Hipsturbia: Millennials Seek a New Kind Of Suburb in Waltham

An entire generation of kids, who in the 1990s were playing in grassy backyards in the suburbs, are starting to leave the city in search of greener, cheaper options. But this time, things in the ‘burbs look different.  

“Hipsturbia,” a phenomenon identified by the 2020 Emerging Trends in Real Estate report by PwC, is responsible for this change.

Millennials, now in their 20s and 30s, aren’t interested in the suburban lifestyle they grew up with. Instead, they want all the benefits of suburban living mixed with the conveniences of city living—more space, at a lower cost, and a vibrant cultural and social scene. 

Greater Boston is no exception. With the city’s rising housing costs, many young renters are looking to settle down not too far from the city, but in a more affordable town with easy commutes to the city. In this series, I’m taking a deep dive into the unique flair of each of Boston’s numerous Hipsturbias and learning why young people are uprooting their city lives for this new kind of suburb. 

Welcome to Hipsturbia: Waltham

Now home to a number of large employers, Waltham is slowly transforming into the next big tech hub. The lifestyle that millennials crave, of living, working, and spending their free time all in one area, is achievable in Waltham. With a boom in business opportunities and entertainment options, Waltham has become a destination for young professionals who are looking to be close to Boston, but get more living space at a lower cost. 

Waltham’s diversity is one of the city’s biggest draws. One in four residents was born outside of the United States, which has led to a diverse, exciting business community. On Waltham’s famed Moody Street, you can dine on anything from pho to tapas to tandoori kebabs. 

There is no shortage of outdoor recreation options in Waltham. One of the main attractions in the city is Stonehurst, the Robert Treat Paine Estate. Visitors can tour the 19th century home and enjoy the network of well-maintained hiking trails. Prospect Hill Park is another lush green area with an added bonus of incredible views of downtown Boston. 

Waltham is situated just west of Watertown, another local Hipsturbia. It’s just a 20-minute drive from downtown Boston. Worry not if you don’t have a car, Waltham has two commuter rail stops that will take you into North Station in 20 minutes. There’s also a wide-reaching network of buses in the city that can take you to downtown Boston or to the Red Line in Cambridge and around Waltham’s various business districts.

The Waltham Neighborhood For You 

Waltham offers its residents a wide variety of housing options. Whether you’re looking to fully recreate the city lifestyle or want a single-family home with a yard, there’s an option for you. From Colonials to lofts in converted factories, Waltham’s housing stock is diverse. North Waltham is where you should look for single-family homes close to nature. If you’re looking to be near the action, head south of the Charles River to be within walking distance of the best dining and entertainment spots in the city. 

Kids in Waltham can get a great education at any of the town’s schools. The school district is above average for the state, according to Niche. 

The average home price in Waltham may be $610,000, but what buyers are getting for that value is a modern two-bedroom luxury condo or a single-family home with a manicured yard. In Boston or Cambridge, that same value will land you an 800 square foot apartment. The average rent for a two-bedroom in Waltham is $2,401. In Boston or Cambridge, renters would be paying around $700 more.  

An Average Saturday in Waltham 

Enjoy a hearty, affordable breakfast at In A Pickle, one of Waltham’s highest-rated diners located just one block away from the Charles River. Once you’ve had your fill, head to the Riverwalk Park for a stroll along the waterfront. If you’re feeling up for it, grab a Kayak at the Charles River Canoe and Kayak center and paddle along the river. Head west for views of The Island, one of Waltham’s unique neighborhoods. If an indoor activity is more your speed, check out the Charles River Museum of Industry and Innovation. For dinner, hit Moody Street where you can sample cuisines from around the world. Finish the night off at a local bar—The Gaff is known for its classic pub fare and live music. 

Millennials living in Waltham enjoy a mix of suburban and urban living. If you’re looking to make the move out of the city to one of Greater Boston’s Hipsturbias, start your search for a Waltham home with Senné today.