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Living in Brighton

Part of the Allston-Brighton neighborhood, Brighton is the much quieter residential half that mixes longtime locals with students.

Located right near Boston University and Boston College, Brighton was once a part of Cambridge. Known as “Little Cambridge,” it was a prosperous rural area. A major market for cattle in 1775, it was a supplier of food to the Continental Army, but legislation post war began to hurt the thriving meat industry. Voting to separate from Cambridge in 1807, Little Cambridge became Brighton.

Brighton continues to change. From farmland to a blue-collar neighborhood, Brighton’s next phase is in progress. In 2016, New Balance opened headquarters here. Since that time, it has been driving development in the area. Businesses are attracted to Brighton because of its relative affordability and wanting to get in on the next hot spot.

 

Large scenic estates and beautiful nature reservations make up Chestnut Hill. Look closely and you may even see a celebrity or two.

Home to both Boston College and Pine Manor, Chestnut Hill is just six miles from downtown Boston. Made up of Brookline, Boston and Newton, it gets its name from several small hills that overlook the Chestnut Hill Reservoir.

Largely farmland until the 1900s, parts of Chestnut Hill are now on the National Register of Historic Places. Frederick Law Olmstead, who designed Central Park, developed the area around the reservoir. Today, Chestnut Hill is made up of estates, mansions and lovely developments.

 

Who Lives There

Longtime residents and students. Brighton is also home to St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center and Franciscan Children’s, making it a great spot for health care workers.

 

Transportation

Brighton is accessible by the MBTA B, C and D Green Lines. The MBTA 57, 64, 65, 66, 70, 70A, 86, 501 and 503 bus lines are available. There is also a commuter rail stop at Boston Landing.

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