Andover has a habit of topping lists, and for renters the reasons are concrete: two commuter rail stations inside the town, one of the strongest public school districts in Massachusetts, a downtown you can actually walk, and more protected conservation land than many places twice its size. It sits roughly 21 miles north of Boston at the junction of Routes 93 and 495.
How strong are the schools?
Andover Public Schools serve about 5,400 students across five elementary schools, three middle schools and Andover High, and the district consistently ranks among the top in Massachusetts. Between that and the historic Phillips Academy in town, education is very much part of Andover's identity.
How does the commute work?
The Haverhill Line stops in town at both downtown Andover and Ballardvale, putting Boston's North Station about 40-46 minutes away with no drive to the station. Driving is roughly 21 miles on Route 93, about 35-50 minutes depending on traffic, and the junction of Routes 93 and 495 sits right at the town line.
Where do renters get outdoors?
Harold Parker State Forest spans 3,000 acres with 35 miles of trails and 11 ponds, and Ward Reservation adds 704 acres including Holt Hill, the highest point in Essex County. The AVIS trail system and Bay Circuit Trail weave protected open space right through town, so walkers rarely run out of road.
What is the downtown like?
Two blocks of Main Street hold coffee shops, cafes and local restaurants, with the commuter rail station right at the edge of it. The sense is of a real town center, not a strip of parking lots, and the surrounding historic homes keep the streetscape handsome.