Cresswind at Lake Harris
Tavares, Florida
Methuen, Massachusetts
What It Is Like to Retire in Methuen
Methuen is a small city and suburb that is northwest of Boston. This is an old town (population 44,000) with a history dating back to 1642. It has many strong institutions, such as the stately Nevins Memorial Library pictured above (photo courtesy of Wikipedia and EraserGirl). The town lies along the north banks of the Merrimack River. There are several places in Methuen on the National Register of Historic Places, the chief one being the The "Searles Tenney Nevins Historic District". It was established to preserve the "distinctive architecture and rich character of one of Massachusetts’ most unique neighborhoods" and is named after the three "Methuen city fathers": David C. Nevins, Edward F. Searles and Charles H. Tenney. Photo of Nevins Memorial Library and photo of Methuen Memorial Music Hall courtesy of Wikipedia and EraserGirl (both photos in the public domain).
Where to Retire in Methuen and Home Prices
Where to Live Homes in the Historic District are quite special. There is also at least one active adult community in the Methuen area. The median home value in Methuen was $535,316 in late 2023, according to Zillow.com. The cost of living and taxes in Massachusetts are generally high.
What Is Special about Methuen
The Searles Tenney Nevins Historic District is really quite special. These 3 patrons were in a competition of sorts and the result is an architectural legacy that remains today. Gaunt Square is the commercial center of town. Methuen Memorial Music Hall was built especially to house the Great Organ.
What Is Not Special about Methuen
Winters are chilly and costs are high. There is no train service to Boston.
Who Will Like Retirement in Methuen
People who want to remain in the Boston area in an interesting town might well like Methuen.
Local Economy Is Driven by
There is some manufacturing and high tech industry in this area. Many others commute to Boston or other suburbs.
Climate and Physical Environment
Methuen is northwest of Boston by about 30 miles. It is the northermost MA town on I 93. The average July high temperature is 83 and the average January high is 34 (the average low is 14). The wettest month is November (4").
Restaurants & Cultural Scene
Methuen has an above average cultural environment for a town of its size. The Nevins Memorial Library is impressive, as is the Methuen Memorial Music Hall was built specifically to house the Great Organ. The organ and its related equipment is said to be as large as a house.
Crime
Crime rate is about half the national average.
Medical facilities
The Holy Family Hospital and Medical Center serves Methuen.
Transportation
There is bus service but no train service to Boston (the nearest station is in Lawrence). Methuen is on I 93. Methuen is below average in walkability when compared to other communities.
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