Relocating to MA - thinking about Chelmsford. Thoughts?

[missionhill]

Originally Posted by Remy11

I was actually thinking of Georgetown specifically when I wrote that. There was one in town when I was there, but it has since closed. Agree that bookstores seem to be a thing of the past. I know Georgetown has a cute tea shop called Hatter’s where people go to read tho!

Salem might be the only place left that has one. Oh, actually, Newburyport has Jabberwocky Books.

One or two bookstores in Concord. Chelmsford is next to Lowell which has great downtown for walks, restaurants, things to do, occasional festivals.

[bizcuit]

Originally Posted by Remy11

I was actually thinking of Georgetown specifically when I wrote that. There was one in town when I was there, but it has since closed. Agree that bookstores seem to be a thing of the past. I know Georgetown has a cute tea shop called Hatter’s where people go to read tho!

Salem might be the only place left that has one. Oh, actually, Newburyport has Jabberwocky Books.

We have a couple here in Northampton, but I always wonder how much business they actually do and how they are able to pay (what I'm sure is) expensive rent.

[Idontwanttocheckmymessage]

Originally Posted by Cake4life

My family is strongly considering a move to Chelmsford but would love some local opinions. We understand the schools are good there and there seems to be more inventory than some of the surrounding towns, like Westford and Littleton. I love the idea of a smallish, tight knit community that is welcoming to new residents. I would love to have a bit of a walkable, charming downtown with at least one good coffee shop, restaurants, and an independent bookstore. Also love a farmer's market and a Main Street 4th of July parade or some kind of town festival. Curious about the charm factor of Chelmsford. Would be willing to reconsider charm for a lovely town that is a great place to raise a family in. TIA for any insights!

When I read this post describing the attributes that you’re looking for in a town, I was like….hmmm….Chelmsford? I’m sorry to say that you’re not describing Chelmsford.

That being said, though Chelmsford does not have the qualities you describe, it is a very family oriented town and always has been (we’ve had family there for years). It’s a solid choice of towns to raise a family in, especially if other more “charming” towns are out of your price range. Chelmsford has many family neighborhoods with wide streets for kids to play, ride bikes, etc. Ball fields for little league, a rail trail, a small pond to swim in. Quintessential suburban vibe, leaning more rural in some areas. Lots of “starter” homes, some newer construction. Down to earth folks, no snob factor in play. Somewhat blue collar roots, but now pretty solidly white collar.

But … you just have to be ok with the “small strip mall” downtown aesthetic vs. the “charming Main Street” vibe. It sounds like you might be?

On the other hand, are you locked into Chelmsford because of your budget?
Are you locked into Metrowest because of a work commute?

If you are not constrained by budget/commute and are free to roam, your post better describes Concord. Or, the Northshore towns that were listed by a previous poster, above. Newburyport in particular fits the bill. Newburyport checks every single item on your list, right down to having the Jabberwocky, an awesome independent bookstore. However, it will be MUCH more expensive than Chelmsford. Any town that ticks these boxes will be more expensive than Chelmsford.

Quaint and charming comes with a huge pricetag. And, sometimes a very, very long commute.

P.S. Of course, the Berkshires max out on charm and the towns there are more affordable. I didn’t discuss because that’s an entirely different part of the state and not known for strength of their schools.