Moving to Greater Boston :: Milton

January 30, 2018

Maybe you’ve been in Boston for years, but you’re now having kids and looking to relocate. Maybe you’re planning a move to the Boston area from another city in the U.S. or abroad, and you’re trying to make sense of your options. Whatever the case, Boston Moms is here to help with a handy guide to some popular towns in the area! We’ll tell you about the vibe, income levels, schools, and fun insider info to help you figure out the best place for you.

(Also check out our guides to East Arlington, North Attleboro, Salem, Somerville, and the South End!)

How we got here

When I first met my husband, he lived in New Hampshire, and I lived in Milton. He was attracted to my sense of humor and my determination to consume as much of life as I could. I was attracted to his love affair with the great outdoors, and his commitment to staying active. As our relationship progressed, the conversation naturally turned to updating our living arrangements. For me, the decision was clear — I was staying in Milton. For him, an outdoorsman from the woods of the north, moving to the “city” was a huge obstacle. He eventually caved. Many years have passed, and now our children are thriving in this cozy Milton town. Recently, to my delight, my husband commented, “I will always prefer the north, but of all the places I could have moved to in Massachusetts, I am so glad you lived in Milton.” Here’s why.

Vibe :: Suburban

Milton is truly the suburbs. Most of the homes are single-family, but there are a few multi-family homes and a newer luxury condo development in town. Crime rates are extremely low compared to the national average, thanks to the work of the Milton Police Department. There is no shortage of family-focused activities around town. Last Halloween, our family participated in the Monster Dash 5K and Fun Run, for example. At the school level and the town level, you will have your choice of low-cost activities.

Learn :: Immersive learning

Our daughter speaks French fluently, thanks to the 30-year-old French immersion program in Milton. While I don’t speak the language myself, the sound of “Harry Potter a Lecole des Sorciers” being read out loud by my 8-year-old is like music to my ears. The schools in Milton appropriately challenge their students while also fostering community programs that prioritize family values.

Whether you choose the French or the Spanish/STEM program (robotics built into the weekly curriculum), students in this district consistently out-perform the state, according to national academic test scores. The town has four walkable elementary schools that feed into one middle school and one high school. In addition, there are a number of private school options in town, including Milton Academy.

Play :: The town is your oyster

Milton Neponset River Trail At just over 13 square miles in area, you wouldn’t think Milton would have so many activities. But the town is packed with something special for every interest. Join the Blue Hills Cycling Club if you enjoy road racing or want to learn how. They meet every morning at the town gazebo. Stop in at Coffee Break Cafe for a gingerbread latte after completing a five-mile morning jog along the Lower Neponset River Trail. Learn to paint at the Milton Art Center, a nonprofit community art center that is run by 50 Milton resident volunteers. Experience the heat of the Friday night lights while attending a Milton High School football game (go Wildcats!). Take up skiing at the Blue Hills ski area if you aren’t afraid of the cold! Blue Hills Reservation, a well-maintained 6,000-acre state park, is right in our backyard. From a boy scout camp to a hockey rink, you can learn to mountain bike, ski, ice skate, and swim, all in one town!

Refresh :: Focus and regroup

To lead a life of intention, you’ve got to build in some introspection. Whether these moments of self-awareness take place in a spiritual house or in a yoga studio, Milton provides welcoming options. Kids yoga on Sundays is where my little ones practice focus and belly breathing! At ages 11, 9, and 3, they aren’t under a ton of stress, but it is never too early to learn to clear your mind.

The Milton Interfaith Clergy Association hosts thoughtful, diverse, inclusive programs throughout the year. There are always community-based gatherings aimed at showing support to other communities affected by tragedy.

Go :: Wheels needed

Whether by bike, by car, or by train, you will need some sort of transportation to get around town. There are a few small convenience stores in case you need a last-minute item, but generally, you need to travel in order to shop. Overall, you could comfortably meet all your family’s needs in Milton. There is a Beth Israel satellite hospital, a fully stocked local library, and MBTA access straight into downtown Boston. Milton offers a plethora of options for your family to enjoy. I’ve convinced a mountain-loving, bike-riding outdoorsman to move to this small town — hopefully, I have convinced you, too!