From the changing seasons to the unique accents and local slang, you may be wondering what makes living in Massachusetts so great. Whether you’re looking at Boston or Western Mass, let’s take a closer look at the culture, food, sports teams and more to see if living in Massachusetts is right for you.
Why Consider Living in Massachusetts?
Beautiful Landscapes
Massachusetts offers some of the most stunning natural scenery in the U.S. From the Berkshires to Cape Cod, you’ll find emerald forests, sandy beaches and picturesque mountain vistas. If you enjoy the outdoors, the recreational opportunities are endless.
Rich History
As one of the first colonies, Massachusetts is steeped in history. Walk the Freedom Trail in Boston, explore Plymouth Rock or visit Concord where the American Revolution began. The state is home to many well-preserved historical sites that provide a glimpse into the earliest days of the nation.
Excellent Schools
Massachusetts has a top-ranked public education system and is home to many prestigious colleges like Harvard and MIT. The schools here are consistently rated among the best in the U.S. If education is a priority, the Bay State is an ideal place to raise a family.
Distinct Seasons
Experience the full spectrum of seasons in Massachusetts. Summers are mild and winters snowy, with spectacular fall foliage and spring blooms in between. The changing weather keeps things interesting and allows for diverse activities all year round.
The Pros and Cons of Living in Massachusetts
Living in Massachusetts has its perks. The natural scenery is stunning, especially in the fall when the leaves change colors. There are also tons of outdoor activities to enjoy like hiking, biking and swimming at some of the best beaches on the East Coast.
Another pro is the amazing food scene. You’ll find everything from delicious seafood to authentic Italian cuisine. And who can forget about coffee and donuts? No wonder Massachusetts ranks as one of the top foodie destinations in the U.S.
However, Massachusetts living isn’t for everyone. The winters are long and potentially brutal, with lots of snow and freezing temperatures. The cost of living is also notoriously high, especially for housing and utilities.
The job market can also be competitive depending on your industry. While there are many opportunities in healthcare, tech and finance, it can be more difficult to find work in other fields. Traffic and congestion are problematic, too, especially around Boston. Commuting times can be tedious.
At the end of the day, living in Massachusetts comes down to your priorities and preferences. If natural beauty, culture, food and an active lifestyle matter most, Massachusetts could be an ideal place to call home. But if affordability, warmth and lack of traffic are higher on your list you may want to consider other options.
What to Know Before Moving to Massachusetts
The Weather Can Be Extreme
Massachusetts has a humid continental climate with very cold, snowy winters and warm, rainy summers. Winters in the western part of the state see average highs around 38 F, while summer highs average around 82 F. Be prepared for temperatures to fluctuate, sometimes dramatically, within a short period of time. Stock up on warm clothes, boots, jackets and preparedness supplies if you plan on living here.
The Cost of Living is High
Massachusetts has a high cost of living, especially when it comes to housing. Rent and home prices are well above the national average. The good news is that incomes also tend to be higher in the state.
The Culture is Distinctly Northeastern
Massachusetts culture is influenced by its long history and New England roots. People tend to be forward-thinking, well-educated and value hard work, civic responsibility and community. Sports like basketball, baseball and hockey are popular. Seafood — especially lobster, clam chowder, and fish and chips — are common in the local cuisine.
Traffic and Public Transit Can Be Challenging
Parts of Massachusetts struggle with traffic and limited public transit options. The Boston area has an extensive public transit system, but commutes can still be long. In western MA, public transit is more limited and traffic is common, especially around the I-91 corridor. Plan ahead, check traffic reports and consider public transit options to minimize frustration.
Best Places to Live in Massachusetts
Boston Area
The Boston metro area has some of the best places to call home in Massachusetts. Just outside the city, charming towns like Concord, Lexington and Cambridge offer a small-town vibe with easy access to world-class culture, dining and entertainment in Boston. Housing costs vary widely based on how close you are to the city, but the trade-off is often arguably worth it.
North of Boston
Just 30 minutes north of Boston, you’ll find coastal towns like Gloucester, Rockport and Newburyport that feel like quintessential New England. With beaches, lighthouses and historic architecture, the North Shore has natural beauty in spades. Further inland, Andover, North Andover and Georgetown also get high marks for their top-rated schools, safe communities and suburban appeal.
Western MA
The Pioneer Valley in western Massachusetts is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Northampton, Amherst and Springfield offer a lower cost of living, especially compared to the Boston area. You’ll find five colleges, including UMass Amherst, keeping things culturally vibrant. The nearby Berkshires also provide opportunities for skiing, hiking and leaf peeping.
Cape Cod
For a coastal lifestyle, Cape Cod is hard to beat. Charming beach towns like Brewster, Dennis and Yarmouth have shoreline access, seafood shacks and that salty Cape vibe. The summer season brings heavy traffic but also lots of activities. In the off-season, the Cape has a quieter charm. Housing costs are higher here, especially waterfront properties, but for many the lifestyle is worth it.
FAQs About Living in Massachusetts
Do I Need a Car?
Public transit in Massachusetts is pretty good, especially in the Boston area, so you don’t necessarily need a car. However, outside of cities, a vehicle is needed to get around efficiently. If you plan to live in a more rural area, a car is recommended.
How Bad Are the Winters?
Winters in Massachusetts can be long, cold and snowy, especially in the western and central parts of the state. Average high temperatures in January are in the mid 30s F, and lows drop below freezing. Snowfall varies from 30 to over 100 inches per year, depending on where you are. However, coastal areas like Cape Cod have milder winters due to the ocean’s influence. If harsh winters aren’t your thing, you’ll want to factor that into your decision making.
What Are the People Like?
Massachusetts residents, known as Bay Staters, are friendly, well-educated and progressive. There’s an appreciation for history, arts and culture. Sports like baseball, basketball and hockey are also hugely popular. People tend to be fast-paced, straight-forward and value hard work.
How Much Does It Cost to Live There?
Massachusetts has a high cost of living, especially in the Greater Boston area. Housing costs are particularly steep, with the median home value well over $400,000 statewide. However, there are more affordable options if you live further from major cities. Taxes are also on the higher side, too. On the bright side, Massachusetts has a strong economy with many high-paying job opportunities. And world-class healthcare, education and other benefits are available.
What Are the Best Places to Live?
Some of the best places to live in Massachusetts include Northampton, Amherst, Concord, Salem and Cambridge. These charming towns offer natural scenery, good schools, vibrant neighborhoods, culture, outdoor recreation and a reasonable commute to Boston or other nearby cities for work or play. Coastal towns like Gloucester, Rockport and Provincetown also attract many new residents. In the end, the best place for you depends on factors like job, lifestyle preferences and budget.
Overall, Massachusetts has so much to offer. A blend of city life and natural beauty, history and culture, all within a highly educated, progressive society. If you’re looking to relocate, the Bay State deserves strong consideration. The stunning landscapes, historical significance, excellent schools and distinct seasons provide an unparalleled quality of life in this little corner of New England.
Still thinking about making a move to Massachusetts state? Whether you’re moving here for school, a new job, or just want a change of pace, America’s #1 Mover® can help you relocate from anywhere in the country.
Working with a professional moving company like United Van Lines can take the hassle out of cross-country moves to Massachusetts. Our customized, full-service moving packages can cover all your moving needs. United’s experienced agents can manage storage, packing, unpacking, car shipping, debris removal and more.
Want to know more about living in Massachusetts? Delve deeper with our city and state guides. Ready to make a move? Our blog is filled with helpful moving checklists, tips and tricks for settling in your new abode.
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