Moving from the City to the Suburbs: Why NH and MA Buyers Are Making the Switch

In recent years, more homebuyers have been trading the hustle and bustle of city living for the space, comfort, and community of the suburbs. This trend is especially strong in New England, where buyers from Boston and surrounding cities are looking north to New Hampshire and west to Massachusetts suburbs. The pandemic accelerated this shift, but the appeal of suburban living has continued, driven by lifestyle changes, remote work opportunities, and the desire for more space.

Space to Grow
One of the biggest reasons buyers move from the city to the suburbs is space. In Boston, condos and apartments often come with limited square footage and little to no outdoor areas. Suburbs in Southern NH—like Hollis, Amherst, and Bedford—or Northern MA—like Andover, Chelmsford, and Westford—offer larger homes, bigger yards, and room for families to grow. 

Affordability and Value
While suburban homes come with larger price tags than city condos, they often provide better long-term value. In Southern NH, buyers are especially attracted to the tax benefits of no state income or sales tax, which helps offset higher property taxes. Massachusetts suburbs may be more expensive upfront, but they offer excellent school systems, cultural amenities, and strong property appreciation. For many families, the combination of space and investment potential makes suburban living worth the move.

Remote and Hybrid Work Options
The rise of remote and hybrid work has made commuting less of a daily concern. Buyers who once needed to be in Boston five days a week now only commute a few times a month, making towns like Nashua, Merrimack, or Andover far more attractive. With this flexibility, buyers can prioritize lifestyle over proximity to the office, choosing suburban homes that offer more comfort and balance.

Quality of Life
Beyond space and affordability, many buyers are drawn to the sense of community and quality of life that suburban towns provide. Neighborhoods, strong school districts, and easy access to parks, hiking trails, and local events make suburban living appealing. Whether it’s enjoying apple picking in Hollis, attending community festivals in Chelmsford, or hiking trails in Amherst, suburban life offers opportunities for connection and recreation that city living often lacks.

Making the Move
The shift from city to suburb isn’t just a housing choice—it’s a lifestyle decision. Buyers are prioritizing time with loved ones, outdoor living, and community involvement, all of which are easier to achieve in the suburbs. For sellers in suburban NH and MA, this trend means continued strong demand from city buyers looking for more space and value. For buyers, the move represents a chance to create a home that fits both their needs today and their goals for the future.