Nestled by the Berkshire mountains near the Connecticut River, Westfield, MA, is a small suburb of Springfield with a rich history. Known as Whip City, the area is home to more than 40,500 residents who enjoy the abundant nature and community spirit the city offers.
So if you’re wondering if Westfield, MA, is a good place to live, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking at homes for sale in Westfield, apartments for rent, or are just curious about what the area has to offer, this Redfin guide is for you. To give you a taste, here are 10 pros and cons to consider before moving to Westfield, MA.
5 pros of living in Westfield, MA
There’s a lot to love about living in Westfield, from rich history to easy access to nature. Here are five of the best reasons to make the move.
1. Affordable cost of living
A great reason to move to Westfield, MA, is its low cost of living compared to other US cities, especially nearby metros like Boston and Worcester. For example, the median sale price for a home in Westfield is $330,000, well below the national median and far below prices in Boston ($810,000) and Worcester ($422,000). Apartments are also cheaper than average, with the standard one-bedroom unit costing around $1,892.
The city offers a range of housing options, from historic homes downtown to small homes and apartments for rent throughout the city. Property taxes and utility costs are generally lower than the national average, making Westfield an attractive option for those looking to relocate.
2. Recreational activities
Situated in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains and within Pioneer Valley, Westfield offers abundant outdoor activities all year. You can enjoy hiking, biking, or skiing, depending on the season and your preference. Popular day trip locations include Robinson State Park, Shatterack Mountain, and C.M Gardner State Park.
If you’re looking for parks within the city, Stanley Park is a great all-purpose choice, featuring over 300-acres of space, including gardens, athletic fields, trails, and a wildlife sanctuary.
3. Community events
Westfield fosters a strong sense of community through its annual events like the Westfield Fair and the Taste of the World Festival, which feature local agricultural exhibits, craft shows, live music, and more. The city’s largest community event organization, Westfield on Weekends, also offers events throughout the year, including pumpkin carvings, summer recitals, holiday pop-up markets, and much more. Whip City Brewfest is also a popular event during the summers. No matter your preference, you’re sure to find something to love in Westfield.
4. Historic charm
Founded in 1669, Westfield is one of the oldest towns in Massachusetts and is steeped in history that’s visible throughout the city. This is especially prominent downtown, where there are dozens of beautifully preserved 18th-century buildings housing local businesses and restaurants. Living here allows you to be a part of that history and enjoy the unique architectural beauty.
The city is also home to notable historic landmarks, including the Dewey House, which dates back to 1735, and the Old Burying Ground, which has gravestones dating back to 1686.
5. Proximity to larger cities
Westfield’s location is a significant advantage. It’s near larger cities such as Springfield and Hartford, making it possible to commute for work or access wider amenities, entertainment options, and transportation networks not available in Westfield itself. This means you can enjoy the benefits of a suburban lifestyle and a lively urban nightlife without driving for hours.
5 cons of living in Westfield, MA
While Westfield has plenty of positives, there are a few downsides as well. Here are five to keep in mind before making the move.
1. Winter weather
Like many parts of New England, Westfield experiences longer winter seasons with regular snowfall, mostly from mid-December through February. January is the coldest month of the year, with high temperatures averaging around 33 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’re not a fan of cold weather or you find snow inconvenient, you may find the winters in Westfield challenging. This weather can affect commuting, outdoor activities, and overall comfort levels.
2. Limited nightlife
For those who thrive on nightlife and late-night entertainment, Westfield might feel quiet. As a relatively small city, it lacks the variety and vibrancy of nightlife you would find in larger cities with a greater selection of clubs, late-night restaurants, and entertainment venues. Luckily, there are options in nearby Springfield and Hartford which are great for weekend trips or a longer night out.
If you are in the mood for a local night at the bar, however, you still have a few options, including Hutghi’s at the Nook and The Whip.
3. Public transportation
Served by the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority (PVTA), Westfield, MA has relatively limited public transit options, especially compared to larger cities like Boston. However, it does provide easy access to Springfield, Holyoke, and Westfield State University. If you don’t have a personal vehicle, this could make commuting for errands or work more challenging, as the bus routes don’t reach much of the city.
Luckily, Westfield is very walkable, with a Walk Score of 76, meaning you can accomplish many errands on foot. However, for longer trips, you’ll likely need a car or bike.
4. Job opportunities
Many people live in Westfield and commute to nearby cities like Springfield and Hartford. As such, the local job market in Westfield might not be as abundant or varied as in larger cities. Depending on your profession or industry, you might have to commute to a nearby city for work, or you might find job hunting in your specific field more competitive and challenging.
5. Limited growth and development
While some people appreciate the small-town charm of Westfield, others might view the slower pace of growth and development as a negative. In fact, the city declined in population from 2010 to 2020. And compared to larger cities, there may be fewer new businesses, industries, or housing developments. This can limit opportunities for investment, socializing, and shopping and dining experiences.
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