Medford
Just down the Mystic River from Downtown Boston, Medford is a booming up and comer both in real estate and entertainment. From the numerous town squares, acclaimed bars and historic sites, Medford really is a diamond being uncovered!
School District Rank: 74th
Best Public High Schools in Greater Boston 2023
Property Tax Rate: .85% or $8.52 per $1,000
About the City of Medford
Settled in 1630, originally as part of Charlestown, formerly known as "Mystic", the city of Medford is thriving with history and life. It is even claimed that the Christmas song "Jingle Bells" was written here, though that fact is disputed by many other towns across America. The Peter Tufts House on Riverside Avenue is thought to be the oldest building in New England. Medford has been home to many famous celebrities including Amelia Earhart and Elizabeth Short (better known as the Black Dahlia).
Medford's population skyrocketed in the early 1900s and has remained mostly stagnant ever since. In the most recent census it was determined that a little under half of the homes in Medford were occupied by families, making every neighborhood family-friendly, though the area is still predominated by married couples without children under 18. Home values in Medford have gone up in the past few years with the new economic and residential developments in the area, making the median home value just under $590,000. Medford's public schools have drastically improved over these years as well, adding to the value of the family-friendly hub. Medford is also home to Tuft's University.
There are many things in Medford for you and your family to enjoy, including the various reservations across the city and don't forget about Legoland Discovery, just one town over! Medford is home to some of the best bars in the area and has plenty of activity at each one to keep you having fun!
"The Fells"
The Middlesex Fells Reservation, coined by locals as "The Fells" spans across a few local towns in the county including Medford, Melrose, Malden and Stoneham. The state parks surround two inactive reservoirs, Spot Pond and The Fells Reservoir, and three active reservoirs that supply the Wachusett Water System. Many locals enjoy swimming and kayaking at Spot Pond and it is a common and beloved family spot in Medford.
Local Bars and restaurants
Perfect for a date or a night out with friends, the local bars and restaurants and booming with life! Visit a jazz bar or a brewery, eat a lobster roll or some award winning clam chowder from various local sources, and just have a good time with all that the City of Medford has to offer. From vibrant people, to strong drinks, to good food, you can't go wrong with a night out in Medford!
Recommended restaurants
Snappy Patty's Burgers - fun, unpretentious burger joint
Bistro 5 - quaint, upscale Italian dining
La Cascia's Bakery - local favorite on Main Street. Try the cannolis!
Shopping
Station Landing - upscale shopping center with hair salons, ice cream, clothing stores and more!
Davis Square, quaint town center with local shops and restaurants
Tourist Spots
The Fells - local reservation containing 5 active and inactive bodies of water
Legoland Discovery - small theme park located at Assembly Row, just one town over
Royall House and Slave Quarters - historical tour of the family home of one of the largest slaveholders in Massachusetts history
Hotels
Local hotels are primarily owned by American chains, such as Marriott and Hilton