Franklin, Massachusetts
Blog/Norton Area/Franklin
Town Guide

Living in Franklin, MAComplete Guide to Homes & Community

By Team ChundiUpdated Apr 202611 min read

36,745

Population

$695K

Median Home Price

$146K

Median Income

11

Public Schools

48 min

To Boston

Why Franklin?

Situated in Norfolk County, Franklin is a dynamic town that offers a blend of historic character and modern amenities. With its own MBTA commuter rail stop on the Franklin/Foxboro Line, it provides convenient access to Boston while maintaining a distinct suburban identity. The town is home to Dean College, which adds a vibrant, youthful energy to the community.

Franklin presents a compelling value proposition for homebuyers. The median home price is approximately $695,000, often for well-maintained Colonial, Cape, and Ranch-style homes on generous lots. This offers a significant advantage in space and property size compared to communities closer to the city, where similar budgets might only secure a smaller townhouse or condo.

The town is served by the Franklin Public School District, which includes 11 schools. Franklin's combination of direct transit access, a wide range of housing options, and a bustling downtown area makes it an attractive choice for those seeking a well-rounded suburban lifestyle.

Neighborhoods

Where to Live in Franklin

Brandywine Village

This area features a collection of well-kept homes with a consistent architectural style. The neighborhood is known for its community amenities and landscaped common areas, providing a cohesive and pleasant environment.

Community AmenitiesColonial StylesManaged Community

Charles River Farms

Known for its larger, executive-style homes on spacious lots, Charles River Farms offers a more upscale living experience. Properties here often feature custom designs, ample square footage, and private, wooded settings.

Large LotsExecutive HomesPrivate Settings

Franklin Chase

This neighborhood offers a variety of home styles, from classic Colonials to more contemporary designs. It's a popular area with convenient access to local roads and highways, making it a practical choice for commuters.

Varied Home StylesCommuter AccessEstablished Neighborhood
Public Schools

Franklin Public School District

The town of Franklin is served by the Franklin Public School District. The district operates a total of 11 schools to serve the community. We have listed the schools below for your reference.

Visit the Franklin Public Schools website for the most current information on enrollment, programs, and attendance zones. Prospective buyers are encouraged to research school options independently to determine which schools serve specific properties.

School NameGradesType
Franklin High School9-12High
Annie Sullivan Middle School6-8Middle
Horace Mann Middle School6-8Middle
Remington Middle School6-8Middle
Davis Thayer ElementaryK-5Elementary
J.F. Kennedy MemorialK-5Elementary
Helen Keller ElementaryK-5Elementary
Oak Street ElementaryK-5Elementary
Parmenter ElementaryK-5Elementary
Gerald M. Parmenter SchoolPKPreschool
E.C.C.PKPreschool
Cost of Living

Housing & Taxes in Franklin

$695,000

Median Home Price

$2,500/mo

Average Rent

$145,773

Median Income

$11.42

Property Tax Rate

Dining

Top Restaurants in Franklin

3 Restaurant

A popular spot for contemporary American cuisine with a creative twist. Known for its lively atmosphere and inventive dishes.

AmericanUpscale Casual

GlenPharmer Distillery

Offers a unique dining experience with an on-site distillery, craft cocktails, and a menu of elevated pub fare.

DistilleryGastropub

The Shed Craft Bar & Kitchen

A go-to for gourmet burgers, comfort food, and an extensive selection of local and regional craft beers.

BurgersCraft Beer

The Tavern On Central

A classic American tavern with a cozy, welcoming ambiance, serving traditional favorites and seasonal specials.

TavernAmerican

Raillery Public House

A modern pub with a focus on high-quality ingredients, offering an extensive menu from small plates to full entrees.

Public HouseModern American

King Street Cafe

A local favorite for breakfast and lunch, known for its friendly service and classic diner-style comfort food.

BreakfastCafe
Attractions

Things to Do in Franklin

Franklin Public Library

Visit the first public library in America, a historic landmark that hosts numerous community events and programs.

HistoricCommunity

The Black Box

An intimate theater in downtown Franklin presenting a varied schedule of music, theater, and dance performances.

Performing ArtsLive Music

Franklin Historical Museum

Explore the town's rich past through exhibits and collections that tell the story of Franklin's history.

MuseumLocal History

Altitude Trampoline Park

An indoor park with trampolines, foam pits, and other attractions for active entertainment.

RecreationEntertainment

Fairmount Fruit Farm

A local farm offering seasonal apple picking, fresh produce, and a classic New England farm experience.

FarmSeasonal

Dean College

The college campus adds to the town's cultural landscape, with public events and performances often available.

CollegeCulture
Outdoors

Parks & Recreation

Franklin State Forest

An 843-acre state forest with an extensive network of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

DelCarte Recreation Area

A 130-acre area with ponds for fishing and kayaking, as well as scenic walking trails through woodlands.

SNETT

The Southern New England Trunkline Trail offers a scenic path for walking, running, and biking through the region.

Franklin Town Common

A historic common in the center of town that hosts farmers markets, concerts, and community gatherings.

Commuting from Franklin

  • Boston: 48 min drive (41 miles)
  • Providence: 30 min drive (22 miles)
  • MBTA: Franklin/Foxboro Line
  • Highways: I-495, Route 140

Town Services

  • Government: Council-Manager
  • Trash: Town Service
  • Water/Sewer: Town Service

Franklin Weather by Season

Summer

Avg. 82°F

Fall

Avg. 60°F

Winter

Avg. 37°F

Spring

Avg. 58°F

Thinking About Moving to Franklin?

Our team can help you find the right home. We specialize in the Franklin area and can provide insights on the local market.