Auburn vs. Millbury (Shrewsbury, Ashland: hotels, homes, schools)

[VT'er]

Can anyone assist in providing the difference between these two towns??? I see that Auburn is closer to the interstates which is a positive being that I would be travelling into CT for work and even Hartford occasionally while my wife would be travelling into Ashland for her emplyment. I would want her commute to be around 25-30 miles MAX. I see that both towns have some newer developments going in that are priced reasonably (which sends up red flags!!! ) Auburn has Prospect Hills and Byrn Mawr Estates while Millbury had Cronin Brook Heights. (Any direct info on either of these two developments would be great!) We are looking for towns that have easy access to shopping, eateries and outdoor activity (parks, bike paths, etc) Walkable town centers are a plus. I know finding all these things in one town is tough but as long as they are close by. We have no childred yet so schools are not our top priority. We are also looking into Shrewsbury but see newer homes are not as many in our price range (350K-425K). Seems like Shrewsbury trumps both Auburn and Millbury....any info is appreciated!

[mikeemon]

The general rule of thumb here is the further east you go, the higher the prices go. Auburn and Millbury are both nice places. I live in Auburn. Most of what you are looking for is available in both towns and both are close enough so that you can use either. Auburn was a farm town and is now more commerciallized and has an indoor mall. Millbury is an old mill town and has a newer outdoor mall that is off by itself and an older town center shop area. Both have I-90 access you should come out here and look around for a day or weekend. Auburn has several hotels and you will find plenty to explore.