Waving from the ocean liner / The native Indians behind that / Rock, rock and roll / Plymouth Rock, roll over -- From "Roll Plymouth Rock," by Brian Wilson
As the site of the Pilgrim's first colony, Plymouth, Massachusetts has a special place in American history. In fact, Plymouth has 21 locations listed in the National Register of Historic Places. With a population of more than 50,000, America's Hometown has one of New England's best locations. Just as the first Mayflower and its passengers found safe harbor on the shores of Plymouth, so will you.
Moving In
The cost of living here is higher than the national average, but it may be a small price to pay to live in one of the many postcard-perfect communities in the country. Other than a humid climate due to its coastal location and a snowy winter, there's not much to grouch about in this corner of Massachusetts. Give yourself at least a month when looking for housing for rent in Plymouth, since it normally takes 34 days from the start of the search to finally move in. Bring the usual documents, like proof of income and bank statements, as well as a security deposit equal to a month's rent and sometimes one month's advance rent.
Neighborhoods
Plymouth Center or Downtown may be the most prominent neighborhoods, serving as the geographical point of reference for the rest, but the communities all have a distinct New England character and a generally safe hometown atmosphere that make them so appealing.
North: This lively business hub is anchored by the legendary Cordage Company, a 45-acre rope factory that now houses offices, retail shops, medical centers, and restaurants such as RooBar, a popular spot with an industrial vintage vibe. Cordage Commerce Center also has its own commuter rail station. This neighborhood has a residential mix of row houses and single family homes.
Center: The heart of Plymouth's heritage oozes Old World charm, as soothing as a piping bowl of New England clam chowder on a cold day. The Pilgrim Rock, the Pilgrim Hall Museum, and Mayfair II are the star attractions in a town of well-preserved historic structures, including the Old Post Office Building -- which is now a retail center. Downtown also offers eclectic shopping and leisure options. It's the best place to search for duplexes for rent, serviced apartments, and other rental apartments in Plymouth.
West: Several residential neighborhoods lie west of Pilgrims Highway, such as Algonquin Heights and the communities surrounding Micajah Pond and Billington Sea. It may be a ways from Downtown, but locals get plenty of retail therapy at The Colony Place, the region's biggest open-air lifestyle mall. Farther south, there's also the 425,000-square-foot Grove at Plymouth, formerly Shops at 5, near the sprawling Camelot Industrial Park.
South: The highest concentration of rental property in Plymouth is found here, including popular neighborhoods like The Pinehills, Ellisville, Cedarville and Chiltonville. This area is home to the Old Sandwich Golf Club and large tracts of wooded areas, such as The Myles Standish State Forest.
How the Locals Unwind
When you have nine public beaches, including Plymouth Beach, 16 lakes and ponds, state parks like Ellisville Harbor, and almost a dozen golf clubs, then you've got little reason not to go out and get active. You can enjoy the outdoors during Plymouth's annual summer concerts like the midsummer Plymouth Independent Music Festival. For art enthusiasts, Plymouth Center for the Arts's packed calendar is sure to keep you busy throughout the year.