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About Needham MA Apartments For Rent
Area Overview
If you are looking for a home in the Greater Boston area, Needham, MA apartments for rent might have just what you are looking for. Needham is a town in the suburbs of Boston, located in Norfolk County and about 10 miles southwest of the city. The surrounding towns include Wellesley, Newton, Dedham, Westwood, Dover, and the West Roxbury section of Boston.
For those who enjoy the outdoors, there is plenty of green space in Needham! The Charles River borders the town to the east, which allows for beautiful views in the town’s parks and nature reserves that run along the river. There are also many parks offering sports fields, picnic areas, and playgrounds.
As of 2017, there were 10,963 households in Needham, according to the American Community Survey, with 17% being renter occupied. According to census data from 2017, the town has a population of 30,999. United States Census Bureau data reveal that Needham has experienced a slow but steady population increase since 1990. While it does not have a city feel, it is no small town. Needham covers 12.3 square miles and consists of 2,476.5 people per square mile.
History
Needham has a rich history, dating back to the 1640s. Originally, the colonists who settled there farmed the land. They purchased the land from the local tribal leader in 1680, but residents did not incorporate the town until 1711 as part of the Dedham Grant. After petitioning to separate from Dedham, in part due to distance from the government meeting house and church, the local government established the town of Needham.
In 1774, the original meetinghouse burned down in a fire of unknown cause. This occurred during a period in which there was much conflict due to a group of settlers wishing to form a second parish in the town. Needham expanded from strictly agriculture into other industries – including knitting – in the 1850s with the help of two developments: the construction of the first rail line, connecting Needham to Boston, and an increase in immigration, which continued into the 1900s. With new technologies and markets on the rise, the mid-twentieth century brought about a change in the prevailing industries in Needham, including the budding technology industry.
Despite all of these changes, the town still values its old style town government. Following these values, the people’s representation in local government is still encouraged by town hall meetings and the election of the Board of Selectmen, which serves as the executive branch of the town.
Real Estate in Needham MA
The cost of living in Needham is higher than the average cost in the United States, and higher than the state of Massachusetts. This is likely due to its proximity to Boston. Data from 2016 reveal that the median gross rent in Needham was $1,536. The median home value is $966,300. Today, average prices for Needham MA apartments for rent are $1,700 for a one-bedroom apartment and $2,450 for a two-bedroom apartment.
Transportation
Most Needham residents commute via car, and the average commute time is about 28 minutes. However, there are other ways to get around for those who prefer public transportation.
MBTA Commuter Rail
Four Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority Commuter Rail stations serve the town:
- Hersey (Needham Line)
- Located in the southeast section of Needham
- Time to Boston South Station: about 34 minutes
- 318 parking spaces; bike racks
- Needham Junction (Needham Line)
- The southernmost train station in Needham
- Time to Boston South Station: about 37 minutes
- 129 parking spaces; bike racks
- Needham Center (Needham Line)
- Located in between Needham Junction and Needham Heights in the town center
- Time to Boston South Station: about 40 minutes
- 35 parking spaces and bike racks
- Needham Heights (Needham Line)
- The northernmost train station in Needham
- Time to Boston South Station: about 45 minutes
- 99 parking spaces; bike racks
MBTA Bus – Route 59
In addition to the MBTA train stations, there is the Route 59 MBTA bus, which runs in both directions from Needham Junction to Watertown (Watertown Square station), with stops in Newton. For those without a car looking to either explore other parts of the town of Needham or even get out of town for the day, the MBTA bus is an excellent solution.
Living in Needham MA Apartments for Rent, you will have several transportation options if you are looking to commute into the city, or even around town.
Education
In Needham, you will find five elementary schools, a 6th grade school, a 7th to 8th grade school, one high school, and 5 private/charter schools. The town of Needham is also home to Olin College.
Needham High School
Needham High School is a public school with 1,644 students from 9th through 12th grade. U.S. News & World Report gave Needham high school a gold medal for its academic excellence. There are 14 sports offered to boys and girls who are looking to get involved in athletics.
Olin College
The Franklin W. Olin College of Engineering, also known as Olin College, is a private undergraduate engineering college founded in Needham, MA in 1997. The prominence and stellar reputation of this college is due to its small size and project-based curriculum.
Landmarks & Historic Places
Needham Town Hall
Nestled in the village center, Needham Town Hall, with its golden-domed bell tower, is an iconic part of the town. In fact, the town hall and the public park in front of it are listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Needham Town Hall, completed in 1903 and designed by Winslow and Bigelow, has served as a central location for town hall meetings and other public and government functions ever since.
Echo Bridge
If you fancy a quick and exciting adventure, take a quick trip over to Echo Bridge. It spans the Charles River and provides pedestrians with a passageway between Needham and Newton Upper Falls. This is a historic masonry bridge built in 1876, which totals about 500 feet in length. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, Echo Bridge is an American Water Landmark as well. If you head down to the famous platform beneath the bridge and give a quick shout, you will be able to hear echoes! It is no great mystery how this historic bridge got its name.
