Top 15 Places to Live in Greater Boston for 2025, per Boston Magazine

For years, experts have shared insights about the top places to live in Greater Boston. Now, for the first time, an official ranking has been unveiled. But what truly defines a great city or town? For most homebuyers, it’s a combination of rising property values, safety, convenient access to shops, restaurants, and healthcare, as well as a welcoming community with diverse perspectives. For families, top-rated schools are also a key factor.

To create an accurate and comprehensive list, the team partnered with the research and publishing experts at DataJoe. Using their CityScore system, 141 cities and towns within—or partially within—Massachusetts’ I-495 boundary were analyzed. Each location was scored across eight critical categories, including housing, safety, entertainment, and education, to determine an overall score and ranking.

This guide breaks down the results and highlights the best places to live in Greater Boston. Whether readers are seeking vibrant nightlife, family-friendly communities, or a smart investment opportunity, this ranking offers valuable insights. Keep reading to discover which towns made the cut!

  1. Cambridge

  2. Wellesley

  3. Brookline

  4. Newton

  5. Somerville

  6. Needham

  7. Lexington

  8. Medfield

  9. Weston

  10. Arlington

  11. Bedford

  12. Dover

  13. Belmont

  14. Wayland

  15. Andover

For a more detailed look, head over to the Boston Magazine article.

Kevin Woo