The name Cochituate originally comes from the Algonquin language, where it means "swift river." Come for a visit and you might swiftly consider calling this place home.
Cochituate, a census-designated place of just under 6,600 residents, is located in the Town of Wayland in Middlesex County, Massachusetts
The name Cochituate originally comes from the Algonquin language, where it means "swift river." Come for a visit and you might swiftly consider calling this place home.
Cochituate, a census-designated place of just under 6,600 residents, is located in the Town of Wayland in Middlesex County, Massachusetts. Although folks here would rather you just called it a town, as it kind of has more of a ring to it, than "census-designated place." It's located just on the western fringes of the the Greater Boston Area, with many locals commuting into downtown. People from all around flock here in the summer to visit Cochituate State Park because of its beautiful forested lake, which is ideal for picnics, fishing or just lounging on the beach. You can't blame Cochituate residents for feeling a little smug about where they live--many like to think they've got the best of both worlds. That is, quick and easy access to one of America's largest and oldest cities and beautiful nature and countryside on the doorstep.
If a life in Cochituate sounds like a life worth living, then you are not alone. Those looking at an apartment in Cochituate should understand that around 12% of residents are in rented accommodation. With a bit of persistence, it is certainly is possible to find an apartment for rent that suits your needs. One and two-bedroom apartments comprise 71% of rental properties, so with a bit of eagle-eyed searching one can definitely snatch that ideal condo. However, be patient and allow at least one month in order to find a place. As they say, good things come to those who wait!
Well Ain't They Some Pretty Looking Houses
Cochituate has a range of architectural styles including: Georgian, Colonial Revival and Shingle houses. This is fantastic news for all you fans of cute and colorful historic buildings. This being New England, it's hardly surprising that almost a third (31%) of the town's houses were built before 1950. It sure gives the place quite the charming ambiance. Compared to the Massachusetts average, rents tend to be on the pricier side, but since many people commute to neighboring Boston, where salaries are good, it shouldn't be too much of a problem. Regardless, there will be plenty of choice for accommodation, quite a few of the formerly single unit shingle buildings have been divided up into apartment complexes. Most of the rental accommodation around here has been built, renovated or furnished to a very high standard. No need to worry about leaky plumbing, poor insulation or drafty windows. Also keep in mind that the cost of living here is 30% above the national average.
Leafy Suburbs or a House by the Lake
It's not surprising that rental homes in Cochituate and Wayland as a whole are considered to be desirable places to live. You pretty much have two choices as to the type of area you live around these parts. Either in one of the town's winding and leafy residential streets, or down by one of the lakes. Don't fret, though, as either is an excellent choice. Cochituate covers a small area of just 3.7 square miles, so don't think that by choosing one location over another, that you'll be making a compromise. The town occupies an adjacent area of land immediately north of the Massachusetts Turnpike toll road. Owning a car is pretty much essential here; it's the main mode of transport for locals who commute into Boston. Otherwise, the nearest station with commuter trains into downtown is in West Natick, a 15-minute drive south, where parking is $4 daily. There is also a local bus service operating between Cochituate and other towns in Greater Boston.
The Next Steps
Once you've uncovered that gem of an apartment, you should be prepared for the next steps. Yes, filling out paperwork and going over the small print is a little boring and tedious. Just continue being patient for that little bit longer, and you'll have your hands on the keys to that Cochituate apartment. Expect landlords and letting agents vet you--they'll require a background and credit check. In most cases, they will also want to see your proof of income or funds in order to rent an apartment. Don't worry though, they just want to make sure you'll be paying the rent on time each month, which of course you will!
This sure isn't the big city! As lovely as it is, don't expect a huge amount of difference from one part of Cochituate to the other. However, this doesn't bother local residents one bit. If it did they'd all be living 20 miles east in Boston. However, whether you decide to live by one of the lakes or on a leafy street, it will make a difference to how you experience living here.
Cochituate Lake: Although it's located in Cochituate State Park, Residential houses on the nearby streets have private access to the shore of the lake with their own motorboat and jetty. Perfect for fishing and water sports enthusiasts.
Main Street: Given its name, it's no surprise that most amenities are scattered along Main Street. You'll find the local Starbucks and Dunkin' Donuts here. J.J McKay's Restaurant & Pub and Liberty Pizza are highlights of this area.
Dudley Pond: Another neighborhood with waterfront properties, but they surround Cochituate's smaller but equally pretty lake. There are a few apartment complexes around here too. You'll also find The Dudley Chateau, a fun nautical-themed joint with views out on to the pond.
Ask a local what it's like living here, and they'll probably tell you that it isn't too shabby. Who could argue with that? There's lakes and forests right on the doorstep, and cosmopolitan Boston is just a short 25-minute drive, for those times when you want a bit of big city fun. If you'd like to make friends with some of the residents, go grab a drink or something to eat at The Dudley Chateau and admire the view over the lake. With such a great quality of life, you'll hardly believe you're just 20 miles from the downtown of one of America's largest cities. Shhhhh, though! It's one of the area's best-kept secrets.
