Have you ever dreamed of making a change and moving to another state? Perhaps you’ve thought about moving up north to Massachusetts.
Learning about the pros and cons of any state you are considering is crucial for a move. You need to know all the facts so you can make a balanced decision. So, without further ado, let’s get started.
Key Takeaways
- Massachusetts is one of the top states for healthcare.
- Everywhere you walk in this state is full of living history.
- The weather can be a little difficult to manage if you do not like winter.
- Massachusetts offers a superior educational system.
- The beaches of Massachusetts provide recreational fun in the sun.
- Massachusetts is a moderate crime state.
- The state is a perfect home for sports lovers.
- Massachusetts is paving the way in technology.
Massachusetts Is Home to Excellent Healthcare
Healthcare is at the forefront of our minds when choosing a state to call home. If you are concerned about having access to the best healthcare, look no further than Massachusetts. This state is rated number one in the country for healthcare.
Boston is the hub of healthcare in the state. Here, you will find excellent medical schools such as Boston University School of Medicine and Harvard Medical School.
The state also offers premier insurance plans, allowing around 97% of residents in Massachusetts to be covered with insurance in case of emergencies.
25 Fun things to do in Massachusetts
Freedom Trail: A 2.5-mile path through Boston that leads you to 16 historical sites, including the Boston Common, Paul Revere’s House, and the Old North Church.
Fenway Park: Home of the Boston Red Sox, this iconic baseball stadium offers tours and a chance to see a game in one of America’s oldest ballparks.
Museum of Fine Arts, Boston: One of the largest museums in the U.S., featuring an extensive collection of art from ancient to contemporary times.
Boston Public Garden: America’s first public botanical garden, known for its swan boats, beautiful landscapes, and statues.
Cape Cod: A popular summer destination with beautiful beaches, quaint towns, and opportunities for whale watching, biking, and seafood dining.
The Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum: An interactive museum where you can relive the famous event that sparked the American Revolution.
Salem: Known for its witch trials history, Salem offers museums, historic sites, and a charming downtown area.
Harvard University: Visit the prestigious campus in Cambridge, take a guided tour, and explore the Harvard Museum of Natural History.
Plimoth Patuxet Museums: Experience life in the 17th century at this living history museum, which includes a replica of the Mayflower and a Wampanoag Homesite.
New England Aquarium: Located on Boston’s waterfront, it features a giant ocean tank, penguins, sea lions, and interactive exhibits.
Martha’s Vineyard: An island off the coast of Cape Cod known for its beautiful beaches, charming towns, and outdoor activities.
Norman Rockwell Museum: Located in Stockbridge, this museum houses the largest collection of Norman Rockwell’s art.
The Berkshires: A region in western Massachusetts known for its outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and scenic beauty.
Boston Museum of Science: Offers interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and an IMAX theater, making it fun for all ages.
Nantucket: A charming island with pristine beaches, historic lighthouses, and cobblestone streets.
Old Sturbridge Village: A living history museum that recreates life in rural New England during the 1830s.
Whale Watching Tours: Depart from various locations, including Gloucester and Provincetown, to see majestic whales in their natural habitat.
Boston Common and Public Garden: The oldest city park in the U.S. and a beautiful adjacent garden, perfect for walking, picnicking, and swan boat rides.
Minute Man National Historical Park: Preserves and interprets the opening battle of the American Revolutionary War.
The House of the Seven Gables: Located in Salem, this historic site inspired Nathaniel Hawthorne’s famous novel.
Tanglewood: The summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra in the Berkshires, offering concerts and cultural events.
Six Flags New England: An amusement park in Agawam with thrilling rides, a water park, and family-friendly attractions.
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum: Located in Boston, it offers exhibits on the life and legacy of the 35th U.S. President.
Boston Harbor Islands: Explore the islands by ferry, enjoy hiking, picnicking, and historical sites.
Worcester Art Museum: Features a diverse collection of art, including works from ancient times to contemporary pieces.
