Relocation: Anywhere Eastern Massachusetts / South New Hampshire (Boston, Lowell: rentals, lofts)

[Canif]

Hi All,

I am relocating to the Boston, MA area -- I am 100% teleworking so there is no commute to consider. I am looking for a 2 bedroom loft with granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances, on-site parking, hardwood, cement, tile (no carpet). Bonus for tile shower(s)!

The monthly rental budget is $1500 - $2100

Obviously I am not going to be living downtown in Boston... What is there on the out skirts? Is Lawrence, MA safe?

Is there anything in New Hampshire (no state taxes)?

Thanks in advance! Help me find something I would be proud to call home

[Valerie C]

Hey there Congrats on the move to Mass. If you are strictly looking for loft housing, cities on the river (former show factories and fabric mill buildings) are the place to look. There are some nice lofts in Lawrence (Monarch on the Merrimack is the first that comes to mind) but sadly, the city of Lawrence has too many areas that are less than safe. Lowell is significantly better (safer, more music & ethnic festivals along the waterfront, UMASS Lowell students adds vitality and buzz to the university/downtown area). You could also consider Haverhill--several of the loft rentals/condos are very close to the downtown area (mix of upscale dining, bars with music, arts district, coffee, ice cream and cupcake shops). Yes, there ARE some areas in all 3 cities that could be considered ghetto, but it doesn't encompass the whole city, particularly in Haverhill (the worst areas are well away from downtown).

Other lofts can be found in Amesbury. The Millyard may have rentals (but usually are sold as condos, not rental units). Amesbury has a downtown, not a lot of nightlife (that's what Boston is for )

New Hampshire has very few cities, but 2 places that you can find loft living is Nashua and Manchester, due to the former mills along the Merrimack River (gee, no wonder it was so polluted and colorful while I was growing up!) In years past, you would never consider actually going into (or even near!) the water on purpose--now there are festivals in nearly every town that has a waterfront area, people fish, boat, even waterski and paddleboard on the river!