Finding a cheapest place to live near Boston can be challenging for many people. The high cost of living in Boston means that the suburbs are a popular option for people who want to save money, while still being close to the city’s amenities and job opportunities.
AOA Moving Services understands the importance of finding a home that fits your budget and lifestyle. This guide explores the cheapest places to live near Boston, focusing on suburbs that strike a balance between affordability, accessibility, and amenities.
🔍 Is it cheaper to live outside of Boston? Considering the Boston cost of living, living in the suburbs is a more affordable option. Boston's cost of living is 50% higher than the national average, with housing being 124% higher (according PayScale and BestPlaces). By choosing suburbs, you can significantly reduce these expenses, enjoying savings while still accessing the city's resources.
Criteria for Choosing a Affordable Boston Suburb
When searching for affordable Boston suburbs, we consider several key factors:
- 💰 Cost of Living: Essential for identifying truly affordable areas.
- 🚆 Commute Time to Boston: Short commutes save time and stress.
- 🛡️ Safety: Low crime rates are crucial for peace of mind.
- 🎓 School District Ratings: Important for families prioritizing education.
- 🌳 Community Amenities: Parks, shops, and restaurants enhance living quality.
These criteria ensure that the suburbs we recommend offer not just affordability but also a quality lifestyle close to Boston.
Affordable Suburbs Near Boston
🌲 Ayer, MA
Ayer, MA – Ideal for Families and Commuters
Ayer offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern convenience. This charming small town is known for its green spaces and community-oriented lifestyle. Its historic downtown and easy access to outdoor activities make it a great choice for those looking for a quieter life near Boston.
Key statistics:
- 👥 Population: 8,424 (according to Census.gov)
- 🏡 Median Home Price: $495,575 which is 30% less than Boston (according to Zillow)
- 🛌 Average Rent: $2,195 which is 35% less than Boston (according to Zillow)
- 💸 Cost of Living Index: 21% lower than Boston (according to BestPlaces)
- 🚆 Commute Time to Boston: Approximately 1 hour by car (according to Google Maps).
- 🛡️ Safety: 64 – total crime rate, which is five times safer than Boston (according to NeighborhoodScout).
- 🎓 School District Ratings: Many schools in this area have average school ratings (according to GreatSchools)
Community Amenities
Ayer is home to the Nashua River Rail Trail, Sandy Pond Beach, and a variety of local parks. Its downtown area features quaint shops and restaurants, providing a cozy small-town feel.
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
Affordable housing, safe community, and good schools make Ayer ideal for families. Its outdoor amenities and historic downtown appeal to those who enjoy a mix of nature and small-town charm.
❌ Cons
The commute might be longer compared to suburbs closer to Boston. Limited nightlife and dining options for those seeking a more urban lifestyle.
🏖️ Lynn, MA
Lynn, MA – Ideal for Millennials & Young Professionals
A really big suburb. Lynn, renowned for its arts scene and historical significance, offers a dynamic mix of urban and coastal life. This city is rapidly evolving, attracting those seeking affordability without compromising the cultural benefits of city living.
Key statistics:
- 👥 Population: 100,891 (according to Census.gov)
- 🏡 Median Home Price: $511,007 which is 28% less than Boston (according to Zillow)
- 🛌 Average Rent: $2,284 which is 33% less than Boston (according to Zillow)
- 💸 Cost of Living Index: 24% lower than Boston (according to BestPlaces)
- 🚆 Commute Time to Boston: Approximately 30 min by car (according to Google Maps)
- 🛡️ Safety: 25 – total crime rate, which is almost two times safer than Boston (according to NeighborhoodScout)
- 🎓 School District Ratings: A lot of schools in this area have below-average school ratings. But some individual schools really stand out with their high rankings. Like KIPP Academy, for example (according to GreatSchools)
Community Amenities
Lynn’s coastal area and public beaches like Lynn Shore and Nahant Beach Reserve are great for relaxing and enjoying the great outdoors. Downtown is full of restaurants, coffee shops, and stores, reflecting the diverse population of the city.
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
Affordable and close to Boston, Lynn is a great place for young professionals and artists. Its diverse community and rich cultural attractions, such as public art, museums, and music halls, create a lively atmosphere.
