← Best suburbs near Boston

Middleton vs North Reading

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

School rating
8/10
9/10
Commute to Boston
54 min
53 min
Median home price
$858K
$795K
Annual property tax
$10K
$10K
Walk score
22
28
Density
suburban
suburban

Summary: North Reading leads in 5 of 6 metrics. It edges out on school rating, commute to boston, median home price, annual property tax, walk score. The best choice depends on your family's priorities.

Character & vibe

Middleton

Howe-Manning Regional SD serves this quiet North Shore suburb. Large lots, rural character, and affordable prices relative to Andover and North Andover. A quiet family community on the Route 114 corridor.

communityspacequiet

North Reading

North Reading SD is top 20 in Massachusetts. Large lots, very quiet character, and Reading SD excellence nearby. A well-kept secret among north suburban buyers who want excellent schools without North Shore prices.

communityquietspace

Who should pick which?

Pick Middleton if you...

  • ·Drawn to the community character

Pick North Reading if you...

  • ·Prioritize top-rated schools above all else
  • ·Want the shortest commute to Boston
  • ·Need to keep your home budget in check
  • ·Value walkability and a pedestrian-friendly downtown

Still deciding?

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

Talk to Burbia →