New Bedford is, perhaps, best known for its rich maritime history. An important fishing hub since Colonial days, it’s renowned for its flourishing whaling industry of the 19th century. The city remains a major commercial fishing port.
Prospective residents are increasingly drawn to New Bedford, where a price for a home is less expensive, on average, than that in adjacent communities like Dartmouth and Fairhaven. More than 200 housing units were created and completed, or near completion, in 2024, and several public schools in the area have recently undergone extensive facility renovations.
The city has another thing going for it: This spring, the long-awaited South Coast Rail project will be completed, connecting Boston to New Bedford by train for the first time in 65 years. The trip will take about an hour and a half.
“People recognize that it will represent one more good reason to live in New Bedford,” said Mayor Jon Mitchell.
What does a perfect day in the city look like for those who live there? “To start off with, a jog along the Cove Harbor walk,” the mayor said of the 5,550-foot trail that sits atop a hurricane barrier, offering views of Clark’s Cove and the waters of Buzzards Bay.
Many residents might follow that up with lunch from one of the many Portuguese restaurants in the city, a reminder of immigration driven by the city’s maritime industry. Every summer, the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament, one of the largest celebrations of Portuguese culture, takes over the city for several days. “They come from all over to go to that feast,” said Maggie Tomkiewicz, a real estate broker who was born and raised in New Bedford.
To end the day: perhaps a concert or play at the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center, which is currently undergoing a $37-million expansion. “At a time in America where people crave novelty, this is the place that has it,” the mayor said of the city.
Still curious what living in New Bedford is like? Here’s more information to get you started:
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