← Best suburbs near Boston

Marion vs Rochester

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
8/10
Commute to Boston
80 min
77 min
Median home price
$795K
$671K
Annual property tax
$8K
$9K
Walk score
42
12
Density
suburban
suburban

Summary: Marion leads in 3 of 6 metrics. It edges out on school rating, annual property tax, walk score. The best choice depends on your family's priorities.

Character & vibe

Marion

Tabor Academy and Sippican Harbor. Marion is the smallest but arguably most refined harbor village on Buzzards Bay. Tabor Academy creates an intellectual coastal community with extraordinary sailboat access.

historiccommunity

Rochester

Old Rochester Regional SD is excellent. Rochester has large parcels, horse farms, Snipatuit Pond, and proximity to Buzzards Bay. The most affordable exurban option for the Cape/Bay buyer who works remotely.

spacequietcommunity

Who should pick which?

Pick Marion if you...

  • ·Prioritize top-rated schools above all else
  • ·Value walkability and a pedestrian-friendly downtown
  • ·Want lower annual property taxes

Pick Rochester if you...

  • ·Want the shortest commute to Boston
  • ·Need to keep your home budget in check

Still deciding?

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

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