This guide to Andover covers the schools, the commute, the conservation land and the downtown. Evan Russell manages rental properties in this town and across the communities north of Boston, and he keeps this page current as the local market changes.
Andover is a town of about 37,000 people in Essex County, roughly 21 to 25 miles north of Boston at the junction of Routes 93 and 495. It pairs one of the state's strongest public school districts with two commuter rail stations, a walkable downtown and thousands of acres of protected trails, ponds and reservation land.
Andover in
Andover Public Schools serve about 5,400 students across five elementary schools, three middle schools and Andover High, among the top-rated districts in the state.
Two Haverhill Line stations, downtown Andover and Ballardvale, reach North Station in about 40-46 minutes. Driving to Boston is roughly 21 miles, about 35-50 minutes depending on traffic.
Harold Parker State Forest spans 3,000 acres with 35 miles of trails and 11 ponds; Ward Reservation adds 704 acres and Holt Hill, the highest point in Essex County, with the Bay Circuit Trail nearby.
A historic Merrimack Valley town of about 37,000, built around a walkable downtown, a legendary school district and thousands of acres of protected open space woven through the neighborhoods.
Questions Renters
How strong are the schools?
Andover Public Schools serve about 5,400 students across five K-5 elementary schools, three middle schools and Andover High, and the district ranks among the top in Massachusetts on state measures. Families move here for that reputation as much as for any single amenity.
How does the commute work?
The Haverhill Line stops right in town at downtown Andover and Ballardvale, putting Boston's North Station about 40-46 minutes away. Driving is roughly 21 miles via Route 93, about 35-50 minutes depending on the clock, and Routes 93 and 495 meet 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 the Trustees' 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.
Locals'
Looking for a rental in Andover?
Availability in Andover changes weekly. Browse the live listings, or send Evan a note and he will point you to the right place: the right building, the right street, the right commute.
Live listings open at er7139.realscout.me in a new tab. Inventory changes weekly, so check back often.