Rockport Compared to Monterey, CA (Boston, Peabody: homes, school, pros and cons)

[lippo57]

I am considering moving from Monterey to Rockport or nearby there. Can anyone give me some pros and cons?
Thank You!

[ontheroad]

What are you looking for in Rockport? I was just there, and I am considering it as a relocation area myself.

But I must say I can just barely remember Monterey and might have a difficult time making a comparison.

[lippo57]

Well, my husband was offered a great job nearby Rockport. We have lived in Monterey all our lives and are having a difficult time finding work. We are accustomed to a very nice area. We think we need to relocate. What did you think of Rockport when you were there??
Thank you

[ontheroad]

The area is beautiful. It is a small community, and somewhat isolated because it is a Cape (Cape Ann), but it does have a commuter train into Boston, about one hour I think.

I really liked almost everything about it--it's quaintness; the ocean accessibility; the surrounding areas are also lovely. It has some good or excellent community activities, and some good religious organizations. Many opportunities for civil, social and entertainment; a good art group, and a new music venue.

My only objection to it is that in summers it gets many tourists. I just lived in Taos, NM for more than a year, and I have grown tired of too many tourists, and too many shirts selling their town.

I have two friends, married with twins, and they have really found a good life there--they claim the school is good, and from the little time I spent with the twins, I'd say they are being exposed to good academics and lots of extra-curricula choices.

Major shopping is not available in town. The nearest supermarket I believe is in Gloucester (about 5-8 miles away). One main road into and out of the Cape towns is somewhat of a liability.

If you have any questions, specific that is, please feel free to ask.

[julz]

Rockport is a great little town.The only negatives are the price of homes and commute.Winters aren't bad but summers are brutal with all the tourists.There is an IGA supermarket in Rockport but your main supermarket is in Gloucester.Unfortunately there is not much else in the name of shopping.No disrespect to the smaller shops but you have a a 30-40 min commute up 128 to the Danvers and Peabody Mall if you're looking for a Target,Sears,Home Depot or any of your major shopping.My brother actiually lived on Bearskin Neck for several yrs.It really is a quaint little town.

[skytrekker]

Monterey Ca. will have a milder climate- with no cold in the winter. And no snow.

Summers will be a bit cooler in Monterey then Rockport.

Both cities offer a maritime existence. Rockport will be more European in its

outlook. Since I have visited both towns I will remain impartial- and let you be

the judge.

[turk1will]

It's not Monterey. However I summered in Rockport as a child. It's "STUNNING". Winter is harsh anywhere along the coast sometimes brutal. I would like to suggest "Beverly Farms". Close to the coast yet set back. It will definately put you in the class you are reaching for. A tad pricey but well worth it . Quite a laid back artsy community but very strong in wealth and breeding. As you can tell I've decided to pull no punches. Rockport is very crowded in summertime. I can remember my dad having to drive around aimlessly while trying to find a spot for the beloved Lincoln. Also to find a spot on the beach was near impossible. The water on the "NECK' is ice cold in deepest summer. Move to the "Farms" and get yourself a nice pool and every now and then take a Jaunt to the neck for din-din but live there I think not.

[ontheroad]

I never found the IGA. Can you post where it is, if you come back to the thread. I only saw a small market off Main Street.

[/i]

Originally Posted by julz

Rockport is a great little town.The only negatives are the price of homes and commute.Winters aren't bad but summers are brutal with all the tourists.There is an IGA supermarket in Rockport but your main supermarket is in Gloucester.Unfortunately there is not much else in the name of shopping.No disrespect to the smaller shops but you have a a 30-40 min commute up 128 to the Danvers and Peabody Mall if you're looking for a Target,Sears,Home Depot or any of your major shopping.My brother actiually lived on Bearskin Neck for several yrs.It really is a quaint little town.

[lippo57]

Okay, thank you all for your replies!!!!!!!!!!
Not sure you are aware of the living conditions on the penninusla...........
It is paradise compared to alot of other areas.
Very expensive. But what does a native california girl with no money do when it comes to moving ??????

[julz]

The IGA is right at the train station (Whistlestop Mall).