Denver to Boston area where to live? (Cambridge, Somerville: to rent, condo)

[dhden2000]

After leaving Boston 25 years ago I'm considering moving back home to NE, originally from CT. I work in IT testing software and could likely work remotely, at least for awhile. Have a brother who lives in southern New Hampshire and a sister who lives in Charlestown. While I think I'd like NH being in late 40's and single I don't know if that is the best idea? I need to find other single folks to hang out with and mix with if that makes sense. I'm into outdoorsy stuff particarly water sports, kayaking, sailing, hiking etc... Have a 23 foot sailboat I could bring with me if I can find a suitable place to sail it. I'd like to be close to my brother and sister but also close to the ocean and commuter rail. Looking for a descent town not too sketchy somewhat affordable which provides access to the city. I'm okay with living in a quiet area and going into the city if I want excitement. For one year I'd likely need to rent a place until settled. Once I'm ready to buy I could afford up to about $250-330K for a townhouse, something low maintenance. Any helpful advice appreciated or if one has any opinions about living in NH versus north shore? Thanks, good day.

[CaseyB]

Your budget might be a little low for something decent on the N. Shore. Maybe the Portsmouth area?

[kingeorge]

RE prices went up quite a bit in a last decade. If you do not need too much space I would look at Beverly, Salem, maybe Newburyport for a smaller 1-2 bed condo. TH are rarer, and might be more expensive, but who knows, maybe you bump into something decent. If you want to be closer action then Cambridge, Watertown, Waltham, Arlington, Charleston etc..but they will cost you plenty more overall.

Anything newer and more updated will probably cost you more, but if you are not needing all the bells and whistles, and understand that housing stock is much older here, then from where you come from, you can do well. My advice is to rent first to acclimate, and then figure out your long term plan.

Portsmouth NH is very good suggestion too. NH will be cheaper, and if low budget is really important, look there first. Make sure you understand tax issues if you end up living in NH but working in MA.

Good luck.

[SalamanderSmile]

Eastie. Nobody ever says move to Eastie on this forum but it is dense, walkable, on the subway, and becoming more gentrified slowly therefore affordable. Also there is a marina, you can moor your boat and walk to it from your house. I have friends in Eastie and they LOVE it. But it is not for everyone. Being single in your 40s also lends itself to the Cambridge, Somerville, Arlington stretch. Join a cycling club and meet people.