The State Is Full of Rich History
Because Massachusetts was one of the original 13 colonies, it is full of history you will not find in other states.
Massachusetts is often nicknamed the Old Colony because it is known as the first landing area for the Mayflower. This is where the pilgrims first embarked into new American territory.
Everywhere you walk in Massachusetts will bring pieces of the past. Here, the Salem Witch Trials occurred between 1692 and 1693.
This is also the state where the Boston Massacre and Boston Tea Party occurred.
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The Weather in Massachusetts Can Be Intimidating for Some
Summers in Massachusetts are hot and humid, making them uncomfortable. During the winter months, Massachusetts becomes a winter wonderland, with temperatures often dipping below freezing.
The national average for snowfall is around 28 inches, but in Massachusetts, that number soars to 51 inches a year! If you don’t like snow, do not move to Massachusetts, or you will be in for a rude awakening.
Massachusetts Offers Superior Educational Opportunities
Massachusetts is home to one of the top educational systems in the country, including public schools and higher education.
Parents who are moving to the state will be happy to learn the educational system is superior, and Massachusetts regularly rates higher in math and reading than any other state in the US.
Higher Education opportunities abound in Massachusetts. At present, the state is home to 50 higher learning institutions. Some of the top selections include the following.
- Harvard University
- Amherst College
- Salem State University
- University of Massachusetts Boston
- University of Massachusetts Amherst
Massachusetts Offers Beautiful Beaches
If you love spending time in the sunshine and on a beach, Massachusetts will not disappoint. The state offers both freshwater lakes and sandy beaches for your enjoyment.
The state boasts over 200 miles of sandy coastline with 15 saltwater ocean beaches and 50 inland freshwater options. Massachusetts makes spending time on the water easier than you ever realized.
The following are some of the top beaches in the state.
- Chatham Lighthouse Beach
- Race Point Beach
- Crane Beach
- Singing Beach
- Coast Guard Beach
Massachusetts Has a Moderate Crime Level
Most people these days are more concerned about crime than ever before, especially in states where it is rising. Unfortunately, Massachusetts has a moderate crime level.
The violent crime levels are lower than in many other states. Thankfully, property crime is slowly decreasing in the state with a combined police and community effort.
While Massachusetts is far from idyllic with its crime rate, an aggressive police force and determined citizens help to keep everyone safe. There are some cities safer than others in the state, so research carefully before moving.
Massachusetts Helps Sports Lovers Unite
Do you love sports? If so, Massachusetts may be calling your name. Did you know the state of Massachusetts has an amazing five professional sports teams?
- Boston Celtics
- Boston Red Sox
- New England Patriots
- New England Revolution
- Boston Bruins
You may also be surprised to learn the sport of basketball was invented in the state in 1891. There is a sport for everyone in Massachusetts. You will enjoy sports like basketball, football, hockey, and baseball in the state.
Massachusetts Is Leading the Way in Technology
Massachusets has one of the best economies in the United States, in part, because of its technology-driven industries. The state has become one of the top areas for technology-centered corporations to set up shop.
If you are interested in a career in this industry, Massachusetts is certainly an epicenter that can help you advance.
Everything Massachusetts does, it seems to do it well. The state is at the forefront of medicine and education. These two driving forces are what have made Massachusetts the state it is today.
Massachusetts Welcomes All
Some northern states have the unfair title of being unapproachable to outsiders, but Massachusetts is not one of them. This state offers a welcoming atmosphere that allows everyone to feel at home.
There is so much to see, do, and experience in this coastal state. While some people simply come for a visit, many end up not wanting to leave and begin to call it home.
Is Massachusetts Right For You?
Massachusetts is one of the top states in the United States. If your goal is to live in a state that offers advanced healthcare and education, along with plenty of options for entertainment, Massachusetts should certainly be near the top of your list.
Before moving to the state, make sure to research carefully and learn which city will offer you the kind of lifestyle you seek. No matter what area you decide to settle in, you are sure to enjoy living in the great state of Massachusetts.