Downtown Framingham, Massachusetts

Best Places to Live in the US in 2022 Sponsored by: eXp RealtyeXp Realty

UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.

Framingham, MA is the #77 Best City to Live in the USA

Street view of Framingham, MA
iStock.com/DenisTangneyJr
Framingham, MA
Quality of Life
Liv Score

605
How We Calculate Our Data
Civics 56
Demographics 71
Economy 61
Education 44
Health 61
Housing 53
Infrastructure 52
Amenities 51

Why Framingham is one of the best cities to live in

Just a 30-minute commute away from downtown Boston, the small town of Framingham, MA, has left a big mark on health care research. The famed Framingham Heart Study, which has been ongoing for nearly 75 years, has led to significant breakthroughs in understanding, treating and preventing risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Healthier hearts are just one reason to fall in love with this beautiful township in the eastern half of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. 

Founded in 1700, Framingham has three nationally recognized historic districts and nearly 300 historic homes. Downtown features charming shops, great restaurants with a mix of global cuisine, cultural attractions and a commuter rail stop, making the city one of the best places to live in the U.S. An educated, culturally diverse community, nearly half of the residents over the age of 25 have a bachelor’s degree or higher and more than 20% have earned a graduate degree. From urban living to suburban communities, residents have plenty of options to suit their lifestyles, and all offer easy access to parks, beaches and outdoor activities.

What are Framingham’s major industries and employers?

A major center for health care, life sciences and technology, Framingham is the headquarters for Bose Corporation, Staples, TJX (TJ Maxx and sister companies) and Boston Heart Diagnostics. Other major employers include Framingham State University, MetroWest Medical Center and Sanofi-Genzyme.

What are the major colleges and universities in Framingham?

Framingham State University

What is the weather like in Framingham? 

This northeastern city sees sunshine about two-thirds of the year and precipitation the remaining third. The warm season lasts three to four months, as does the cold season. The snowiest month is January, with an average of 11 inches of snowfall.  

What is there to do outside in Framingham?

Featuring over 800 acres of parkland, Callahan State Park is a popular place for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and fishing in the warm weather and cross-country skiing in the winter. Four-legged friends enjoy the dog park, where they can swim at the pond and play along the beach-like shore.

Framingham, MA is Remote-Ready

What makes Framingham a great place for remote workers?

Framingham is a haven for remote workers. More than 90% of the city’s residents have internet speeds of 1,000 Mbps, which means it’s easy to get connected. Additionally, workers can take advantage of several coworking spaces around town, including Framingham MakerSpace, which is dedicated to creating community and providing shared tools and workspace to encourage and enable its members to explore their interests and work towards their goals. 

What Locals Love in Framingham, MA

What is the best local bookstore in Framingham?

Pow! Zap! Wow! Comic book lovers can’t get enough of Bedrock Comics, with reviewers consistently commenting on the selection and excellent service. In addition to popular comic series, the independently owned store features collectible items for enthusiasts.

How do you spend a weekend in Framingham?

Escape the every day in a sea of color at the Danforth Art Museum. Located on the university campus, the museum features permanent and traveling exhibits showcasing works in various styles and media, as well as fun art classes for all ages and community events throughout the year.

What can you do for free in Framingham?

Residents have free access to three city-owned beaches typically open from mid-June to mid-August. Head to Learned Pond, Saxonville Beach or Waushakum Pond for fun in the sun.

What’s the best way to spend happy hour in Framingham?

Enjoy well-crafted cocktails and elevated comfort food at Bourbon’s Kitchen & Cocktails, located in a neighborhood setting just minutes from downtown.

What’s something only locals know about Framingham?

REO Speedwagon lead guitarist Dave Amato, actress Nancy Travis, country music singer Jo Dee Messina, and teacher and astronaut Christa McAuliffe, who died in the Challenger disaster, all hail from Framingham.

Is Framingham, MA a good place to live?

Historic charm, a diverse community and excellent health care make Framingham a best place to live in Massachusetts.

Thinking of Moving to Framingham?

What is the Framingham, MA Real Estate Market Like?

Acquiring real estate in Framingham is an appealing option for those who work in Boston but want to live outside the city. As a result, the homes for sale in Framingham, MA, have a median sale price of $618K, higher than the national average but still lower than Boston’s average. Families love the peace of the residential areas north of Route 9, in neighborhoods like Saxonville or Nobscot Village, not far from downtown, and the buzzing commercial areas of The Golden Triangle. For condo living, the 20-somethings are loving the Chapel Hill units, with water views of Foss Reservoir. For assistance, contact a local real estate agent.

Quick Facts About Framingham, MA

Average Commute
23.24
Median Home Value
$539,343
Med. Household Income
$90,879
Total Population
72,433
Walk Score
39
Median Property Tax
$6,137

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