AWalker17 t1_iuj8lys wrote on October 31, 2022 at 7:11 PM

I grew up in Worcester and I think, based on the info you provided in your original post, it would be the perfect spot for you (Shrewsbury too). I'm not sure where you're from, but I'm not sure that New England falls into your >1 hour theory. IMO, if you aren't in one of the neighboring towns of Boston, you will lose the "city" feeling. That was something that was shocking to me, moving closer to Boston from Worcester and realizing it was less of a city vibe than Worcester unless I got very close to the city. Generally, however, New England itself has its own culture that you won't lose moving about the region.

newbl00d21 OP t1_iujhqhb wrote on October 31, 2022 at 8:12 PM

I'm from all over the northeast but I've lived on Long Island for awhile and outside Philly for awhile. I don't want the city "vibe," it's just that I like the fast pace and when people are quick and efficient (like at stores, restaurants, businesses, and just people in general). I also like when people and businesses generally have a better idea of what is good quality (food, customer service, etc.). At least in our own personal experience those things drop off dramatically after >1 hr outside of big cities. Obviously not saying there aren't plenty of people like that who don't live near big cities, just that there's much less of them in our experience. If I could find a suburban area with these characteristics that were 2-3 hour from a big city I'd be fine with that too, it's just a lot more difficult. It's just being closer to the city also offers more benefits like closer big airport, bigger concert venues, etc.

AWalker17 t1_iujpkvr wrote on October 31, 2022 at 9:06 PM

Well, I think you’re on the right track with Worcester. Keep in mind - the thing people love about Worcester is that you’re 45 minutes from everywhere - Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Boston. Worcester itself has a great food scene. I’m a foodie myself and often miss Worcester’s restaurant scene. Worcester is also very diverse and prides itself on its immigrant community; they host a “Worcester World Cup” every year where soccer teams are formed based on country of origin and it’s a great celebration of what the city is all about. If you have any specific questions on areas of the city or what not, feel free to ask.