❌ Cons
While improving, there are still some areas in Lynn that face challenges due to crime and public perceptions. The educational quality can vary quite a bit across the district.
🧹 Salem, MA
Salem, MA – Ideal for Families & History Enthusiasts
Salem boasts more than just a rich haunted past. This coastal town combines historical sites with a lively arts scene, making it a great place to live for families and history lovers alike.
Key statistics:
- 👥 Population: 44,722 (according to Census.gov)
- 🏡 Median Home Price: $553,143 which is 28% less than Boston (according to Zillow)
- 🛌 Average Rent: $2,650 which is 22% less than Boston (according to Zillow)
- 💸 Cost of Living Index: 22% lower than Boston (according to BestPlaces)
- 🚆 Commute Time to Boston: Approximately 30 min by car (according to Google Maps)
- 🛡️ Safety: 34 – total crime rate, which is almost three times safer than Boston (according to NeighborhoodScout)
- 🎓 School District Ratings: Salem’s school district presents a mix, with several schools rated below average. However, Salem Academy Charter School stands as a notable exception, offering quality education (according to GreatSchools)
Community Amenities
The residents have easy access to the Salem Witch Museum and the Peabody-Essex Museum, as well as a bunch of other historic sites. The parks, beaches, and walkable downtown make for a great community life in Salem.
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
Salem’s rich history and cultural events, like the famous Halloween celebrations, provide year-round entertainment. The city’s waterfront and downtown offer dining, shopping, and leisure activities.
❌ Cons
The city can become crowded with tourists, especially during the Halloween season, which might not appeal to everyone.
🏭 Peabody, MA
Peabody, MA – Ideal for Commuters & Families Seeking Balance
Peabody perfect for those who want the suburban feel, with easy access to Boston, while still maintaining the urban charm.The city strikes a perfect balance between the urban and the suburban, offering a lush array of parks, a variety of shopping options, and a wide range of residential choices.
Key statistics:
- 👥 Population: 54,492 (according to Census.gov)
- 🏡 Median Home Price: $630,456 which is 12% less than Boston (according to Zillow)
- 🛌 Average Rent: $2,300 which is 33% less than Boston (according to Zillow)
- 💸 Cost of Living Index: 18% lower than Boston (according to BestPlaces)
- 🚆 Commute Time to Boston: Approximately 30 min by car (according to Google Maps)
- 🛡️ Safety: 45 – total crime rate, which is almost four times safer than Boston (according to NeighborhoodScout)
- 🎓 School District Ratings: A larger number of schools in this district are rated below average in school quality. Others schools are average. (according to GreatSchools)
Community Amenities
Residents of Peabody have a lot to enjoy, like the Northshore Mall, which is great for shopping lovers, and lots of parks for outdoor activities. There are also a bunch of recreational facilities in the city. Every year, the International Festival in Peabody showcases its diverse culture, which helps create a strong sense of community among the people.
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
Peabody is a great place to live because it’s affordable, safe, and has a short commute to Boston. There are also lots of fun community events and facilities that help make life there awesome.
❌ Cons
The diversity of the education system means families need to carefully consider which schools are best for their children in a given area.
📚 Danvers, MA
Danvers, MA – Ideal for Nature Lovers & Families
Away from the busy city, Danvers is perfect for nature lovers and families looking for a quiet life. With its mix of suburban charm and easy access to green space, it’s a unique experience living close to Boston.
Key statistics:
- 👥 Population: 28,087 (according to Census.gov)
- 🏡 Median Home Price: $646,805 which is 9% less than Boston (according to Zillow)
- 🛌 Average Rent: $2,300 which is 33% less than Boston (according to Zillow)
- 💸 Cost of Living Index: 13% lower than Boston (according to BestPlaces)
- 🚆 Commute Time to Boston: Approximately 30 min by car (according to Google Maps)
- 🛡️ Safety: 35 – total crime rate, which is almost three times safer than Boston (according to NeighborhoodScout)
- 🎓 School District Ratings: The district boasts several high-quality schools, including Danvers High School and Essex Technical High School, with the majority of other schools rated as average (according to GreatSchools)
Community Amenities
Danvers has a lot of fun things to do, with parks, hiking trails, and other outdoor activities. Families can enjoy quality time together at Endicott Park. The town is close to the beaches, so it’s a great place for summer relaxation. There are lots of dining and shopping options, from cozy cafes to local food trucks.
