12 Best Worcester Neighborhoods: A Booming City Offering the Best of Both Worlds

If you're planning a move somewhere in the New England region, you can't go wrong with the city of Worcester. The city has experienced a surge in new residents due to its culturally diverse and affordable nature. Plus, it’s situated in a desirable location right in the center of Massachusetts, not far from Boston. Besides offering plenty of job opportunities and a revitalized urban center, residents living in the best Worcester neighborhoods can enjoy beautiful outdoor spaces and the city’s thriving arts and entertainment scene.

Major employers in Worcester’s healthcare and education sectors are some of the state's most prominent institutions — Worcester Polytechnic Institute and UMass Memorial Health — and you’re less likely to deal with the long commute times that come with living in the Boston suburbs. There are 12 accredited universities and colleges in the city, which draws a large student population. Plus, Worcester is home to some of the best public schools in the state.

Worcester at a Glance

• Worcester has a population of about 207,600.
• Students are drawn to Worcester’s education opportunities, while families enjoy the city’s tight-knit communities.
• The average home value in Worcester is $426,800, compared to $645,100 in the state and $360,700 nationally.
• The average rent for a one-bedroom in Worcester is $1,850, compared to $2,625 in the state and $1,750 nationally.
• The biggest draws to Worcester are the top schools, strong arts and culture scene, outdoor spaces, and diverse neighborhoods.

12 Best Worcester Neighborhoods

From neighborhoods surrounded by an abundance of entertainment and arts to tranquil neighborhoods surrounded by beautiful green spaces, take a look at some of the best neighborhoods in Worcester, MA.

A struggling manufacturing hub turned vibrant cultural and business district, this neighborhood is ideal for young professionals.

1. Downtown — Best for Young Professionals

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,850
• Median home sale price: $195,000
• Great for: Young professionals, sports, strong arts scene
• Commute to Downtown: N/A

The heart and soul of the city of Worcester is downtown. A struggling manufacturing hub turned vibrant cultural and business district, this neighborhood is ideal for young professionals. (Think: Living in Boston, but with a much cheaper price tag.) Art murals create a visual impact on the city's urban landscape, and pedestrian-friendly streets lead to various attractions.

The DCU Center is where fans of the local hockey team, the Worcester Railers, gather to cheer on their team. During the weekends, catch a show at The Palladium — a concert hall that’s played host to heavy hitters like The Foo Fighters and Prince. In the mood for art? Head over to one of the area's galleries or attend an artist reception at ArtsWorcester.

2. Salisbury Street — Best for Unique Homes

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,925
• Median home sale price: $670,000
• Great for: Families, retirees, unique homes, historic features
• Commute to Downtown: 10 minutes

Located in the western part of Worcester, Salisbury Street is known for its historic homes with unique qualities. Large front porches, bright paint jobs, and expansive sunrooms are all common features you might find throughout the neighborhood.

The 56-foot-tall Bancroft Tower — a stone monument that looks like a medieval castle — can be found on a hill overlooking this neighborhood. It was constructed in 1900 and is named after George Bancroft, a former U.S. Secretary of the Navy. And it’s a great spot to take your afternoon walk.

Salisbury Street is considered one of the safest Worcester neighborhoods, according to NeighborhoodScout. The MA Academy for Math & Science School is just a 9-minute drive from Salisbury Street, and it’s ranked No.1 among the Best Public High Schools in Massachusetts by Niche.

3. Forest Grove — Best for Families

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,675
• Median home sale price: $485,000
• Great for: Families, retirees, unique homes, dining
• Commute to Downtown: 11 minutes

Located on the western side of Worcester's gritty industrial district, Forest Grove is one of the best neighborhoods in Worcester, MA, for families. It is a tranquil suburban community bordering Indian Lake that’ll make you feel like you’ve been transported to one of the best small towns in Massachusetts.

Situated between Sagamore and Whitman roads is the Montvale Historic District. This area was first established in 1897 and has 37 historic homes boasting Colonial Revival, Queen Anne, and Victorian styles. There are a few local establishments also located in this area, like the Oak Barrel Tavern. This pub serves a variety of classic comfort dishes and drinks, and its interior is full of character.

