Everything positive you have heard about Framingham is most likely true, and there's more!
The city stands out first for its strategic location — just a stone's throw from Boston, promising much more than meets the eye.
Yet, as idyllic as it may seem, living here comes with a price tag that might make your wallet weep.
But before you make any judgments, let's dig deeper!
What is life really like in Framingham?
Is it a bustling hub where dreams thrive, or does its high cost of living overshadow its perks?
Is Framingham, MA, a good place to live?
It's time to unpack the good, the bad, and the in-between about life in Framingham. The city might require a pretty penny, but at what cost?
Let's find out.
Hear this: an overall cost of living 37% higher than the national average isn't exactly budget-friendly.
…but that's precisely what living in Framingham is about.
It means paying top dollar as a trade-off for the wealth of amenities and proximity to Boston.
Median home prices hover around $564,500, and rent isn't much kinder—apartments average about $2,434 monthly for an 826 sq. ft. apartment.
Yes, it is a great spot for those who can afford the splurge. But the cost of housing, groceries, and utilities ranks higher than most other places in the country, and you should get prepared for that.
Access to quality healthcare in Framingham is top-notch. With reputable hospitals like MetroWest Medical Center and Saint Vincent Hospital, you can rest easy knowing some places will cater to your medical needs.
Also, there are many specialists and clinics that you can visit if you require specialist medical attention. The snag is that the healthcare's price tag here aligns with the town's higher cost of living.
But, if money is not a limitation for you, the answer to 'Is Framingham, MA, a good place to live?' is a definite yes.
The city's economy is thriving, thanks to a mix of industries, from retail giants like TJX Companies to biotech firms and small businesses.
Although institutions like the moving company in Framingham may be small, they also add to the labor force of people who make moving here seamless.
If you work in either healthcare, education, or retail, you will be well-off in Framingham. Plus, you will earn above the national median household income.
Unemployment rates here are low, even lower than the national average. Additionally, the town's proximity to Boston opens up even more job opportunities for residents.
However, commuting to the city could mean grappling with traffic, but more on that later.
Over 89% of Framingham residents are high school graduates, and more than 52% are also college graduates.
But does the quantity speak for the quality of education here?
Framingham's schools offer a mix of public and private options. However, for public schools, the Framingham School District's school quality rating is below average, better than only 49% of all U.S. school districts.
Bringing it closer home to Massachusetts, the school district is only better than 23.4% of all Massachusetts school districts. However, Framingham High School is well-regarded, and the town has a standout bilingual education program.
That's not all! There's also Framingham State University for higher education.
So, is Framingham, MA, a good place to live, considering its education quality?
It depends on what you want out of your education. While it's definitely not the best, it provides more than just the basics.
Ever heard about Callahan State Park? If not, it's time to put this gem on your radar.
This sprawling 800-acre park is your go-to green space and sanctuary, especially as a newbie in town. Relaxation, connection, and outdoor adventure that's Callahan State Park in a nutshell.
Meanwhile, the open spaces and scenic spots offer ideal settings for a casual picnic, a quiet read, or even a chance to meet with neighbors who quickly feel like friends.
But if you are up for more bustling scenes, there are impressive diners and shopping centers. Plus, the town hosts diverse cultural events and boasts a rich arts community.
On weekends, you can explore everything from farmer's markets to live music venues. Yet, some might argue the nightlife doesn't compare to Boston's buzz.
Who cares? That you have fun is enough.
If you know anything about U.S. cities, the public transportation system is not extensive compared to other cities outside the country.
So, for about 3.9% of Framingham's 71,875 residents to rely on public transportation, the system is quite good enough.
Another 5.7% prefer to either walk or ride a bike. The takeaway is that the combination of the MBTA commuter rail and local bus routes connects residents to Boston and major highways like I-90.
For the city commuters, this easy access is a haven. But that said, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can test your patience.
The average commute time is 37 minutes, 5 minutes more than the national average.
So, is Framingham, MA, a good place to live? Not exactly, not when you are in a hurry.
Framingham's property crime rate is slightly above the state average but lower than the national median.
Most incidents of crime here are non-violent. For instance, while there is a 1 in 348 chance of being a victim of a violent crime here, the chance increases to 1 in 70 for property crime.
Specifically, theft is the most common property crime here, with a crime rate of 8.16 per 1,000 residents.
Note:
Neighborhoods like Nobscot and Saxonville are generally considered safe, while some parts of downtown may warrant more caution.
Living in Framingham, MA is like a classic day — beautiful, busy, and occasionally overwhelming when you have just been in traffic or needed to pay your bills.
The cost of living can make you wince, but solid job prospects, numerous events, and amenities keep it desirable. On the other hand, you'll have to deal with the occasional traffic jams.
So, is Framingham worth the price tag?
Is Framingham, MA, a good place to live?
That's a question only you can answer after weighing its pros and cons — can you manage?
Either way, this urban-suburban town offers plenty for those ready to call it home!