Restaurants near Needham, MA Apartments for Rent
When you are sitting in your Needham MA apartments for rent, and you are craving something tasty, you will be satisfied in knowing there are plenty of nearby dining options from which to choose. Here are some recommendations to keep your hunger at bay.
Sweet Basil
Sweet Basil is a local favorite that serves Italian dishes. In addition to pasta, seafood, steak, and chicken dishes, they also have vegetarian and vegan options. This cozy restaurant offers a unique spin on traditional Italian dishes and they have a BYOB policy!
The Farmhouse
If you are looking for an upscale, farm-to-table restaurant, the Farmhouse is well known amongst the locals in Needham. This bar and restaurant serves American food, and you will have plenty of diverse options to choose from depending on your preferences. Some of these include shrimp tacos, fish tacos, farmer’s salad, vegetarian risotto, chicken, and salmon. For those looking for an interesting and delicious cocktail, the Farmhouse offers several options. This restaurant also offers a separate kids menu, so if you would like to bring the family for a special occasion, rest assured that your kids will find something to eat!
Café Fresh
If you need your morning caffeine, you can head directly to Café Fresh for an amazing cup of Joe. They also serve fresh bagels and sandwiches. When you visit, you should definitely try their seasonal coffee, along with their other varieties. To refresh your mind and get away from your usual daily grind, Café Fresh is the perfect spot for you – and it’s located close to many Needham MA apartments for rent.
Masala Art
This contemporary Indian restaurant offers vegan and vegetarian food in addition to the classics. There is a full bar for those looking to enjoy a drink, and a lunch buffet if you are looking for an affordable way to stuff yourself with delicious dishes. Masala Art even offers cooking lessons for those looking to recreate some of these dishes in the comfort of their Needham MA apartments for rent!
Blue On Highland
This is a vibrant American restaurant with live music for those who appreciate a good jazz melody. The menu includes some unique and flavorful dishes like Parmesan fries, Sriracha Shrimp, and crispy calamari. If you are craving dessert, then you are in luck! Their dessert options include apple crisp, chocolate bread pudding, brownie sundae, and chocolate lava cake.
Hearth Pizzeria
Who doesn’t love pizza? The best part of Hearth Pizzeria is that it serves organic pizza, which they make from locally sourced and grown ingredients.
Cook
If you want a neighborhood restaurant with diverse food options, Cook might be the restaurant for you. Meet up with friends, share a flatbread, and try a craft cocktail. Wake up on the weekend and head over to Cook to check out their brunch, offered from 10:30 am to 2:30 pm on Saturdays and Sundays.
In case you have not yet found what you are looking for, don’t fret! Here is a list of some other restaurants in Needham to check out.
- Spiga
- Latina Kitchen & Bar
- The James Pub & Provisions
- Capella Restaurant
- Little Spoon
- Fuji Steak House
- Kostas Pizza & Seafood
- Mandarin Cuisine
- Gari Japanese Fusion Bistro
- Ray’s New Garden
- Sweet Tomatoes Pizza
- Hungry Coyote
Parks and Entertainment in Needham MA
Needham prides itself on its parks and green spaces, so no matter how perfect Needham MA apartments for rent might be, it would be a shame not to take advantage of Needham’s parks and entertainment. There are many outdoor places you can explore, learn, or relax.
Charles River Peninsula
Head over to this 30-acre nature reserve for a day of outdoor activities and greenery. You can explore this grassland from the Charles by boat as well. Either take the path that runs alongside the Charles River or venture to the top of the field to take in the views of the river from above. Whether you want to share the beautiful atmosphere with a friend, or you would prefer some solitude, you are sure to enjoy the Charles River Peninsula.
Cutler Park Reservation
The 800 acres of Cutler Park nestled between Route 128 and the Charles River, is a state-owned nature preserve which provides recreation for people in Needham MA apartments for rent and abroad regardless of the season. In the summer, you will find people hiking, canoeing, and fishing, while in the winter, cross-country skiing draws many winter sports fanatics.
Cutler Park is home to the largest freshwater marsh on the middle Charles River. Parts of the trails run over the marshes, thanks to the installation of boardwalks, which allow for a safe (and dry!) crossing. Over 100 species of birds make their home in this park, making it a haven for birdwatchers. With so many ways to enjoy the outdoors, this park is sure not to disappoint, whatever your interests may be!
Ridge Hill Reservation
Once divided into numerous private properties, Ridge Hill Reservation is now a 352-acre public space dedicated to the protection of wildlife. The Reservation consists of wetlands and forests and offers a trail to those looking to hike. Besides hiking, popular activities include nature study, horseback riding, picnicking, and cross-country skiing.
