Moving to Quincy MA: The City of Presidents

Quincy is the largest city in Norfolk County and one of the most practical places to live in the Greater Boston area. Nicknamed "The City of Presidents" for being the birthplace of both John Adams and John Quincy Adams, Quincy has a rich history that belies its underdog reputation among Boston suburbanites. In recent years the city has undergone significant revitalization, particularly in Quincy Center and along the waterfront, attracting new residents who want Boston access without Boston prices. Four Red Line stations — Quincy Adams, Quincy Center, North Quincy, and Wollaston — provide reliable subway service to downtown Boston in 25 to 35 minutes.

Housing in Quincy is genuinely affordable by Greater Boston standards. One-bedroom apartments typically rent for $1,700 to $2,200, and two-bedrooms average $2,100 to $2,700 — representing savings of $500 to $1,000 per month compared to Boston proper. The housing stock is varied: older New England capes and colonials dominate the residential streets, while newer condo developments have risen near the Red Line stations. Quincy Center's downtown core has seen significant mixed-use construction, bringing modern apartments and retail to the historic commercial district. Wollaston and North Quincy are popular with families for their quieter streets and proximity to the beach.

Quincy's waterfront is one of its most underappreciated assets. Wollaston Beach — a 1.5-mile public beach on Quincy Bay — offers swimming, volleyball, and some of the best views of the Boston skyline you will find anywhere. Marina Bay is a major waterfront development with restaurants, a marina, and walking paths. Houghs Neck and Squantum are quiet residential peninsulas with stunning ocean views and a genuine neighborhood feel. When planning a move to Quincy, logistics are generally more straightforward than in Boston — streets are wider, parking is more available, and moving trucks can usually access most addresses without special permits. Boston Best Rate Movers covers all of Quincy and can coordinate efficient moves to and from the city's various neighborhoods.

The Quincy Public Schools system serves over 10,000 students and includes a strong International Baccalaureate program at Quincy High School. The city's public library system is excellent, and the Adams National Historical Park — which preserves the birthplaces and homes of two presidents — is a remarkable cultural resource. Quincy's restaurant scene has grown significantly, with a notable Asian-American community centered around Quincy Center supporting an impressive array of Chinese, Vietnamese, and Japanese restaurants. The city also has easy access to the Blue Hills Reservation, a 7,000-acre state park with hiking, skiing, and swimming just a few miles away. For cost-conscious renters and buyers who want genuine access to Boston, Quincy delivers exceptional value.