Thinking of Living in Dover MA? 🇺🇲 Here’s What to Know Before Moving to Dover

If you’re moving to Dover for its tranquil rural setting and scenic roads, you’re in luck. This mostly residential town has miles of winding trails and woods where residents enjoy the outdoors. Living in Dover MA is perfect for those who want a quiet life with great opportunities. The public schools in Dover are consistently ranked among the best in the country, making it an excellent place for families with school children. 

First settled in 1640, Dover became known as the Springfield Parish of Dedham in 1748. It wasn’t incorporated as the town of Dover until 1836. The name comes from the town of Dover, England. You can see evidence throughout town that Dover was once mainly a farming community. Lots of pasture land, farmhouses, and barns still decorate the landscape today.

Dover is home to stunning natural reserves and parks that provide a wealth of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy horseback riding, tennis, hiking, cycling, cross-country skiing, skating, and more. Dover boasts a number of historic sites as well, such as the Benjamin Caryl House, built around 1777, and the Sawin Building, dedicated in 1907 as the Dover Historical Society office. 

Of all the cities in Massachusetts, Dover is one small village with a big heart. Keep reading to find out why so many love living in Dover MA!

Where Is Dover, MA?

Dover is a town in Norfolk County located about a 40-minute drive southwest of downtown Boston. Dover is a community situated along the south banks of the Charles River. Many of those living in Dover MA are commuting to nearby Boston. It’s one of the benefits of being one of the closest cities near Boston. Commuters in Dover primarily get to Boston via the MBTA Commuter Rail, providing direct train service from the Dover station to various stations in Boston.

Map of Dover, MA

Check out this map to find more attractions and fun things to do while living in Dover MA:

Dover MA Population and Demographics

The Dover population is 5,923. Though it’s small, moving to Dover comes with some great opportunities for diversity. There is a large immigrant population living in Dover MA, with 15% of residents born outside the US. The Chinese-American population makes up over 13% of that. Evidence of Chinese influence can be seen in events such as the Chinese New Year celebration. Chinese-American residents in Dover are committed to preserving the best parts of their Chinese heritage. The Dover City Council has celebrated local Chinese-Americans, as well as the Pacific Islander community, by recognizing the month of May as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month since 1992.  

Race & Ethnicity of those living in Dover MA:

• White alone 78.8%
• Black or African American alone 1.7%
• Asian alone 13.1%
• Two or more race 5.6%
• Hispanic 2.2%
• White alone, not Hispanic or Latino 76.7%

Here’s an overview of Dover’s demographics:

• Population density: 592.3 per square mile
• Median age: 52.3
• Sex ratio: 52.5% males, 47.5% females
• Median household income: $250,000
• Educational attainment: 98.3% high school degree or higher, 87.7% bachelor’s degree or higher
• Foreign-born population: 15.3%
• Veteran population: 112

Dover is a very safe place to live. Those living in Dover MA have the Dover Police Department  to thank for that! Dover has 16 sworn officers who work diligently to prevent crime, educate the public, and assist in resolving problems. They want those living in Dover to remain in a safe environment. 

Dover has an average of 203 crimes per 100,000 people, which is 91% lower than the national average. The violent crime average in Dover is 85 crimes per 100,000 people, 71% lower than the national average and lower than Boston’s crime rate.

Dover MA Cost of Living

The cost of living in Dover is 144% higher than the US average. The cost of living in Dover is heavily influenced by Dover MA real estate costs, which are 369% above the state average. It’s more expensive than the cost of living in Boston. While the real estate market isn’t that competitive, it’s rare for homes to go on sale. 

So, moving to Dover can be a bit tough. Most people keep the property once they own it, so you won’t find many Dover MA real estate for sale. This means if you find a home for sale in Dover you are interested in buying or leasing, act quickly!

The median sale price of the homes for sale Dover MA has available is $1,602,500. The price per square foot of the current homes for sale in Dover is $388. Check out the many Dover MA homes for sale if you’re interested. The average rent in Dover is $3,300 for a two-bedroom apartment, according to Zillow. 

By comparison, the average rental cost of a two-bedroom apartment in Boston are $3,200 per month. You can find apartments for rent and homes for rent in Dover MA on Rent Cafe.