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
Affordable living costs, great schools, safe environment, and easy commute to Boston. Plus, access to green spaces for outdoor recreation adds to the family-friendly vibe.
❌ Cons
While Danvers is cheaper than Boston, it still has a relatively high cost of living when compared to the others suburbs.
⛵ Beverly, MA
Beverly, MA – Ideal for Culture Enthusiasts & Professionals
Beverly is a coastal town with a rich cultural scene that attracts professionals and cultural enthusiasts. Its vibrant arts community and scenic waterfront make it a unique place to live, offering a combination of leisure and urban amenities.
Key statistics:
- 👥 Population: 42,670 (according to Census.gov)
- 🏡 Median Home Price: $668,003 which is 7% less than Boston (according to Zillow)
- 🛌 Average Rent: $2,600 which is 24% less than Boston (according to Zillow)
- 💸 Cost of Living Index: 13% lower than Boston (according to BestPlaces)
- 🚆 Commute Time to Boston: Approximately 35 min by car (according to Google Maps)
- 🛡️ Safety: 67 – total crime rate, which is almost six times safer than Boston (according to NeighborhoodScout)
- 🎓 School District Ratings: A larger number of schools in this district are rated above average in school quality (according to GreatSchools)
Community Amenities
Beverly’s community thrives on theaters, galleries and annual festivals celebrating its artistic heritage. The waterfront offers a backdrop for outdoor activities such as sailing and relaxing beach days. Culinary enthusiasts can find a diverse range of dining options from seaside eateries to trendy cafes.
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
Beverly’s got a lot of culture and safety, which makes it a great place for anyone looking for a quality life near the sea. It also has great schools and a relatively low cost of living, which is why it’s so appealing to families and professionals alike.
❌ Cons
Despite being more affordable than Boston, living costs can be high compared to other suburban areas.
🦌 Woburn, MA
Woburn, MA – Ideal for Commuters & Families
Woburn is a commuter’s dream, with quick access to Boston and a great family atmosphere. It’s a suburb that combines the convenience of city living with the close-knit community feel, making it an ideal choice for city workers looking for a quieter and more relaxed home life.
Key statistics:
- 👥 Population: 41,248 (according to Census.gov)
- 🏡 Median Home Price: $666,225 which is 7% less than Boston (according to Zillow)
- 🛌 Average Rent: $2,601 which is 24% less than Boston (according to Zillow)
- 💸 Cost of Living Index: 9% lower than Boston (according to BestPlaces)
- 🚆 Commute Time to Boston: Approximately 20 min by car (according to Google Maps)
- 🛡️ Safety: 44 – total crime rate, which is three times safer than Boston (according to NeighborhoodScout)
- 🎓 School District Ratings: Showcases a diverse educational landscape, with schools rated across the spectrum from above average to below average, offering options for various needs (according to GreatSchools)
Community Amenities
Woburn has a rich array of amenities, including numerous parks, recreational facilities, and a historic downtown that offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural events. Residents benefit from excellent public services, as well as an active local government, which fosters a sense of belonging.
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
Woburn is close to Boston and has a safer environment, making it a great place for families and commuters. The affordable housing prices compared to the city center also add to its appeal.
❌ Cons
While Woburn offers a living cost advantage, its prices may still be a bit high for some. And the mixed school ratings might require careful consideration from parents.
🛍️ Saugus, MA
Saugus, MA – Ideal for Value Seekers & Nature Enthusiasts
Saugus is one of the cheapest places to live near Boston. It has a great mix of suburban calm and natural beauty, which makes it perfect for anyone looking for value and outdoor fun while still having easy access to Boston.