The Tatnuck neighborhood is one of the best in Worcester if you want a hint of suburbia without losing out on access to amenities.
(Source: Melissa Clark, Coldwell Banker Realty via Facebook)

4. Tatnuck — Best for a Relaxed Lifestyle

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,975
• Median home sale price: $443,000
• Great for: Families, retirees, outdoor activities, country club amenities, dining
• Commute to Downtown: 10 minutes

The Tatnuck neighborhood is one of the best neighborhoods in Worcester, MA, if you’re searching for a hint of suburbia without losing out on access to amenities. You’ll still be close to the city center and Worcester State University, along with the hiking trails and waterfall views that Cascades Park has to offer. Tatnuck Country Club is a great place to play golf and socialize with friends, and members can take advantage of its various pools and courts.

The area's most popular restaurants are located along Chandler Street near Tatnuck Square, and the Worcester Sweets Café is a must-visit for pastries and morning brew. Scruffy Murphy's Irish Pub is another local favorite for authentic Irish food and laid-back vibes.

5. Greendale — Best for a Close-Knit Feel

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,275
• Median home sale price: $520,000
• Great for: Families, students, recreational activities, dining
• Commute to Downtown: 13 minutes

Located in the northern section of Worcester, Greendale is a residential community bordered by suburbs, featuring single-family homes and plenty of restaurants.

It's not hard to come by lots of recreational activities while living in Greendale, including Kendrick Field — a multi-purpose field used for Little League games. There’s also a playground and a basketball court. You’ll also find plenty of great restaurants in the area, including the pizza at 2 Chefs Italian Restaurant & Bar. In the mood for live music? Greendale’s Pub is a great option.

6. West Tatnuck — Best for a Small-Town Atmosphere

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,925
• Median home sale price: $463,000
• Great for: Families, retirees, hiking, parks, country club amenities
• Commute to Downtown: 13 minutes

The West Tatnuck community is surrounded by acres of conservation land and winding roads that offer miles of hiking trails and waterfalls to picnic by. Explore the trails that run along Cook Pond and climb up to the top of the waterfall that leads into it, or hike in Boynton Park and stop by the baseball diamond for a few innings.

Worcester as a whole is known for its delectable and diverse cuisine options, and West Tatnuck only adds to the variety. Options like Gyro & Souvlaki offer up some divine Greek meals, while Pepe’s Taqueria offers authentic Mexican dishes like carne asada and plenty of taco options.

Webster Square is a business hub in Western Worcester, but you wouldn’t know it by stepping outside.
(Source: Lamacchia Realty - Northborough via Facebook)

7. Webster Square — Best for Historic Attributes

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,500
• Median home sale price: $425,000
• Great for: Young professionals, families, retirees, unique history, outdoor spaces
• Commute to Downtown: 13 minutes

Webster Square is a business hub in Western Worcester, but you wouldn’t know it by stepping outside. You’ll find green spaces across the neighborhoods, including the Coes Reservoir and the Parson’s Cider Mill.

A little farther out is Tetasset Ridge, a scenic vista offering views across Worcester. You’ll find Seed Rock at the base of the climb, and you’ll be able to connect easily to Fowler Brook Gorge and its beautiful ravine.

You can’t go wrong with fresh and local produce, and Webster Square offers plenty of it. University Park holds a farmer’s market every Saturday from June through October, where you’ll be able to find fresh food, plus artisan crafts and other local goods.

8. Canal District — Best for Walkability

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $3,050
• Median home value: $435,000
• Great for: Young professionals, families, walkability, entertainment, dining
• Commute to Downtown: 5 minutes

This district was named for the waterway that was instrumental in the development of the area, the Blackstone Canal. The Canal District is a walkable area with several upscale restaurants, plus it’s home to Polar Park — a minor league baseball stadium.

This district is one of the best Worcester neighborhoods, known for its fun and laid-back atmosphere. On the hunt for tomato bisque and fresh bread on a Fall afternoon? Birch Tree Bread Co. might be calling your name. Another place beloved by residents is the Worcester Brew Yard, which features a variety of beers.

