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Best places to live

Best Places to Live: Top 100

For this year's list we focused on smaller places that offered the best combination of economic opportunity, good schools, safe streets, things to do and a real sense of community.

By Kate Ashford, Andrea Bartz, Jeff Cox, Asa Fitch, Stephen Gandel, Josh Hyatt, Rob Kelley, Kathleen Knight, Joe Light, Ismat Sarah Mangla, Sarah Max, Jennifer Merritt, Brad Nelson, Donna Rosato, Ingrid Tharasook

The barn at 200 Acton Road

21 of 100

21. Chelmsford, Mass.

Population: 33,800
Median home price (2006): $352,002
Average property taxes (2006):$4,019

Chelmsford has a long and colorful history. Ralph Waldo Emerson founded a school there and its militia fought in some of the Revolutionary War's most famous battles. While many historical landmarks remain, Chelmsford has developed into a thriving industrial town. Nevertheless, Chelmsford has plenty to offer nature lovers, with several parks scattered throughout town. -B.N.

See complete data and interactive map for Chelmsford
Find homes for sale in Chelmsford

Nether Providence (Wallingford)

Franklin (Milwaukee County)

Source: OnBoard

Best places to live

Best Places to Live: Full list

Middleton, Wis., is this year's winner. See if your hometown made the cut. (more)

25 top-earning towns

Wondering where the wealth is? Residents of these 25 places have the highest median household incomes in the country. (more)

Where homes are affordable

Residents who buy real estate in these 25 towns see their incomes go the furthest. (more)

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* : Time reflects local markets trading time.† - Intraday data delayed 15 minutes for Nasdaq, and 20 minutes for other exchanges.• Disclaimer