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Why Newton is One of the Most Desirable Cities in MA

By
Real Estate Sales Representative with Castles Unlimited®

What You Should Know When You Buy in Newton

 

Newton, MA is the quintessential New England city. Its proximity to Boston, excellent public and private schools, and picturesque historical districts contribute to its reputation as a great place to live. So, what do you need to know when you decide to look for a home in the city? Here are a few facts that might influence your home search.

 

  • The Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) bisects the city, providing easy access to Boston, Logan Airport, and the western reaches of the state.
  • Newton is actually comprised of 13 villages, each with a unique “personality” – from the historical architecture of Chestnut Hill to the Italian heritage of Nonantum. Many feature their own downtown areas.
  • There are three forms of mass transit in Newton administered by the MBTA: light and commuter rail and bus service.
  • The city boasts several “scenic” roads that feature mature trees and historic stone walls.
  • Newton is known as “The Garden City.”
  • Newton’s religious milieu includes Catholic, Protestant, Orthodox, and Jewish houses of worship.
  • The city is home to substantial Asian and Jewish populations.
  • Median age in the city is 39.
  • The FBI has consistently ranked Newton as among the safest cities in America since 2004.
  • Newton boasts two public high schools, four public middle schools, and numerous public elementary schools as well as a number of private schools.
  • Boston College is located in Newton’s village of Chestnut Hill.
  • The city is home to Newton-Wellesley Hospital, which is affiliated with Harvard Medical School and Tufts University School of Medicine.
  • Despite its proximity to Boston, most Newton residents work in Newton or surrounding suburbs rather in Boston proper.
  • As one of America’s first commuter suburbs, Newton’s gracious oldest homes were built first by commuters on the Boston and Worcester railroad; then by those reliant on streetcar systems; and finally when automobiles became accessible to prosperous Americans.
  • Newton’s user-friendly website provides a wealth of information about services provided by the city.
  • The website for the city of Newton allows residents the opportunity to pay municipal bills online.
  • The city features resources and programs for seniors and retirees as well as veterans.
  • Newton’s city government sponsors commissions on child care, human rights, and youth, as well as a Health Advisory Council.
  • Newton’s Medical Reserve Corps is at the ready during emergencies and during yearly public health activities.
  • Two symphony orchestras call Newton home: the New Philharmonia Orchestra of Massachusetts and the Newton Symphony Orchestra.
  • The Newton Cultural Alliance sponsors Culture ‘n Cuisine, affording patrons of New Philharmonia concerts a 10% discount at participating Newton restaurants.
  • Newton has a rich (and famous!) history. Notable former residents include Nathaniel Hawthorne, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Anne Sexton, Ted Williams, Isaac Asimov, Mary Baker Eddy, Larry Bird, and Matt Damon.
  • Following Route 16, Boston Marathon runners annually suffer through Newton’s notoriously rigorous stretch, Heartbreak Hill.
  • The Fig Newton cookie is named after the city.


Storied and sought-after, real estate in Newton comes with an unparalleled sense of community and unending cultural and social opportunities. There’s a reason that Newton is consistently touted as one of the best places to live in Massachusetts. Savvy homebuyers will recognize the opportunities that the city affords and be swift to close the deal on a Newton home.