When it comes to finding a safe place to live in Massachusetts, there are several cities that stand out for their low crime rates and welcoming communities. These cities not only offer a sense of security but also provide a variety of amenities and opportunities for residents.

Whether you're a university student looking for a place to call home or a professional seeking a safe and vibrant city, Massachusetts has some excellent options to consider. Let's explore the top 8 safest places to live in Massachusetts.

Lexington

safest places to live in Massachusetts

Located just outside of Boston, Lexington offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and urban convenience. This historic town is home to numerous academic institutions, including Lexington High School, known for its exceptional education.

Here are some key statistics about Lexington:

  • The population of Lexington is approximately 34,235 people.
  • The crime rate in Lexington is 65% lower than the national average, according to recent reports.
  • Lexington boasts an extensive network of parks and trails, including the popular Minuteman Bikeway and the serene Great Meadows, offering outdoor enthusiasts plenty of recreational opportunities.
  • Lexington is located near several colleges and universities, although specific names were not mentioned in the provided information.
  • The median home price in Lexington averages around $1.2 million, reflecting the higher cost of living in the area.
  • However, there are rental options available in Lexington, with the average monthly cost for a one-bedroom apartment being approximately $2,200.

Franklin

Nestled in Norfolk County, Franklin is a welcoming community with a population of over 70,927 residents.

Here are some key statistics about Franklin:

  • Franklin is known for its exceptional school system and is located near several renowned colleges and universities, including Dean College, providing ample educational opportunities.
  • Safety is a priority in Franklin, with a crime rate 42% lower than the national average.
  • Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the expansive Franklin State Forest or take a leisurely stroll along the SNETT Rail Trail for recreational activities.
  • Housing in Franklin is relatively affordable, with the median home price averaging around $400,000.
  • If you're looking to rent, the average monthly cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Franklin is approximately $1,700.

Westford

Located in Middlesex County, Westford is a picturesque town with a population of around 24,353 people.

Here are some key statistics about Westford:

  • Westford is known for its highly regarded public school system, attracting families and students to the area.
  • The town boasts a crime rate 60% lower than the national average.
  • Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the town's beautiful nature reserves, including Stony Brook and Forge Pond, which offer opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation.
  • The median home price in Westford is approximately $550,000, reflecting the average cost of housing in the area.
  • For those looking to rent, the average monthly cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Westford is around $1,800.

Needham

Situated just a short drive from downtown Boston, Needham is a vibrant town with a population of over 31,000 residents.

Here are some key statistics about Needham:

  • The population of Needham is over 31,000 residents.
  • Needham is home to prestigious educational institutions like Needham High School and Babson College, providing excellent educational opportunities.
  • The town boasts a crime rate 55% lower than the national average.
  • Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the serene beauty of Cutler Park Reservation or explore the various trails at Needham Town Forest for recreational activities.
  • With a median home price of around $1 million, housing in Needham can be on the higher end, reflecting the desirable location and quality of life in the area.
  • However, rental options are available in Needham, with the average monthly cost for a one-bedroom apartment being approximately $2,400.

Winchester

safest places to live in Massachusetts

Winchester, a charming town located just north of Boston, offers a delightful blend of suburban tranquility and urban accessibility.

Here are some key statistics about Winchester:

  • Winchester has a population of approximately 22,875 people.
  • The town has a crime rate 52% lower than the national average.
  • Winchester boasts numerous recreational facilities, including the Middlesex Fells Reservation, which provides a vast expanse of hiking trails and scenic views.
  • The town has top-rated public schools, reflecting its strong commitment to education. Additionally, Winchester is located near notable colleges and universities, although specific names were not provided.
  • The median home price in Winchester is around $1.1 million, reflecting the higher cost of living in the area.
  • For those looking to rent, the average monthly cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Winchester is approximately $2,300.

Acton

Acton, located in Middlesex County, is a picturesque New England town known for its excellent schools and strong sense of community.

Here are some key statistics about Acton:

  • Acton has a population of around 23,874 residents people.
  • The town has a crime rate 42% lower than the national average.
  • Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the multiple conservation areas in Acton, such as the scenic Acton Arboretum and the vast Nagog Hill Conservation Area, which provide opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and picnicking.
  • Acton's strong commitment to education is reflected in its excellent schools.
  • The median home price in Acton is approximately $730,000, reflecting the average cost of housing in the area.
  • For those seeking rental options, the average monthly cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Acton is around $2,000.

Westwood

Situated southwest of Boston, Westwood is a picturesque town known for its excellent schools and close-knit community.

Here are some key statistics about Westwood:

  • Westwood has a population of approximately 16,215 residents.
  • The town boasts a crime rate 48% lower than the national average.
  • Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy Hale Reservation, a sprawling nature preserve offering opportunities for hiking, swimming, and camping.
  • Westwood's commitment to education is evident through its highly regarded public schools and its proximity to esteemed institutions such as Boston College and Northeastern University.
  • The median home price in Westwood is around $900,000, reflecting the average cost of housing in the area.
  • For those seeking rental options, the average monthly cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Westwood is approximately $2,100.

Wellesley

safest places to live in Massachusetts

Wellesley, located just west of Boston, is a charming town renowned for its affluent neighborhoods and prestigious educational institutions.

Here are some key statistics about Wellesley:

  • Wellesley has a population of approximately 29,365 residents.
  • The town boasts a crime rate 62% lower than the national average.
  • Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the picturesque Wellesley College Botanic Gardens or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the tranquil Centennial Reservation.
  • Wellesley is home to notable educational institutions such as Wellesley College and Babson College, providing excellent educational opportunities.
  • The median home price in Wellesley is approximately $1.5 million, reflecting the higher cost of living and the affluent nature of the town.
  • For those seeking rental options, the average monthly cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Wellesley is around $2,400.