Buckland, a picturesque town in Franklin County, Massachusetts, is known for its charming rural atmosphere and access to beautiful landscapes, including the nearby Berkshires. The town promotes a strong sense of community and outdoor living, perfect for families and individuals seeking a slower pace of life. This article explores the best residential areas in Buckland, examining their unique characteristics, housing options, and average prices to help prospective residents find their ideal home.
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Downtown Buckland
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As the center of Buckland, Downtown Buckland features a mix of historical homes and convenient amenities. The area is vibrant, with shops, cafes, and local restaurants, making it ideal for those who enjoy a walkable community.
Characteristics of the Downtown Buckland
* Culture: Local art galleries, community events, and seasonal farmers' markets
* Transportation: Easily accessible by foot, with limited public transport options
* Services: Grocery stores, post office, and community centers
* Environment: Friendly and close-knit, with a vibrant local culture
Housing Options in the Downtown Buckland
Historic homes, Single-family homes, Townhouses
Average Home Prices in the Downtown Buckland
* Buying: $250,000 – $400,000
* Renting: $1,500 – $2,200/month
Shelburne Falls Area
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Located adjacent to Buckland, Shelburne Falls is known for its stunning natural beauty and the iconic Bridge of Flowers. This area is perfect for those who appreciate the outdoors and artistic communities, with a plethora of hiking trails and riverside views.
Characteristics of the Shelburne Falls Area
* Culture: Artistic and historical with local craft shops and galleries
* Transportation: Car is essential; public transport options are minimal
* Services: Restaurants, grocery stores, and cultural attractions
* Environment: Scenic and artistic, with a strong sense of community
Housing Options in the Shelburne Falls Area
Victorian homes, Cottages, Lodge-style homes
Average Home Prices in the Shelburne Falls Area
* Buying: $275,000 – $450,000
* Renting: $1,600 – $2,400/month
Buckland Center
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Buckland Center is a tranquil area featuring larger plots of land and spacious homes. It’s ideal for families seeking a quieter lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle.
Characteristics of the Buckland Center
* Culture: Rural charm with community gatherings and outdoor activities
* Transportation: Car is necessary; limited public transportation
* Services: Local farms, small shops, and parks
* Environment: Calm, peaceful, and family-friendly
Housing Options in the Buckland Center
Single-family homes, Modern builds
Average Home Prices in the Buckland Center
* Buying: $300,000 – $500,000
* Renting: $1,700 – $2,500/month
North Buckland Area
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This area is characterized by its proximity to the Natty Pond, providing residents with options for fishing and water-related recreational activities. Families and nature enthusiasts will find this area appealing.
Characteristics of the North Buckland Area
* Culture: Outdoor lifestyle with community events focused on nature
* Transportation: Requires a personal vehicle for access to amenities
* Services: Limited services but has access to a local boat launch
* Environment: Natural and serene, fostering outdoor activities
Housing Options in the North Buckland Area
Cottages, Custom-built homes
Average Home Prices in the North Buckland Area
* Buying: $275,000 – $425,000
* Renting: $1,500 – $2,000/month
West Buckland
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Known for its agricultural roots, West Buckland boasts open spaces and rural farmland, making it perfect for those inclined to a homesteading lifestyle. It offers a close-knit community vibe and beautiful rural scenery.
Characteristics of the West Buckland
* Culture: Agricultural community with farm stands and seasonal festivals
* Transportation: Car essential for commuting and errands
* Services: Farmers' markets, local produce, parks
* Environment: Rustic and laid-back, with a strong emphasis on nature
Housing Options in the West Buckland
Farmhouses, Acreage homes, Split-level homes
Average Home Prices in the West Buckland
* Buying: $290,000 – $480,000
* Renting: $1,600 – $2,300/month
Mahican-Mohawk Trail Area
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This scenic area along the historic Mohawk Trail offers breathtaking views of Massachusetts’ landscape. Ideal for outdoor lovers, it's close to hiking trails and natural parks.
Characteristics of the Mahican-Mohawk Trail Area
* Culture: Rich in indigenous history and outdoor exploration opportunities
* Transportation: Car recommended; hiking and biking trails abound
* Services: Access to trailheads and nature reserves
* Environment: Adventurous, vibrant, and nature-oriented
Housing Options in the Mahican-Mohawk Trail Area
Cottages, Rustic cabins, Vacation homes
Average Home Prices in the Mahican-Mohawk Trail Area
* Buying: $320,000 – $600,000
* Renting: $1,800 – $2,500/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Buckland Franklin:
The best residential areas in Buckland Franklin include Downtown Buckland, Shelburne Falls Area, Buckland Center, North Buckland Area, West Buckland, and the Mahican-Mohawk Trail Area.
Buckland Center and West Buckland are highly recommended for families due to their quiet atmosphere and spacious homes.
Yes, Buckland Franklin is served by several reputable public and private schools, with educational programs emphasizing community involvement.
The average home price in Buckland Franklin ranges from $250,000 to $600,000, depending on the area and type of home.
Public transport options are limited in Buckland Franklin; a personal vehicle is generally necessary for commuting and errands.
The Mahican-Mohawk Trail Area offers the best access to outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and exploring nature.
Downtown Buckland features several local shops and eateries that provide basic shopping options. For larger selections, residents may travel to nearby towns.
Buckland Franklin offers a variety of housing options, including historic homes, modern builds, cottages, and farmhouses.
The Shelburne Falls Area is well-known for its artistic community, offering numerous craft shops, art galleries, and cultural events.
Buckland Franklin has a friendly and close-knit community atmosphere, with various events and activities that encourage social interaction among residents.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Buckland Franklin:
Buckland Franklin, MA, each residential area offers unique characteristics, from the vibrant community in Downtown Buckland to the tranquil, rural atmosphere of West Buckland. Families, outdoor enthusiasts, and individuals seeking a peaceful life will find Buckland Franklin appealing with its rich culture, natural beauty, and diverse housing options. The town may be small in size, but it is rich in community spirit and opportunities for a fulfilling lifestyle, making it an excellent choice for those looking to settle in a charming New England town.
About the Author
Published by:Eribert De Oliveira
Mechatronics Engineer and founder of Mi Inmueble Online, with a background in real estate. I combine technology and analysis to help you find the best areas to live.