Most longtime residents of Boston's North Shore say life is practically idyllic. Beautiful homes, access to the beach, and access to Boston typically top the list of praises, but the list is a long one. And among North Shore communities, Swampscott, MA has a lot to offer. Swampscott is a relatively small town with a population of 13,787 as of the 2010 U.S. Census. The town feels cozy and tight-knit enough to be well-removed from the hubbub of Beantown, but thanks to a commuter rail station that runs directly into North Boston, it's easy to get in and out. The average commute time for Swampscott residents is just about 30 minutes, a respectable number for a cozy beachfront suburb.
In the early 1900's, Swampscott was the resort destination for the wealthy who wanted to get away from the city and kick up their heels. Today, the town isn't much of a tourist destination, but it still has the laid-back feel of a place you want to sink into for awhile. Beach Bluff Park offers easily accessible public beach access. Stand up paddleboarding and ocean kayaking are popular pastimes, as well as taking a leisurely stroll on the beach, catching a sunrise over the Atlantic, or settling in to build sand castles. For those who'd prefer to be out on the water rather than puttering along its edge, sailing, boating, and offshore fishing are all great activities for families as well.
You'll find plenty of highly-rated restaurants in Swampscott, offering everything from fine Italian cuisine to mouthwatering burgers with home fries. The Blue Ox, a tavern/eatery that features fresh seafood, burgers, and unique cocktails, is a local favorite, rated 4.5 stars on Yelp out of well over 300 rankings. Other favorite spots include G Bar & Kitchen and Yan's China Bistro. Neighboring Lynn also has an expansive platter of culinary offerings, so you'll have plenty of options within a few minutes' drive.
If nightlife is a priority for you, be warned that you'll have to travel to find popular clubs. Swampscott offers pubs and classic bars along with several upscale restaurant-bar lounges, but the community's ethos tends to stay on the quieter side. If you want to go out for a pub crawl or a night of dancing, you'll have to drive or take the T further south toward downtown Boston or Cambridge.
Swampscott's home types run the gamut from modest colonials built around the turn of the 20th century to impressive $5.9 million mansions on Galloupes Point. The majority of homes in the area are owner-occupied single-family residences, typically on the smaller side. The median home price is currently $499,000, but you'll find many homes significantly lower and higher than that number. Pricier homes tend to be grouped around the coast, where ocean views go for a premium and a quieter, more rural feel gives the neighborhood an unmistakably resort-like vibe.
Western Swampscott is more densely packed with smaller homes on smaller lots, forming close neighborhoods and an often very tight-knit community. Many of these neighborhoods also contain larger homes that have been converted into multi-apartment units which sell as condos. Houses and condos on Swamscott's western side tend to be less expensive--and closer to public transportation, which is a huge advantage for many.
Though there are parks and fitness facilities in Swampscott, it doesn't offer as many amenities as some other suburbs when it comes to well-maintained jogging paths and access to large green spaces or reservations. With that said, the beach nearby does provide opportunities for those who love kayaking or stand up paddleboarding. Never done either? It's not hard to learn. A nearby rock gym and plenty of fully-equipped traditional gyms make it easy to stop in for a (fun!) workout before or after work.
The Swampscott Farmer's Market provides fresh, locally-sourced food to locals every Sunday from June through October. You'll also find local artisans, baked goods, and other crafters at the market, which is a longtime favorite among residents. A smattering of vegan, vegetarian, and organic restaurants and grocers also make it easy to source fuel for a healthy lifestyle, no matter what flavors you prefer.
Still not sure whether Swampscott is the perfect choice? Taking time to explore it as well as some other Boston suburbs is a smart step. You should also take the time to contact a local agent. Movoto agents actually live and work in the areas you're researching, so they'll be able to give you the rundown on the properties you're considering from both a professional and personal point of view.
Having an experienced agent in your corner can make all the difference between a successful, fun home search and an exhausting, stress-inducing process that leaves you in need of a full-body massage. Make it easier on yourself and don't hesitate to take your time to explore and look at all your options. You won't regret it!
