News Summary
Brookline has been ranked as the top metro-area town to live in the Boston region, according to a Stacker report based on various living conditions. The report considered factors such as cost of living, education rate, housing, public schools, and crime rates. Following Brookline in the rankings are Cambridge, Lexington, Belmont, and Newton, all receiving high grades. Despite challenges in housing affordability, Brookline offers a vibrant community with a diverse population and excellent public services, making it an attractive destination for families and individuals alike.
Brookline Recognized as Best Place to Live in the Boston Area
Brookline has been ranked as the best metro-area town to live in the Boston region according to a recent report by Stacker, which utilized data from Niche. This ranking is based on an analysis that considers 15 weighted factors, including cost of living, higher education rate, housing, public schools, diversity, and crime rates.
In the rankings, Brookline is followed closely by cities such as Cambridge, Lexington, Belmont, and Newton, all of which received an A+ grade from Niche. Notably, Cambridge recently was highlighted in another report as the number one place to live in Greater Boston by Boston Magazine. Furthermore, Niche recognized Cambridge as the best city to live in the entire nation in 2023.
Assessment Criteria and Rankings
The rankings produced by Stacker utilize a variety of factors to create an overall score for each town. Among these are the availability and quality of public schools, which received an A+ for Brookline, marking it as a family-friendly environment. Additionally, Brookline scored highly in categories like nightlife and diversity. However, it received lower ratings in terms of housing affordability and cost of living. The median home value in Brookline is approximately $1.2 million, with median rent reported at $2,804.
At the lower end of Stacker’s ranking is Westwood, positioned at number 25. Other towns that fell into the bottom ranks include Medway (24th), Sherborn (23rd), and Groton (22nd). Despite their lower rankings, these towns still received grades of A or higher from Niche, indicating that they have many qualities that residents may find appealing.
Demographics and Community Life in Brookline
Brookline boasts a population of approximately 62,822 people, with about 54% of residents being homeowners and 46% renters. The town is celebrated for its urban feel, diverse neighborhood, and plethora of dining and entertainment options, contributing to a vibrant community atmosphere. Residents report enjoying a calm environment while still having good access to downtown Boston, enhancing the appeal of living in Brookline.
Testimonials from Brookline residents often highlight the town’s parks, safety, and overall quality of life as key factors that attract families and individuals alike. The presence of recreational space and amenities also contributes to the town’s appeal, making it a desirable place to live for those who value a rich community life.
Conclusion and Broader Context
Niche evaluates neighborhoods across the United States using various data sources, including the U.S. Department of Education and resident surveys. The objective of these evaluations is to provide a comprehensive look at what different communities have to offer based on critical living conditions. The recognition of Brookline as the best place to live in the Boston area reflects a growing trend in urban living preferences, where factors such as quality education, public safety, and recreational opportunities play increasingly significant roles.
Overall, Brookline is positioned not only as a top contender in the Boston area but also as a model for communities across the country looking to improve their livability while maintaining a diverse and vibrant resident base.
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Additional Resources
- Boston.com: Best Places to Live in Greater Boston
- Boston 25 News: Boston Suburbs Ranked Among Best Places to Live
- NBC Boston: Best Places to Live in America for 2025
- Patch: Brookline Ranked Among Best Places to Live
- Boston Globe: Massachusetts Best Places to Live
- Wikipedia: Brookline, Massachusetts
- Google Search: Best places to live in Boston
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Living Conditions