Typical Dover Living Expenses:

• Meal, inexpensive restaurant: $24.00
• Domestic beer: $8.00
• 1 gallon of milk: $4.91
• Dozen eggs: $4.55
• 1 pound of chicken: $6.12
• Average Dover monthly utility bill: $201.59

Source: Numbeo, Boston, MA

The Best Neighborhoods in Dover

Those living in Dover MA are known for their wealth. Dover is well renowned for its expansive estates, lush landscapes, and a strong sense of community. The real estate in Dover is known throughout the state, and the neighborhoods are opulent. The town of Dover offers a peaceful luxury, a mix of comfort and modern living, and a timeless New England charm. 

All throughout town, you can see majestic real estate along winding roads with perfectly manicured lawns and beautiful gentleman’s farmhouses nestled amongst rolling hills. Dover is a close-knit neighborhood that hosts many local events, including town fairs and outdoor concerts. Shopping and dining opportunities are located in the small commercial district in the center of town as well as in the surrounding towns and communities. 

Hamlins Crossing

Of all the neighborhoods in Dover, this is likely the most expensive one. This is an exclusive Dover neighborhood with country lanes and lots ranging from 2 to 26 acres, offering lots of privacy. Real estate here is very expensive. Home styles vary and include Colonial Revival, Brick Georgian, and French Country Manor. Many homes have pools and access to an extensive horse trail network.

Woodland Estates

If you’re looking for real estate that is slightly more affordable, this beautiful new neighborhood consisting of high-quality custom homes is for you. It’s located only minutes from downtown Dover amenities, including shopping and popular restaurants. The neighborhood is near the public library, museums, and golf courses. 

Dover MA Weather & Climate

Dover has a temperate climate that features mild summers and cold winters. The average summer temperature is a refreshing 68°F. Winter temperatures average around 33°F. Dover typically gets about 49 inches of rainfall per year, with most of it coming in April and October. Most snow falls in Dover during January and February, but it isn’t unusual to see snow from late December through March. 

Dover sees an average of 47 inches of snow per year, nearly double the national average of 28 inches. Spring and autumn are pleasant and sunny days, perfect for outdoor activities. On average, Dover sees 201 sunny days per year. The best time of year to visit Dover is from mid-June to mid-September if you like mild weather. If you love cool, crisp air, try coming in November!

Things to Do in Dover Massachusetts

Dover offers many interesting things to see and do that attract residents and visitors. Convenient shopping is also available at the New Dover Market, Dedham Mall, and Linden Square. There are plenty of opportunities for family recreation in this town. Here are some of the best things to do while living in Dover MA, with your family and friends:

Noanet Woodlands

Noanet covers nearly 600 acres of woodland property to explore, including a 24-foot-high dam and a 20-foot-deep wheel preserved from the construction of an old sawmill. This property is a haven for wildlife. In spring, you might spot warblers, thrushes, scarlet tanagers, and other songbirds, as well as hawks in the fall. Wildflowers abound, including pink lady’s slipper, flowering wintergreen, and marsh marigold.

Powisset St, Dover, MA 02030, Phone: (508) 785-0339

Powisset Farm

Powisset is a working farm that covers 109 acres of beautiful property. A loop trail provides vistas of the surrounding oak forest, brooks, fields, and wetlands. You might even see white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and grassland-nesting bobolinks. Highlights include a barnyard, farm store, teaching kitchen, culinary program, summer camp, and year-round programs and events for recreation opportunities. 

39 Powisset St, Dover, MA 02030, (508) 785-0339

The Garden at Elm Bank

The Garden at Elm Bank showcases a wide range of beautiful and colorful flowers, such as Dahlias, Daylilies, Daffodils, Rhododendrons, and more. They also feature an Asian garden, a maple grove, a greenhouse, and a 200-foot labyrinth to explore. 

