Georgetown

Welcome to Georgetown, MA

Nestled in the scenic hills and coastal plains of northeastern Massachusetts, Georgetown is a charming town that offers a perfect blend of small-town tranquility and modern conveniences. Known for its rich history, strong sense of community, and access to beautiful outdoor spaces, Georgetown provides residents and visitors alike with a peaceful, suburban lifestyle within easy commuting distance of Boston and the North Shore. Whether you're drawn to its historical roots, vibrant local culture, or family-friendly atmosphere, Georgetown is a town where tradition meets opportunity.

History of Georgetown

Georgetown, Massachusetts, is a town steeped in history, dating back to its settlement in 1639. Originally a part of Rowley, it was known as Rowley’s West Parish before separating and becoming Georgetown in 1838. The town was founded by a group of Yorkshire families led by Reverend Ezekiel Rogers, who sought a new beginning in the New World. These early settlers chose the fertile land along Penn Brook, gradually establishing mills and even a shoe company as the area developed.

The natural beauty of Georgetown has always been a key feature, with early explorers marveling at local landmarks like Prospect Hill and Baldpate Hill, the latter being the highest point in Essex County. Despite early challenges such as Indian raids, Georgetown steadily grew, and today it proudly maintains its historical roots through the efforts of the Georgetown Historical Society and the preservation of historical artifacts like the "Old Nancy" cannon from the Revolutionary War.

Local Culture

Georgetown has managed to preserve its small-town charm while offering the amenities of a residential suburb within commuting distance of Boston. The community is tightly-knit, with a deep appreciation for its history and natural surroundings.

The town's active historical society keeps the stories of Georgetown's past alive, while residents enjoy outdoor activities in nearby spaces like the Georgetown-Rowley State Forest. The blend of rural beauty and suburban convenience makes Georgetown appealing to those seeking tranquility without sacrificing accessibility to larger cities.

Sports and education play a significant role in the town’s culture. The Georgetown Royals, the high school’s sports teams, are a source of local pride, fostering a sense of community through their events.

The community also cherishes its natural heritage, with frequent outdoor activities in the surrounding forests, parks, and conservation areas that help preserve Georgetown’s rustic charm.

Housing Market Overview

Georgetown’s housing market, as of October 2024, reflects a dynamic period of adjustment and opportunity. Though the median sale price of homes has decreased to $705,000, marking a 24.2% drop from the previous year, the demand for properties remains strong. This decline in prices could be a sign of market correction, but with median price per square foot increasing by 25.6%, homes are still appreciating in value.

The market remains highly competitive, with homes selling for around 1% above asking price and going under contract in an average of 21 days. Some "hot" properties can go pending in as few as 14 days, often fetching up to 4% over the listing price. For buyers, this means Georgetown presents opportunities for securing a home, but competition is fierce, and acting quickly is key.

Relocation Tips

Moving to Georgetown offers an opportunity to join a community rich in history and natural beauty, but preparation is essential for a smooth transition. Here are some relocation tips to help newcomers settle in:

1. Work with Local Movers: Hire movers familiar with Georgetown’s unique layout and traffic to ensure an efficient move.
2. Research Neighborhoods: Georgetown offers various neighborhoods, each with its own character. Investigate the area that best fits your needs, especially if local schools are a priority.
3. Set Up Utilities Early: Georgetown has its own public services, so be sure to set up water, energy, and other utilities well before moving in.
4. Handle Address Updates: Don’t forget to update your address with USPS, banks, and other important services to avoid delays in mail or bills.
5. Explore Local Attractions: Get to know the area by visiting local highlights like the Georgetown-Rowley State Forest or historic downtown Georgetown to become familiar with the town’s charm.
6. Plan for Traffic: Consider local traffic patterns when planning your move, and avoid peak hours or days with local events that could complicate your moving schedule.
7. Ask for Local Recommendations: Whether it’s finding a reliable service provider or the best place for a cup of coffee, locals are often the best resource for getting settled.
8. Be Prepared for Property Taxes: With rising property values, it’s wise to account for potential increases in property taxes, which can come as a result of Georgetown’s thriving real estate market.

Dining and Entertainment in Georgetown, MA

Georgetown, MA, offers a variety of dining and entertainment options, catering to both casual outings and unique experiences for residents and visitors alike.

• The Spot Georgetown is a popular local tavern known for its inviting atmosphere. It serves a mix of creative American comfort food and offers a well-stocked bar featuring twelve taps, making it a perfect spot for a casual meal or a gathering with friends.
• Café Sarina stands out for its farm-to-table approach, offering locally-sourced ingredients in a rustic, relaxing environment. With an outdoor patio and a garden view, it provides a serene dining experience. Adjacent to the café is Kallie’s Kones, which serves award-winning ice cream from Richardson's, a nearby family-owned farm, making it a favorite spot for dessert lovers.
• Garden Golf at Café Sarina offers a unique form of entertainment, with mini-golf set in a beautifully maintained garden. The course features water elements and natural greenery, blending fun and nature into a charming experience for families and friends.
• For those seeking a creative outlet, Café Sarina & Brush hosts interactive crafting activities. Both children (ages 6+) and adults can create their own wood signs, adding a hands-on artistic experience to the entertainment scene in Georgetown.

Parks and Recreation

Georgetown is surrounded by lush forests, ponds, and open spaces, offering plenty of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts.

• Georgetown-Rowley State Forest is located south of the town, providing ample trails for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the outdoors.
• Crane Pond Wildlife Management Area to the north offers a serene setting for wildlife observation and nature walks, perfect for those who enjoy peaceful outdoor experiences.
• Other notable areas include the Lufkins Brook Area and the Boxford State Forest, located to the west and southwest, respectively, providing even more opportunities for hiking and outdoor recreation.
• The town also boasts two significant water bodies: Rock Pond and Pentucket Pond, which likely offer fishing, canoeing, or kayaking opportunities.
• Camp Leslie, situated along the shores of Pentucket Pond, has even served as a filming location, adding a touch of local flair to the area. It may also offer camping and other outdoor activities for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Georgetown.

Schools and Education

Georgetown is home to a well-regarded public school system that plays an integral role in the community. The local schools include:

• Georgetown High School, known for its strong sports culture with teams named the Royals.
• Georgetown Middle School and Penn Brook Elementary School complete the district, offering education from the early years through to high school.

The school district enjoys solid support from the local community, and it emphasizes providing a quality education. While specific ratings or detailed academic programs weren’t mentioned, the school system is seen as a key part of the community’s identity.

Commute and Accessibility

For residents who work in larger cities like Boston, Georgetown provides a suburban lifestyle with easy access to major transportation routes.

• Georgetown Park and Ride is a convenient option for commuters, offering 135 open parking spaces available 24/7. The lot is free to use, and overnight parking is allowed, with fencing and lighting to ensure security.
• Georgetown is well-situated for access to Interstate 95 (to the west), Route 1 (to the east), and Route 133, which runs directly through the town. These major routes make it easy for residents to commute to Boston and other nearby areas while enjoying the peaceful setting of a suburban community.

Georgetown's location on the edge of the coastal plain and hilly regions of northeastern Massachusetts makes it an ideal place for those who appreciate natural beauty but need quick access to larger urban centers. The combination of small-town charm, outdoor recreation, and easy commuting make Georgetown a desirable location for many families and individuals looking for a quieter, yet connected, way of life.

Real Estate in Georgetown

• Georgetown Commercial Properties
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• Georgetown Co-Ops
• Georgetown Single-Family Homes
• Georgetown Land & Lots
• Georgetown Manufactured Homes
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• Other Properties in Georgetown
• Georgetown Townhomes