Noise levels in Bedford (Waltham, Lexington: schools, places to live, price)

[ofrash]

Hi all,

So we're considering moving to Bedford. The most appealing (price-wise) option right now is pretty close to Hanscom air force base (around Summer street).

In the map it looks pretty close to the airport, but more than that- since we currently live in Waltham, we still occasionally hear the airplanes going to the base.

So, any idea about the noise levels in the area? Do they have certain restrictions (like, no takes offs/landings after 10pm)? We do plan to go sit there a while and ask the neighbors, but would love to hear some opinions and experiences.

Thanks!

[Parsec]

They have nearly 200,000 takeoff/landings and get several thousand noise complaints every year. I wouldn't live anywhere near the base if I were you. What about Burlington? Much more affordable and slightly better schools I think.

[puffle]

I lived off Wood Rd. and Hartwell Ave. i Lexington and it sounded like WWIII when planes took off. You get use to it after awhile. Depending on how close in Bedford, might not be as bad as where we were.

[commandingspirit]

I grew up in Lexington but have lived away for 17 years. Now when I go back to visit, I definately hear the noise of the planes. But then again we are a military family so have lived close to bases that had lots of jets. It doesn't really bother me. Lexington and Bedford are LOVELY places to live. Bedford is just as nice a town, and has lower housing costs. Good luck!