Westfield, Gardner, and Fitchburg were named the best options for homebuyers in the Bay State, according to a new report by Advance America.
The list, compiled after surveying more than 3,000 real estate professionals, focused on U.S. cities where residents can find affordable homes, a reasonable cost of living, and a high quality of life. While cities in Florida, Texas, and the Carolinas dominated the top rankings, Massachusetts made a strong showing further down the list.
Westfield, located just west of Springfield, was the top-ranked Massachusetts city, placing 100th nationwide. Homebuyers there can find space and stability often missing in larger metros. With a median home price of around $320,000 and a cost of living 8 percent below the state average, Westfield offers small-town charm with access to jobs and major highways…