← Best suburbs near Boston

Amherst, NH vs Bedford, NH

Two popular MA suburbs of Boston, side by side. Here's how they compare on the metrics that matter most to families.

School rating
9/10
9/10
Commute to Boston
81 min
73 min
Median home price
$580K
$620K
Annual property tax
$9K
$10K
Walk score
15
18
Density
suburban
suburban

Summary: It's a close match — both towns lead in 2 metrics each. The best choice depends on your family's priorities.

Character & vibe

Amherst, NH

Colonial town with a classic New England village green and some of NH's best schools — Souhegan Cooperative HS has a strong academic and arts reputation. Larger lots, historic homes, and a quintessentially New England character. For families who want the best NH can offer in education and community.

historictop-schoolscommunityrural

Bedford, NH

New Hampshire's most sought-after suburb — Bedford High School consistently ranks as one of New England's best public schools. Executive homes on multi-acre lots, a planned town feel, and no state income tax. The commute to Boston is 65-75 minutes; this is executive suburb territory for hybrid workers who need to commute 2-3 days.

luxurytop-schoolssuburbancommunity

Who should pick which?

Pick Amherst, NH if you...

  • ·Need to keep your home budget in check
  • ·Want lower annual property taxes

Pick Bedford, NH if you...

  • ·Want the shortest commute to Boston
  • ·Value walkability and a pedestrian-friendly downtown

Still deciding?

Burbia scores both Amherst, NH and Bedford, NH — and every other town in the Boston Area — based on your specific commute, budget, and priorities. Not a generic list.

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