Gloucester vs Newburyport (Boston, Essex: real estate, apartments, rent)

[jmlw]

I've been living in Boston metro area in apartments for over 10 years and would like to relocate to an ocean town with a much more laid back vibe, with good school systems and away from the party crowd. I am approaching my mid 30s and my boyfriend and I would like to get engaged, move away in a town that we could eventually 'try' to buy real estate from eventually, where we can start a family and want to stay forever and ever.

I think in terms of coastal town feel and crowds, we absolutely prefer Newburyport. But I noticed rent is MUCH more affordable in Gloucester.. I realized I dont know much about it- is it safe? Are the school systems great? What is the neighborhood and crowd like?

Our commute will be to Boston, and both are a pain the neck to get to/from, but we will make the sacrifice if we will love coming home every day.

[seeriously]

I keep hearing my ex-dil saying about Gloucester... "Gloucester people just don't cross the bridge." I think Gloucester is a tad isolated from the world in a blue collar way. But then, she was living in Newburyport when she made this comment. I love Newburyport. I just don't think there's any town better!

[brightdoglover]

Gloucester most certainly is not famed for its schools. Newburyport is much more upscale, more historic houses and much less of a parochial vibe.

[sm4269a]

The Manchester-Essex school system has a good reputation.