Marblehead and Swampscott (Boston, Lynn, Salem: house, school rankings, living)

[wendyldonohue]

My husband and I are in our early 30's with a baby and are house hunting in Marblehead and Swampscott. Could you share your opinions about living and raising a young family in either or both towns? I have researched the school rankings and other demographic information, but was hoping for personal experiences and opinions. Thanks in advance.

[brightdoglover]

Both are terrific places. Swampscott is more of a Jewish community, Marblehead, I think, somewhat more of an old New England. Both have reputations as great places to live, kids or no, and have beautiful views.
I don't know if Swampscott has access to commuter rail, Marblehead does.
You couldn't go wrong in either town, I think. Best wishes on your move.

[MAtoNC!]

I used to live in Swampscott w/ young kids. Fabulous town! It sure does have T access! It has commuter rail and Marblehead does not. Marblehead has MBTA buses and is in between Swampscott and Salem's commuter rail stations. Swampscott also has MBTA buses. Check out MBTA.com > Official Website for Greater Boston's Public Transportation System for routes. Swampscott is less expensive than Marblehead. Regardless I actually preferred it because it's closer to Boston, has better public transportation, and shopping right in town (Vinnin Square area -- Whole Foods, Trader Joe's. Stop & Shop, CVS, Marshalls, etc).

[mmay6]

We too are looking at both swampscott and marblehead as areas we would like to move to. I took a job at MIT lincoln lab and am worried about the commute. How early in the morning would I have to leave to avoid major traffic and what is afternoon traffic like, what time does it get congested?

Also, I was told that Swampscott had no downtown, is that true? We'd like an area with restaurants and shopping, an area we could stroll around and take our kids out to ice cream.

Any information on what makes these two towns different would be great!

[DreamworksSKG]

You might look into Manchester by the sea too.
out on Cape Ann.

---Jeff--
Winchester, MA

[Barkingowl]

Originally Posted by brightdoglover

I don't know if Swampscott has access to commuter rail, Marblehead does. You couldn't go wrong in either town, I think. Best wishes on your move.

The closest access to commuter rail from Marblehead would be in either Salem or Lynn. The same holds true for Swampscott.

I grew up in Marblehead & lived there on & off till 2006. I think its a great place to live & raise a family. Swampscott would be a great place to live as well. The only downtown that I remember Swampscott having is along Rt 1A. There are restaurants & some small shops.

[doog123]

swampscott actually has a commuter rail stop of its own

[holden125]

Originally Posted by doog123

swampscott actually has a commuter rail stop of its own

and Marblehead doesn't