Good place to live between Hopkinton and Providence (Attleboro, Franklin: to rent, schools)

[noreastr17]

I work in Hopkinton and my girlfriend will be working in Providence. We are looking at places to move that would be an easy commute to both places. I'd like to find a place that is safe, we are looking to rent and can spend ~800-1200 per month.

From my searches I have identified Franklin and Mansfield as potentially good places to live. Does anyone have recommendations?

Thanks

[gillisc679]

I grew up in Franklin and now live in Hopkinton. We travel regularly between Hopkinton and Providence to visit family. The good thing about these two locations is that they're really not that far apart - about 45 minutes depending on exactly where you live / work. Meaning, you don't have to pick an "ideal" place halfway in between to get reasonable commutes to both end points. Though I grew up in Franklin, I left before its growth explosion in the 90's - I can't say anything one way or another about the quality of life there now. I think there could be many good choices anywhere between Hopkinton and Providence, including those two end points, to live.

[noreastr17]

Thanks for the reply!

[mass-eclectic]

I think Franklin is a wonderful family oriented town. I have been here for a year. Spouse grew up here. It is large enough and spread out enough to handle the population growth in terms of traffic (not sure about rush hour though). Plenty of amenities. The schools have amazing athletic facilities. Cute litte downtown, but it is family oriented and closes up early. A few good restaurants. Excellent access to highways and shopping. Don't know much about Mansfield.

[mass-eclectic]

oh yeah. Spouse's family commuted to Providence from Franklin for many years for work.

[susanewood]

Any of the towns down 495 would work well for you, including Bellingham, Plainville, Wrentham,
even Blackstone for a back-road commute to Providence. Attleboro and N. Attleboro might
be a happy medium location.