Country land in Massachusetts
How much good country Massachusetts has, where it is, and what to know before you buy: growing season, homeschool rules, internet and prices. "Good country" here means land past the suburbs and their buffer, off the busiest roads, scored by the Land Finder.
The best counties for country living
Ranked by how much of each county scores as good country (fast-growing counties ranked a little lower).
| County (towns) | Good country | Growth | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Berkshire County Pittsfield, Cheshire | 83% | -0.1%/yr | Score a spot |
| Franklin County South Deerfield, Deerfield | 79% | -0.1%/yr | Score a spot |
| Hampshire County Northampton, Easthampton Town | 48% | +0.4%/yr | Score a spot |
| Hampden County Holyoke, West Springfield Town | 23% | -0.1%/yr | Score a spot |
| Worcester County Rutland, Spencer | 2% | +0.5%/yr | Score a spot |
| Dukes County Vineyard Haven, Woods Hole | 0% | +0.5%/yr | Score a spot |
| Nantucket County Madaket, Nantucket | 0% | +0.7%/yr | Score a spot |
| Bristol County Fall River, North Westport | 0% | +0.4%/yr | Score a spot |
| Plymouth County Kingston, North Plymouth | 0% | +0.5%/yr | Score a spot |
| Middlesex County Hanscom AFB, Lexington | 0% | +0.5%/yr | Score a spot |
Homeschool rules
Approval in advance by the local school committee or superintendent. Districts usually ask for an education plan: the subjects or curriculum, the materials, the hours of instruction, and the parent's qualifications (no college degree required). Notice deadlines vary by district (often at least 14 days before you start). The district may ask for an assessment, such as a standardized test or another method you agree to. Each district has its own policy and forms.
Not legal advice; laws change. Verify with the state and your school district. Source
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A shortlisting guide from public data (Census, USGS, USDA, NOAA, FCC, FEMA) and our principles. Visit the land and verify water, septic, zoning and access with the county.