9. Shrewsbury Street — Best for an Affluent Lifestyle

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,800
• Median home sale price: $595,500
• Great for: Families, dining, local events
• Commute to Downtown: 5 minutes

If Colonial-style homes are your preference, then this next neighborhood may just be the right choice. Shrewsbury Street has an abundance of single-family and Colonial-style homes close to Lake Quinsigamond and Plantation Street. (The larger yards are a plus for families!)

This neighborhood has plenty of bars and restaurants to explore after you’ve moved. One of these is Redemption Rock Brewing Co., which plays host to great local events, including karaoke night and book clubs.

That’s not the only event you can enjoy, though. One of the area's most popular summer events is Taste of Shrewsbury Street. It’s put on by Worcester’s merchants' association, and features various food and music acts.

10. Broadmeadow Brook — Best for Nature Experiences

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,075
• Median home sale price: $348,800
• Great for: Families, retirees, wildlife exploration, tranquil environment
• Commute to Downtown: 10 minutes

Broadmeadow Brook is a neighborhood situated in the suburbs of Worcester. Characterized by its dense wooded areas and residential communities, it’s less than three miles from downtown. Broadmeadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, hosted by Mass Audubon, spans 400 acres and features more than five miles of hiking trails. This place serves as a nature preserve, museum, and picnic area. It also offers summer camps, volunteering opportunities, and youth programs.

Located on the eastern edge of Worcester, the Grafton Hill neighborhood borders Lake Quinsigamond.
(Source: Lamacchia Realty - Northborough via Facebook)

11. Grafton Hill — Best for Easy Water Access

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,100
• Median home sale price: $460,000
• Great for: Families, young professionals, water activities, hiking, shopping
• Commute to Downtown: 10 minutes

If you love getting out on the water, Grafton Hill is one of the best neighborhoods in Worcester, MA, to settle down in. Located on the eastern edge of Worcester, it borders Lake Quinsigamond. And makes the perfect backdrop for summer activities, time spent on the beach at Lake Park, or peaceful waterfront strolls.

Quinsigamond State Park has tennis courts and a picnic area — not to mention the sailing and fishing opportunities. Perkins Farm is the perfect spot to go hiking amongst mature oak trees and stone walls, ideal for hikers to explore.

The area's main street, Grafton Street, is lined with establishments like restaurants and large box stores. Residents can also go shopping at the Perkins Farm Marketplace.

12. Newton Square — Best for Classic New England Charm

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,975
• Median home sale price: $530,000
• Great for: Young professionals, families, retirees, local events, dining
• Commute to Downtown: 7 minutes

Situated just west of Downtown Worcester, the Newton Square neighborhood comes with several historic homes and a variety of parks and other open spaces.

Elm Park features a playground and dog runs for the kids and the pup to burn off some energy. Plus, the park’s summer concert series is a great way to experience Worcester’s local musicians while enjoying a quiet evening out during the warmer months.

The main road through the area is Pleasant Street, which features historic homes, churches, and various restaurants. Need a restaurant within walking distance? Westside Steak & BBQ or Newton Square Pizza are both close by, plus you’ll have easy access to breakfast at Bagel Time and Altea’s Bakery.

Move to One of the Best Worcester Neighborhoods with PODS

When you’ve found your ideal neighborhood in Worcester, start your move to Massachusetts with PODS. Have a portable moving and storage container delivered to your driveway, where you’ll be able to load at your own pace. If you need help with the heavy lifting, PODS can refer you to local packing and loading assistance. Once you’re ready, schedule a pick-up and have your belongings transported to their new home, or a secure PODS Storage Center. One month of storage is built into the cost of your move, so you can easily unload your container on your own schedule.

Visit PODS online for a free local moving quote or call 877-350-7637 for long-distance moving.

Editor’s note: Average rent prices were obtained from RentCafe and Zumper; average home values were obtained from Zillow; median home sale prices were obtained from Redfin; and median home values were obtained from Realtor.com. For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100. Home values in the millions were rounded to the nearest $100,000.

_{*This article was written on behalf of PODS Enterprises, LLC (“PODS”). PODS does not warrant the completeness or accuracy of any information contained in this article and disclaims any liability for reliance upon the content herein.}