Just four miles from downtown Boston, Brookline is one of the largest New England “towns”, as opposed to “cities” like Boston and Cambridge. Part of Norfolk County, Brookline is loved by its residents for having excellent public transportation, a top-tier school system, livable neighborhoods with tree-lined streets and open green space, and its preservation of historic character.
The town, which began as an agricultural community in the 17th century, became a streetcar suburb of Boston during the mid-19th century. By the early 20th century, most of the farmland has transformed into residential areas supported by mass transit. Unlike many other Massachusetts towns, Brookline never had a significant industrial base. Currently less than 6% of the land is zoned for commercial use. (Town of Brookline)
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Coolidge Corner is one of the most well-known neighborhoods of Brookline, with the Green Line C Train running along Beacon Street and the collection of restaurants and retail located here at the intersection of Beacon Street and Harvard Street.
The most commonly known neighborhoods include Coolidge Corner, Washington Square, Brookline Village, Cottage Farm, Pill Hill, and Chestnut Hill.
The Brookline public school system has continually been ranked one of the top school systems in the state and nationally according to U.S News and World Report, Money.com, The Boston Globe, and Boston Magazine. Unlike many towns and cities, students attend the same same school from kindergarten thru eight grade before heading off to Brookline High School. There is also a pre-school / early education program offered by the town known as BEEP.
According to the Brookline School Department, the public schools serves over 7,500 students in grades kindergarten thru twelve. There are eight elementary schools (k-8) and one high school, Brookline High School. The elementary schools are: Baker, Coolidge Corner, Driscoll, Heath, Lawrence, Lincoln, Pierce and Runkle.
Brookline residents are passionate about their green space and the town has focused on adding to it over the years. Although parts of Brookline have a wonderful urban feel, most streets are lined by beautiful old-growth trees and you can typically find a park or green very close by. There are also a number of dog parks and dog friendly parks in town. According to the Park’s Department website, you will find over 70 parks, fields, gardens and playgrounds.
THE PUBLIC LIBRARY OF BROOKLINE
The Library as an institution has great historical significance. While not the first public library in Massachusetts, it was the first to be organized under May, 1851 state legislation allowing communities to tax themselves for such purposes. In a vote at the March 30, 1857 Town Meeting, the citizens of Brookline established a free library. (From The Public Library of Brookline Website)
BROOKLINE HISTORICAL SOCIETY
The Brookline Historical Society is dedicated to the documentation and interpretation of Brookline’s diverse history, to collecting, preserving, and maintaining artifacts of Brookline’s past, and to sharing the story of the town and its people with residents and visitors alike.
BROOKLINE NEIGHBORHOOD ALLIANCE
The Brookline Neighborhood Alliance (BNA) is a network of Brookline neighborhood associations that was founded in 2000–2001. It emerged from the Future Search Planning Initiative that was sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Brookline after guest speakers explained how neighborhood associations had formed alliances in other communities.
Brookline Booksmith is a charming bookstore located in the heart of Brookline. This beloved independent bookstore has been a fixture of the community since 1961, and has been a beloved destination for book lovers ever since. From popular bestsellers to lesser-known gems, this bookstore has a vast selection of titles. Visit Brookline Booksmith to travel to the soul of literature and experience the magic of this community!
Washington Square Tavern is an upscale neighborhood gastropub with delicious food, fantastic wine/beer list, and great service. If you are in the Brookline area, this warm and welcoming restaurant is a must-try!
If you want a great Jewish meal, Zaftigs Delicatessen should be your number one pick! An old-fashioned style Deli with traditional ambience and excellent food!
Brookline Booksmith is a charming bookstore located in the heart of Brookline. This beloved independent bookstore has been a fixture of the community since 1961, and has been a beloved destination for book lovers ever since. From popular bestsellers to lesser-known gems, this bookstore has a vast selection of titles. Visit Brookline Booksmith to travel to the soul of literature and experience the magic of this community!
Washington Square Tavern is an upscale neighborhood gastropub with delicious food, fantastic wine/beer list, and great service. If you are in the Brookline area, this warm and welcoming restaurant is a must-try!
If you want a great Jewish meal, Zaftigs Delicatessen should be your number one pick! An old-fashioned style Deli with traditional ambience and excellent food!
Take a healthy break from your busy routine and stop by at Life Alive Organic Cafe! If you are serious about eating well and enjoying great food, Life Alive is your place.
If you or someone you know live in North Brookline, South End, Back Bay, or surrounding areas and are thinking of moving, we have good news for you! We have an active buyer looking for a 2-bedroom condo in Brookline and surrounding neighborhoods.
How is the market? The question that people always bring up. Here is a preview of the Brookline market for the last 3 months and in 2022.
This spacious 4-bed Brookline townhouse just sold! Located in the wonderful Chestnut Hill neighborhood, this 2500-square feet property was recently renovated, patiently awaiting the next family to call it home!
If you or someone you know live in North Brookline, South End, Back Bay, or surrounding areas and are thinking of moving, we have good news for you! We have an active buyer looking for a 2-bedroom condo in Brookline and surrounding neighborhoods.
How is the market? The question that people always bring up. Here is a preview of the Brookline market for the last 3 months and in 2022.
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