900 Washington St, Wellesley, MA 02482, (617) 933-4900

Additional Attractions Near Dover, MA:

• Sugar Ridge Farm
• Davis Museum
• The Escape Game Dedham

For more outdoor activities while living in Dover MA, the Dover Parks & Recreation manages local parks and facilities for residents to enjoy. Caryl Park’s 83 acres is home to playgrounds, tennis courts, walking trails, softball and baseball fields, and more. At Channing Pond, enjoy fishing, hiking, and outdoor ice skating in winter. The Chickering Playfields have soccer, lacrosse, baseball, and softball fields and provide youth leagues throughout the year.

Dover MA Restaurants

Dover offers a variety of dining options for those living in Dover MA, from local comfort food to Italian favorites, barbeque, and everything in between. Dover offers dining options that will appeal to an array of tastes. Enjoy delicious dishes at popular dining establishments such as:

Bears Den Restaurant & Tavern

​The Bear’s Den serves up the best homestyle cooking around. They heap on large portions at an affordable price. Try their specialties, which include steak and fresh Maine seafood. Stop in for pancakes, skillets, and more for breakfast. The Bear’s Den features karaoke and live music throughout the week by talented local rock and country bands. 

73 North St, Dover-Foxcroft, ME 04426, (207) 564-8733

Peace, Love & Waffles

This very popular eatery offers a variety of sweet and savory waffles plus chicken and waffles for breakfast. A family-owned and operated restaurant, Peace, Love & Waffles features unique items such as the Tuscan mushroom waffle, the seasonal pumpkin streusel waffle with maple bourbon cream on top, and the loaded potato waffle.

1282 Bangor Rd, Dover-Foxcroft, ME 04426, (207) 564-7700

The Mill Cafe

​​The Mill Cafe has established an eclectic breakfast and lunch menu that focuses on fresh, quality ingredients. Popular dishes include the breakfast burrito, the butternut squash soup, the tomato mozzarella flatbread, and the maple bourbon bagel.

5 A E Main St, Dover-Foxcroft, ME 04426, (207) 564-7966

Jobs in Dover MA

Dover provides job opportunities in fields such as healthcare, education, and manufacturing. Dover’s proximity to downtown Boston offers additional employment opportunities. One of the major employers near Dover is Medical Information Technology (MEDITECH). The company, headquartered in Canton, MA, develops, manufactures, licenses, and supports computer software products for hospitals. 

Other major employers near Dover include Stop & Shop Supermarket Company, Baskin-Robbins, and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care. If you’re looking for a job in Dover, check out Indeed, the Dover Job Opportunities, or other job board sites. 

Schools in Dover MA

Dover-Sherborn Public Schools are considered among the best in Massachusetts and in the nation. According to Boston magazine, the town’s elementary schools are consistently ranked as #1 in the state. The district has four schools: Chickering Elementary, Pine Hill Elementary, Dover-Sherborn Middle, and Dover-Sherborn High. Dover-Sherborn High has impressively high graduation rates, college admission rates, and standardized and Advanced Placement exam scores. 

The school ranked 7th in academic performance by Boston magazine. U.S. News & World Report named it a Gold Medal School and ranked it 65th in the country. The school district has a low 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio and has a mission to inspire, challenge, and support all students, helping them achieve their full potential.

The area surrounding Dover also has secondary schools and provides very good private school options. Some popular private schools include Charles River School, Riverbend School, and Walnut Hill School for the Arts.

If you’re looking for advanced education opportunities, there are many great schools in the area. Some popular choices include Babson College, Boston University, Harvard University, and Massachusetts Bay Community College. 

For those living in Dover MA, the library is free! If you’re looking for a fun day in the community, check out the Dover Town Library, where you can check out books, DVDs, CDs, audiobooks, and much more. The library also hosts cultural activities throughout the year for those living in Dover MA. 

Dover MA Statistics & Information

• County: Norfolk County
• Area: 15.4 square miles
• Dover MA zip code: 02030
• Area code: 508, 774 
• Elevation: 46 feet
• Time zone: Eastern Standard Time (UTC-4 and -5)
• Closest airport: Boston Logan International Airport

Are you moving to Dover? After reading our guide, hopefully, you feel better prepared! There’s nothing better than being prepared when it comes to living in Dover MA. This beautiful town is ready to welcome you, but don’t go at it alone. 

Mass Bay Movers is here to help you relocate with the best Dover MA movers. Give us a call at 978-587-3775 for a free quote!