“I’d rather shovel dirt—in the middle of winter, with a spoon.”
Such was my Boston-dwelling friend Alison’s declaration when I told her that, after eight years of living in Beantown, I’d be moving 39.5 miles north—with a new commute time of roughly three hours a day, door-to-door, round trip.
However, when I mentioned the commute would be from Newburyport…my friend changed her tune. “Oh, I love that town!” she chirped. “Maybe it’s worth it.”
I can truly say that, for me, the commute has indeed been worth it. Is it the best time of the day? Not quite. There’s a transportation schedule to live by and, if driving or taking the bus, almost certain traffic to contend with. However, I’ve learned to prevent commuter burn-out by employing a three-part strategy: 1) I work from home once or twice a week, 2) on my Boston days I spend the one-hour bus ride reading a book, catching up on the news or work, taking a nap, or chipping away at my never-ending stream of email, and 3) occasionally I drive in so I can meet with Boston friends after hours and enjoy the city while not obsessing over the bus schedule.
And, to my surprise, I’ve found that several colleagues live and commute from here too. Clearly I’m not the only one who thinks it’s worth it.
How I Got Here
About ten years ago I moved to Boston, and discovered Newburyport on a trip to Plum Island. I was hooked! As a nature-loving gal who also enjoys a lively, historic downtown, it was impossible not to fall in love. Though perhaps small in size, Newburyport offers an impressive array of attractions including beaches, farms, a lovely river, expansive marshes, and parks with activities like kayaking, sailing, boating, fishing, and renowned bird-watching. In addition you can count on fabulous restaurants, delightful shops and galleries, an independent theatre, a thriving playhouse, good schools, a popular bookshop, several houses of worship, historic architecture, and best of all, an eclectic, dynamic community.
Trying out a new town
For years I mulled over whether to move here. Then one day, I went into reconnaissance mode—renting out my Boston condo for a few months so I could rent in Newburyport and experience the reality of living here and commuting to my office. Overall it was a very positive experience, even during the cold months of October–December, so I figured it would be even better year-round. Last year, I made the full move.
Benefits of living in the Port
True, in some ways this town may be quieter than a typical Boston neighborhood. But I’ve found it easy to be involved here. There are book clubs, gyms, a tennis club, coffee shops, a wonderful arts community, loads of classes and continuing education courses, plus a top-notch farmer’s market selling local food and hand-made wares.
Here’s the skinny: I get to live in a gem of a town while spending several days a week reconnecting with my Boston office and my Boston circle of friends. An added bonus is a short 1.5-hour drive to New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Living in Newburyport and commuting to Boston may not fit everyone’s lifestyle, but it clicked for me. I look forward to spending more time here.
Commuting Choices
Are you thinking about living in the Newburyport area -or- commuting to the Hub of Massachusetts? You’ve got choices.
There are two bus lines and a commuter rail. Or you might try a carpool, vanpool, or even driving by yourself. If you’re able to, incorporating even one day of telecommuting can make a difference in the tone of your work week—and ultimately, the fabric of your life.
The Park and Ride
This is where you can pick up either the C&J or Coach Bus line.
- no parking fee
- cozy bus station with free Daily News, donuts, and coffee!
- friendly, helpful staff
– – C&J Railways
Newburyport to South Station (connects to T redline). Stops at Haymarket Square on way to South Station. Free wi-fi! Service all day. Last bus back to Nbpt is 1 a.m.
For fares, schedules, or more information, visit www.ridecj.com/boston
– – Coach Bus
This is the bus I take, and usually it’s the last morning bus at 7:50 a.m. Most days, I arrive at my stop—right near my office building on St. James and Arlington Street—at just about 9 a.m. (give or take a few minutes). Perfect!
The driver also stops at Haymarket, Government Center, Park Street, and Copley Square. Service during commuter times. Last bus back to Newburyport is 6:50 p.m.
For fares, schedules, or more information, visit www.coachco.com
MBTA Commuter Train
- Rail trail connects to North Train station, bike racks available on platforms (no fee) if you choose to ride your two-wheeler to the station.
- Become a Hubway member and ride a rental from North Station to your office!
- Train provides scenic, smooth ride through the marshes/woods of Essex county on way into Boston
- Arrival time unaffected by traffic
- Newburyport is the last stop on the commute home, so no worries about missing your station if you just happen to fall asleep!
For fares, schedules, or more information, check out the Rockport Line at http://www.mbta.com
Driving
- In my experience, almost never any traffic on 95 south to Rt 1 connector
- Use EZ pass over Tobin Bridge
- Flexibility
Remember to consider gas prices, traffic, and parking in Boston.
Want to share a ride? Check out http://www.commute.com/commuters/vanpool_routes or google newburyport commute to discover other options.
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More to come soon from the road (and perhaps air)!
-Monika