Dover, located in Norfolk County, Massachusetts, is a picturesque suburban town known for its rural charm, excellent schools, and tight-knit community. With its sprawling landscapes, rich natural beauty, and luxurious single-family homes, Dover attracts families and professionals seeking a tranquil lifestyle while remaining close to Boston's urban conveniences. This article showcases the best residential areas in Dover, highlighting their unique characteristics, housing options, and average prices.
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Dover Center
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Dover Center serves as the town's central hub, featuring charming boutiques, local eateries, and beautifully maintained parks. This area embodies small-town New England with a vibrant community spirit, making it ideal for families who appreciate local culture.
Characteristics of the Dover Center
* Culture: Historic buildings and parks, community events, local shops
* Transportation: Proximity to public transportation including commuter rail
* Services: Grocery stores, coffee shops, and local businesses
* Environment: Welcoming and community-oriented
Housing Options in the Dover Center
Single-family homes with spacious lots
Average Home Prices in the Dover Center
* Buying: $1,000,000 – $1,500,000
* Renting: $4,000 – $6,000/month
Walpole Street Neighborhood
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Walpole Street is characterized by its expansive properties and tranquility, making it one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Dover. It offers a blend of luxurious homes and natural beauty, appealing to those looking for privacy and serenity.
Characteristics of the Walpole Street Neighborhood
* Culture: Nature trails and outdoor recreational activities
* Transportation: Easy access to major highways, car recommended
* Services: Limited, primarily residential focus
* Environment: Peaceful and rural
Housing Options in the Walpole Street Neighborhood
Large estate homes, custom-built properties
Average Home Prices in the Walpole Street Neighborhood
* Buying: $1,200,000 – $2,000,000
* Renting: $5,000 – $8,000/month
Farm Street Area
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Farm Street is well-known for its picturesque landscapes and equestrian properties, attracting horse enthusiasts and nature lovers. The community is close-knit, with many events centered around outdoor activities.
Characteristics of the Farm Street Area
* Culture: Equestrian culture, outdoor activities, local farms
* Transportation: Car is essential; limited public transport
* Services: Riding schools, farms, and outdoor spaces
* Environment: Country-like and vibrant
Housing Options in the Farm Street Area
Farmhouses, equestrian estates
Average Home Prices in the Farm Street Area
* Buying: $900,000 – $1,500,000
* Renting: $3,500 – $6,000/month
North Dover Area
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The North Dover area is a suburban oasis known for its large, private homes situated on expansive lots. This neighborhood appeals to those who prioritize privacy while remaining accessible to the amenities of nearby towns.
Characteristics of the North Dover Area
* Culture: Community-oriented with numerous outdoor festivals
* Transportation: Good connections to neighboring towns and Boston, car advisable
* Services: Grocery stores, local shops, and recreational facilities nearby
* Environment: Cozy and family-friendly
Housing Options in the North Dover Area
Single-family homes, some with pools and large gardens
Average Home Prices in the North Dover Area
* Buying: $1,000,000 – $1,600,000
* Renting: $4,000 – $7,500/month
Dover-Sherborn School District Area
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This area is popular among families due to its access to top-rated schools in the Dover-Sherborn district. The neighborhoods are family-friendly and emphasize community engagement and educational excellence.
Characteristics of the Dover-Sherborn School District Area
* Culture: Education-focused with strong community ties
* Transportation: Accessibility to school buses and easy highway access
* Services: Schools, playgrounds, and community centers
* Environment: Family-centric and supportive
Housing Options in the Dover-Sherborn School District Area
Family homes with yards, new constructions
Average Home Prices in the Dover-Sherborn School District Area
* Buying: $1,000,000 – $1,700,000
* Renting: $3,800 – $6,500/month
Saxonville Area
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Saxonville is an emerging neighborhood that has seen recent development and offers a mix of modern amenities and traditional architecture. It’s ideal for young professionals and families looking for a vibrant community.
Characteristics of the Saxonville Area
* Culture: Arts and crafts community, local events, farmers market
* Transportation: Convenient access to commuter rail for Boston commutes
* Services: Shopping centers, dining options, parks
* Environment: Lively and developing
Housing Options in the Saxonville Area
Newly built homes, townhouses
Average Home Prices in the Saxonville Area
* Buying: $800,000 – $1,400,000
* Renting: $3,000 – $5,000/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Dover:
The best residential areas in Dover include Dover Center, Walpole Street Neighborhood, Farm Street Area, North Dover Area, Dover-Sherborn School District Area, and Saxonville Area.
The Dover-Sherborn School District Area is widely regarded as the most family-friendly due to its access to top schools and community resources.
Saxonville Area currently offers a mix of newly developed homes at competitive prices, attracting young families and professionals.
The average prices for homes in Dover range from $800,000 to $2,000,000, depending on the neighborhood and property type.
Yes, there are limited public transportation options including commuter rail services, though a car is advisable for greater convenience.
Farm Street Area and Walpole Street Neighborhood are known for their outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking, biking, and riding.
Dover offers a variety of housing options including single-family homes, farmhouses, and newly constructed properties.
Yes, Dover's peaceful environment and community-focused lifestyle make it a great choice for retirees seeking tranquility.
Dover has a strong sense of community with numerous local events, festivals, and clubs that foster community engagement.
Dover is home to highly rated schools, particularly within the Dover-Sherborn district, making it an attractive location for families.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Dover:
Dover, MA, presents an exceptional quality of life characterized by its serene environment, strong community spirit, and excellent educational opportunities. Whether you're drawn to the historic charm of Dover Center, the luxurious estates on Walpole Street, or the family-friendly atmosphere near the Dover-Sherborn School District, this town offers diverse residential options to suit various lifestyles. With an emphasis on outdoor activities and community involvement, Dover is not just a place to live—it's a place to thrive. Prospective residents will find comfort, luxury, and a welcoming atmosphere in this unique suburban gem.
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.