending school in Cuttyhunk, while the rest (not many) attend class on the mainland.
11. Chesterfield
This town is actually one of the safest places to live in Massachusetts, according to NeighborhoodScout.com. There are only 1.2k people living here, which definitely helps to keep the crime rate low.
12. Princeton
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This town is one of the top-rated skiing destinations in the state, but it also is known for its population of friendly people. The parks are gorgeous, the slopes are world-class, and the view of Wachusett Mountain cannot be beat.
Which towns did we leave out? If you need convincing that small towns in this state are amazing, check out these 14 reasons why people from small town Massachusetts are the absolute best.
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