← Best suburbs near Boston

Methuen vs North Andover

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

School rating
7/10
9/10
Commute to Boston
60 min
61 min
Median home price
$606K
$787K
Annual property tax
$7K
$9K
Walk score
42
40
Density
suburban
suburban

Summary: Methuen leads in 4 of 6 metrics. It edges out on commute to boston, median home price, annual property tax, walk score. The best choice depends on your family's priorities.

Character & vibe

Methuen

Lawrence's residential neighbor. Methuen has newer subdivisions, affordable homes, and a diverse community. The Loop mall and Route 93 make this practical for both Boston and New Hampshire access.

community

North Andover

North Andover SD is excellent and the community has a quieter, more residential character than Andover. Great Forest preserve trails, Merrimack River access, and better value than its famous neighbor.

communityspacequiet

Who should pick which?

Pick Methuen if you...

  • ·Want the shortest commute to Boston
  • ·Need to keep your home budget in check
  • ·Value walkability and a pedestrian-friendly downtown
  • ·Want lower annual property taxes

Pick North Andover if you...

  • ·Prioritize top-rated schools above all else
  • ·Drawn to the community character

Still deciding?

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

Talk to Burbia →