Wakefield, MA is a small city that is located right outside of Boston. However, many people are moving to Wakefield for much more than its close proximity to the city. While that’s certainly a benefit, Wakefield is a beautiful town all on its own! It’s rich in green hills and trees, with two stunning lakes that are located on Wakefield’s border. Families living in Wakefield enjoy a safe city with lots of history.
Wakefield is located in Middlesex County, which is part of the greater Boston metropolitan area. It borders Stoneham and Reading. The city was named after Cyrus Wakefield, an entrepreneur that was hardworking and encompassed the spirit of the town. With all the benefits of living in Boston, moving to Wakefield puts you next to two gorgeous lakes and stunning winters that families and single adults all love. If you’re wondering, “Should I move to Wakefield?” you’re not alone. Check out our guide with everything you need to know.
Wakefield MA Population and Demographics
When it comes to population, Wakefield has a modest size of 26,823. While it’s not a small town or big city, it’s really a great size for those wanting to live near a city but be in a suburb. This is perfect to escape that Boston traffic and come home to a nice neighborhood where people are friendly. The median age is 43.5, so there are many families living in Wakefield that commute to nearby Boston for work.
Wakefield demographics include 95% of people living in Wakefield are citizens, which is fairly high. 91.6% are white, 3.87% are Latino, 2.01% are Asian, 1.3% are mixed race, and 1.1% are Black. The crime rate in Wakefield is incredibly low. It’s 68% less than the national average, so moving to Wakefield is smart if you’re looking for a safe place for your family!
Wakefield’s zipcodes are 01880, 01906, 01940. When you relocate here, the area codes for Wakefield are 781 and 339.
Cost of Living in Wakefield
Considering moving to Wakefield is a big decision. You’re probably wondering just how much Wakefield costs. Well, the cost of living in Wakefield is slightly higher than the national average, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Massachusetts is known for being pricey, but it also offers great job opportunities as well. So while median home prices are $448,000 and may seem high, the majority (74.7%) own their homes. If you’re looking for Wakefield, MA homes for sale now is a great time to buy.
Thanks to the location being so close to Boston, you can expect to pay similar prices. There are affordable stores nearby, so you may pay a bit less than those Boston city prices. Many people ask, why is Wakefield so expensive? The short answer is because it’s so close to Boston, which opens many job opportunities, it’s a place where a lot of people want to move to. Because of this, the average cost of living in Wakefield is going to be about the same as Boston.
Daily Cost of Living in Wakefield
- Fast food meal: $8.00
- Sit down restaurant: $15.00
- A gallon of milk in Wakefield: $3.33
- Pound of chicken breast in Wakefield: $5.90
Best Wakefield Neighborhoods
The best Wakefield neighborhoods are really safe, which is especially important if you’re living with your loved ones! Each neighborhood in Wakefield is unique and offers its own set of pros and cons. The most popular neighborhoods are West Side, Downtown, East Side, Woodville, Greenwood, and Montrose.
If you’re looking to be close to ponds, lakes, and walking trails, West Side and Greenwood are great options as they border the two lakes in Wakefield. If you want close proximity to the highways, Montrose is the perfect neighborhood to be in because you can quickly hop on the highway to neighboring cities.
Many people also like to live downtown. There are some apartments and condos with an urban feel, and there are lots of restaurants and fun things to do in downtown Wakefield. If you’re a single adult or young couple, downtown is the perfect place to be away from Boston but still get that urban feel.
Picturesque Wakefield, MA Weather
Everyone wants nice weather when living in Wakefield, and you’re sure to get that. The average temperature in Wakefield ranges from highs of 35°F to 82°F and lows of 17°F to 61°F. If you aren’t a big fan of sweltering heat, Wakefield climate is perfect. Though it does get some snow in the winter, it’s during the enjoyable holiday season, so you can expect a white Christmas and holiday season!
Things to Do & Restaurants in Wakefield
When thinking about moving here, people always wonder, “What is there to do in Wakefield?” Thankfully, you have all the fun activities of Boston nearby, and more right inside of Wakefield. No matter what you’re looking for, there are fun things to do in Wakefield. Once you’ve exhausted all of your day and your stomach is grumbling, you’re in luck. The restaurants in Wakefield are full of delicious food that will leave you stuffed.
Lake Quannapowitt
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Lake Quannapowitt is home to 5ks, marathons, and daily runners who take advantage of the great trails around the lake. If you’re looking for family things to do in Wakefield, Lake Quannapowitt should be your first choice for a fun weekend.
Lake Quannapowitt, Wakefield, MA 01880
Wakefield Bowladrome
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Looking for things to do in Wakefield with kids? Check out the Bowladrome, which is an old fashioned bowling alley where you can bring outside food and bowl with the family.
Wakefield Bowladrome, 92 Water St, Wakefield, MA 01880
Blue Moon Grill
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If you’re looking for brunch in Wakefield, look no further. With hundreds of reviews, you’ll leave here with a full stomach and smiling tastebuds. Plus, they even offer gluten-free items for those with allergies!
Blue Moon Grill, 955 Main St, Wakefield, MA 01880
Brothers Deli Restaurant
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A cafeteria-style restaurant with American and Greek favorites, Brothers Deli is a popular option for those wanting daily specials and delicious, home-cooked food. It’s a staple in Wakefield you won’t want to miss out on.
Brothers Deli Restaurant, 404 Main St, Wakefield, MA 01880
Wakefield Job Opportunities
You can’t move without securing a job. Thankfully, business in Wakefield is good! There are 15,261 employees in Wakefield alone, and plenty of people take the small commute to Boston as well. Inside Wakefield, many people are in management occupations and administrative support jobs.
Wakefield employment is growing at a steady rate of 1.15% each year, so now is a great time to look into Wakefield job openings. If you’re looking to work in Boston, click the link to get directions from Wakefield, MA to Boston, which is 16 miles away.
Best Wakefield Schools
Many students in Wakefield attend public schools and charter schools. The best wakefield schools are rated above the national average, so students get a good education. While there is only one Wakefield High School, there are multiple middle schools and elementary schools to choose from in the area. Younger students can attend Greenwood Elementary School. Others may attend schools in nearby cities since a good chunk of Wakefield belongs to a different school district.
Living in Wakefield Tips
- Enjoy mild, cool weather year round
- Wakefield has beautiful lakes and nature trails
- Employment is good and many work in nearby Boston
- Wakefield is an extremely safe city with 66% less crime than the rest of the nation
- Schools are rated above national averages
If you’re planning on living Wakefield, this guide has everything you should know. When moving to Wakefield, remember to call Mass Bay Movers to make your move go as smooth as possible!
