Thoughts on Gloucester for a SAHM? Too isolated? (Boston, Beverly: fit in, oceanfront)

[2165Jackson]

Looking for insight into Gloucester as a stay-at-home mom. My husband has found a rental in the Gloucester area that he loves. I'm less sure.

We've always been city (DC, SF, and Philly) or out-ring suburbs (Main Line Philadelphia). While the nature and space on the North Shore are appealing, I'm a bit concerned that it could be isolating for a SAHM.

I'm also in my mid-30s, so not a young new mom (daughter, 15 mos). Will I find much community in the way other "older" new moms without having to travel to other North Shore towns?

My husband will be commuting to the Wilmington, MA area -- unfortunately not near a train, so we don't need public transportation nearby (although it's always nice). I'm at home for now, but that may change down the road - although also not a consideration in choosing where to live. We have also looked into Marblehead (concerns about the commute/access to Boston), Ipswich/Essex (maybe a stretch too far out for us), and Beverly/Beverly Farms (not a great fit for us).

Just renting for now. School systems are not a concern yet, but would like to have good options for toddler/pre-school activities, moms groups, etc.

[konfetka]

Gloucester has many of the best playgrounds on the North Shore, great beaches - the best kid beach, Wingarsheek, and restaurants. There are cruises, whale watches and a new Maritime Center with an aquarium and activities for kids. In the summer there is a Pirate Fair and a Rennaissance fair at the oceanfront Hammond castle. You will be right next to downtown Rockport - a huge tourist draw for it's artsy shops and festivals. Especially in the summertime you will be in the middle of the action, as Gloucester is a popular weekend destination for people from all over Greater Boston, while still within an hour train ride to the city.

I can think of many more less happening towns around Boston, you will be right next to other great towns, such as Manhester-by-the-sea, Ipswich, Rockport and Essex. It's hard not to fall in love with North Shore and Cape Ann, and you will be right in the middle of it all.

[konfetka]

For a list of all family activities and places to meet other moms you can got to the North Shore Kid website.

[Moem21]

I would consider Rockport. It is extremely safe, sahm's all over the place, especially the south neighborhoods. The school system is one of the best, small classes, dedicated teachers. There are beaches, shopping district, and hiking trails. And the T comes right into Rockport. It can be tricky to find year round rentals, most are seasonal. We moved here a year ago from Ohio and will never move back!!!! Good Luck!

[Bruins_Fan]

If you're concerned about Marblehead's commute/access to Boston, I'm not sure how Gloucester is any better.

[SoFresh99]

Originally Posted by 2165Jackson

I'm also in my mid-30s, so not a young new mom (daughter, 15 mos). Will I find much community in the way other "older" new moms without having to travel to other North Shore towns?

This is not an issue around here, most new mom's are in their mid 30s.

[JacksonPanther]

I'm thinking the OP just finished watching "The Perfect Storm" and has concerns about "fitting in" with the local indigenous Gloucester population...

[brightdoglover]

Hey, if you can't fit in with George Clooney and Diane Lane...
There certainly is a significant "townie" population, but Gloucester has its more gentrified areas and people, too. Someone must be riding the train down towards Boston.