Key statistics:
- 👥 Population: 28,547 (according to Census.gov)
- 🏡 Median Home Price: $615,915 which is 14% less than Boston (according to Zillow)
- 🛌 Average Rent: $2,500 which is 27% less than Boston (according to Zillow)
- 💸 Cost of Living Index: 14% lower than Boston (according to BestPlaces)
- 🚆 Commute Time to Boston: Approximately 35 min by car (according to Google Maps)
- 🛡️ Safety: 36 – total crime rate, which is almost three times safer than Boston (according to NeighborhoodScout)
- 🎓 School District Ratings: While the district shows room for improvement with several schools rated below average, Pioneer Charter School Of Science II (PCSS-II) stands out as a notable exception, offering quality education (according to GreatSchools)
Community Amenities
Saugus is famous for all its green spaces. Like, Breakheart Res, with hiking trails and all that. The town centre has a lot of options for eating and shopping, from local places to the Square One mall. Community stuff like events and local groups keep it all pretty close together, like a really great choice for affordable Boston suburbs.
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
Saugus’s affordability, safety, and proximity to Boston make it an attractive suburb for families and individuals seeking affordable housing in the Boston area. The town’s emphasis on preserving natural landscapes provides plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities, enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
❌ Cons
The educational landscape requires careful consideration, with a mix of below-average and standout schools necessitating research to find the best fit.
🎨 Dedham, MA
Dedham, MA – Ideal for Families and Professionals
Dedham in Massachusetts, just outside Boston, is a great mix of suburban peace and urban convenience. This historic town with its rich history. The picturesque streets of Dedham, lined with beautifully preserved colonial homes, make it the ideal place for anyone who appreciates the charm of living in New England.
Key statistics:
- 👥 Population: 25,364 (according to Census.gov)
- 🏡 Median Home Price: $677,904 which is 5% less than Boston (according to Zillow)
- 🛌 Average Rent: $2,795 which is 18% less than Boston (according to Zillow)
- 💸 Cost of Living Index: 6% lower than Boston (according to BestPlaces)
- 🚆 Commute Time to Boston: Approximately 55 min by car (according to Google Maps)
- 🛡️ Safety: 58 – total crime rate, which is almost four times safer than Boston (according to NeighborhoodScout)
- 🎓 School District Ratings: The Dedham School District, with many schools rated as average in quality, supports a solid educational foundation for students (according to GreatSchools)
Community Amenities
Dedham is one of the most affordable places to live near Boston. It has a lot of community-focused amenities. With numerous parks like Wilson Mountain and diverse shopping options from boutique to trendy, it caters to nature and shopping enthusiasts alike. Dedham Square serves as the cultural focal point, hosting community events like the Flag Day parade, fostering a strong sense of togetherness.
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
Dedham stands out for its affordability and safety, making it a popular suburb for people looking for value near Boston. With a rich community life that’s enhanced by regular cultural events and plenty of green spaces, it offers a balanced lifestyle.
❌ Cons
The commute might be a bit longer, especially in peak hours, which could affect daily routines. It is also a fairly expensive suburb.
Comparative Analysis of Affordable Boston Suburbs
Our graph highlights the cheapest places to live near Boston, comparing suburbs on cost of living. Lynn, MA, stands out for its affordability, ideal for budget-conscious residents.
Affordable Boston Suburbs on Map
Moving Tips
As a moving company that’s been helping families and individuals move to the cheapest places to live near Boston for years, AOA Moving Services is here to give you some expert moving tips! We want to make your move as safe, budget-friendly and smooth as possible, so here’s how we can help:
- 📋 Moving Checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay organized and on track. It covers all the important stages of the process, from early planning to last-minute details, so nothing gets forgotten.
- 📦 Packing Guide: Get some expert packing advice from us to protect your things and make unpacking easier. Our packing guide includes tips for packing efficiently, choosing the right materials, and organizing things properly.
- ♻️ Decluttering Guide: Before you pack, declutter your home to simplify the move and start over. We’ll give you some tips on how to get through your stuff and decide what to keep, sell or donate.
- 💸 Cost of Boston Movers: Moving to Boston suburbs with Boston movers? Here’s what you need to know about the cost. Our article will help you budget and plan effectively.
- 📅 Cheapest Day To Move: The timing of your move can affect your costs. Find out about the cheapest days to do it and how planning ahead can save you cash, making your move to a cheaper Boston suburb even more affordable.
By leveraging these resources, you’re not just moving; you’re setting the stage for a successful new chapter in one of the cheap places to live near Boston.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ayer, Lynn, and Salem stand out as the cheapest places to live near Boston, combining affordability with a great lifestyle. For personalized guidance, we recommend visiting these areas or seeking advice from a real estate expert.