For years, we’ve explored the top places to live in Greater Boston, and now, our research has been featured in Boston Magazine!
To compile this data, we partnered with DataJoe, a research and publishing platform, to analyze 141 cities and towns within Massachusetts’ I-495 boundary. Using eight key factors—including housing, safety, mobility, healthcare, entertainment, community, education, and employment—each town received an overall score and ranking.
So, what truly makes a great place to live? For most, it’s about rising home values, safety, access to shops and restaurants, healthcare, strong schools, and a diverse, vibrant community. Whether you’re a young professional, growing family, or retiree, the ideal location depends on what matters most.
Top 15 Places to Live in Greater Boston (2025 Edition)
1. Cambridge
Median Home Price: $2,103,000 | Overall Score: 7.31
- Best For: Young professionals, families, and academics
- Why It’s a Top Pick: Vibrant city life, top schools, universal preschool, and an unbeatable dining scene.
2. Wellesley Median Home Price: $2,107,500 | Overall Score: 7.30
- Best For: Affluent families, commuters, and professionals
- Why It’s a Top Pick: A mix of historic homes, high-end shopping, and some of the best schools in Massachusetts.
3. Brookline Median Home Price: $2,369,022 | Overall Score: 7.16
- Best For: Families, city lovers, and healthcare professionals
- Why It’s a Top Pick: Easy access to Boston, top-rated schools, world-class hospitals, and a thriving restaurant scene.
4. Newton Median Home Price: $1,837,000 | Overall Score: 6.99
- Best For: Families and professionals
- Why It’s a Top Pick: A+ schools, a strong community, and ongoing city improvements make Newton a longtime favorite.
5. Somerville Median Home Price: $1,202,500 | Overall Score: 6.94
- Best For: Young professionals and city dwellers
- Why It’s a Top Pick: Trendy neighborhoods, public transit expansion, and a booming entertainment scene.
6. Needham Median Home Price: $1,702,500 | Overall Score: 6.90
- Best For: Families and suburban seekers
- Why It’s a Top Pick: Tight-knit community, great schools, and increasing home values.
7. Lexington Median Home Price: $1,728,000 | Overall Score: 6.84
- Best For: History buffs and families
- Why It’s a Top Pick: Strong education system, safe neighborhoods, and historic charm.
8. Medfield Median Home Price: $1,175,000 | Overall Score: 6.69
- Best For: Families and nature lovers
- Why It’s a Top Pick: Small-town feel, great schools, and strong property appreciation.
9. Weston Median Home Price: $2,325,000 | Overall Score: 6.62
- Best For: Luxury homebuyers and professionals
- Why It’s a Top Pick: Private estates, excellent schools, and a peaceful setting.
10. Arlington Median Home Price: $1,160,000 | Overall Score: 6.53
- Best For: Young families and professionals
- Why It’s a Top Pick: Urban convenience meets suburban charm with top schools and outdoor recreation.
11. Bedford Median Home Price: $1,062,500 | Overall Score: 6.50
- Best For: Commuters and families
- Why It’s a Top Pick: Affordable homes, a strong sense of community, and easy access to Boston.
12. Dover Median Home Price: $1,680,000 | Overall Score: 6.49
- Best For: Those seeking space and tranquility
- Why It’s a Top Pick: Expansive properties, top-rated schools, and a quiet atmosphere.
13. Belmont Median Home Price: $1,587,000 | Overall Score: 6.48
- Best For: Suburban professionals
- Why It’s a Top Pick: Great schools, a diverse community, and proximity to Cambridge and Boston.
14. Wayland Median Home Price: $1,115,000 | Overall Score: 6.47
- Best For: Families and nature lovers
- Why It’s a Top Pick: High safety ratings, strong school system, and scenic parks.
15. Andover Median Home Price: $1,050,000 | Overall Score: 6.45
- Best For: Families and professionals
- Why It’s a Top Pick: Historic charm, excellent schools, and strong community engagement.
How These Rankings Were Determined
We teamed up with DataJoe’s CityScore system, analyzing key factors such as:
Housing – Affordability, home values, and appreciation rates
Safety – Crime rates and overall security
Mobility – Public transit and commute times
Healthcare – Access to top hospitals and medical services
Entertainment – Dining, shopping, and cultural activities
Community – Diversity, engagement, and neighborhood feel
Education – School rankings and access to academic resources
Employment – Job opportunities and local economic strength
Each town was assigned an overall score based on these factors, allowing us to rank the top 15 places to live.
What’s the Best Place for You?
Of course, the “best” place depends on your lifestyle and priorities. Whether you’re drawn to Cambridge’s vibrant culture, Brookline’s unbeatable healthcare access, or Lexington’s top-tier schools, there’s a Greater Boston town that fits your needs.
Want to explore your next move? Contact Page Innis at Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty for expert guidance on buying or selling in these top-ranked communities! 
If you have questions or want more information about how these markets are performing, follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
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