Needham Town Forest
Needham Town Forest provides locals with trails and amusing sights. Venture into the forest to climb High Rock and then explore this dog-friendly forest. Bonus points if you find the secret toy village with a model train!
DeFazio Park
Whether you enjoy playing sports or watching them, DeFazio Park is going to be your sports hub in Needham. The park includes both turf and grass playing fields, a running track, baseball and softball fields, and even a Tot Lot and picnic area if you are looking to spend the day with your family.
Greene’s Field
Locals love this park at Pickering Street because they can have fun with their children on the playground, shoot some hoops, or enjoy a picnic. The best part is that the park is highly accessible because it is located right in the heart of the town!
Cricket Field
Cricket Field has soccer fields, a playground, and a half basketball court! At this park, locals watch soccer games, bring their young children to play on the playground or shoot some hoops with friends. Cricket Field is located on Hillside Avenue.
Perry Park
Perry Park is yet another Needham park set up for enjoyment by residents of all ages, and even dogs! This park has a softball field, a playground, and a basketball court in addition to open grassy areas. Perry Park is located on the east side of the city.
There is no shortage of parks in Needham, where you can find playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. Here are several other parks that offer great outdoor space to residents.
- Claxton Field
- Memorial Park
- Mills Field
- Walker-Gordon Field
- Riverside Park
- Avery Field
Architrave
Architrave is not your average toy store. This innovative, multipurpose space also functions as a play space and art gallery, displaying local works of art. As a bonus, Architrave offers free coffee and tea to its customers!
Needham Bowlaway
Whether you prefer bumpers or gutters, Needham Bowlaway can provide a fun indoor activity for you and your friends or family. This 8-lane candlepin bowling alley has standard lane rental as well as party packages.
Theater in Needham: Needham Community Theatre and Arlekin Players Theatre
Art lovers can certainly appreciate the theater scene in Needham. There are two main sources of entertainment: the Needham Community Theatre and the Arlekin Players Theatre. By attending shows produced by the Needham Community Theatre, residents of Needham MA apartments for rent have the opportunity to support the arts in their own community, while enjoying a high quality performance. In addition, the Needham Community Theatre recently started a children’s musical program, providing all members of the community with a space to express themselves.
The Arlekin Players Theatre was founded in 2009 by a group of Russian newcomers to the area and plays are performed in both English and Russian (with subtitles, so that all can enjoy!). Their goal is to bring the community together and to educate through their art – a strategy that has won them numerous awards. Be sure to expand your horizons and check out a performance by this award-winning company!
Needham Public Library
The Needham Public Library first opened in 1888 and shared a building with two grocery stores and the post office. It has since relocated to the parcel across the street from Needham Memorial Park. The library offers WiFi and computers for those looking for a place to work. In addition to its 175,000 books, newspapers, and magazines, the library is a resource for DVD’s, CD’s and e-books. Anyone living in Needham MA apartments for rent is eligible to obtain a library card that gives you free access to the Needham Public Library.
New or Notable Apartment Buildings & Complexes
The Kendrick
The Kendrick is a brand-new luxury rental apartment community that opened in 2017. This modern apartment community features a pool, an outdoor space with a fire pit, a theater, courtyards, and a fitness center with a climbing wall and spa. Of the 390 units, 98 are available to those at or below 80% of the Area Median Income, creating opportunities for affordable housing. The Kendrick has options for studio, one bedroom, two bedroom and three bedroom apartments. For those with cars, there is plenty of space to park in the parking garage.
Modera Needham
On the edge of the parks next to the Charles River is the Modera Needham, another new apartment community built in 2018. Residents of the Modera have access to the Clubhouse, which includes a game room, coffee house, theater, grilling area, saltwater pool, and fitness center. In this 136-apartment community, you will find a mix of spacious two bedroom and three bedroom apartments nestled within the 52 three-story townhomes. In addition, there are large one bedroom, two bedroom, and three-bedroom apartments within the Modera’s five-story building.
Charles River Landing
Charles River Landing also offers luxurious modern Needham MA apartments for rent on the banks of the Charles River. Amenities include a clubhouse, swimming pool, fitness center, grilling area, and business center. They also have a courtyard with an outdoor fireplace so you can enjoy the outdoors regardless of the chilly weather, as well as a coffee bar to get you going in the morning. There are plenty of parking options, including spots for guests. They definitely built this complex for entertainment!
What it’s Like to Live in Needham MA Apartments for Rent
Needham, MA has ample green spaces and a strong community feel. There are many opportunities for people to come together as a community, from theater to sports to the historic town hall meetings. Needham has a good education system, with plenty of schools from which to choose.
If you are getting a little stir-crazy in your apartment, or if you simply enjoy the outdoors, Needham has many beautiful parks to explore. There are plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from for a fun night out with friends, family, or loved ones. Finally, for those looking to travel into Boston – for either work or for leisure – even without a car, it is an easy trip into the city via train, and you can choose from one of the many stations in Needham.
