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My January Recap for Medford, Massachusetts! The data for the first month of the year in Medford, MA is all here, let me talk you through it - single-family homes, multi-family properties and condos! The numbers are what I call . . . "funky" . . . so let me explain ; ) Is this local real estate info helpful? Want to learn more? Sign up for the 4Squares Newsletter and get our monthly Medford housing market updates straight to your inbox!

What changed on your street in the first month of 2024? And it sold for how much? Our list of everything that sold in Medford - multi-family, single-family and condos. Do you find this local real estate info helpful? Want to know more? Sign up for the 4Squares Newsletter and get our monthly Medford housing market updates!!

Meet Matt Leming, our newly elected city councilor, whose journey is as diverse as the places he's lived! From bouncing around to planting roots in Medford, he's on a mission to improve our city. What brought you to Medford, and why do you continue to choose Medford as your home? I grew up in a military family, so my childhood involved moving around a lot. My dad served in the Navy band as a trumpet player and retired in 2006-07. I was born in Baltimore and lived in various places like San Diego, California, Washington State, and Virginia Beach after my dad's retirement. Photos, clockwise from upper left: Medford's Unitarian Universalist Church, coffee and pao do queijo at Oasis, the paths at Torbert MacDonald Park, our latest City Council inaugeration. We spent 11 years in Asheville, North Carolina, where I pursued my education at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, and then spent three and a half years abroad in the United Kingdom, earning a Ph.D. In 2020, I moved to Medford to take a job at Mass General. Initially, I just wanted a cheap room to live in — living in Greater Boston on a postdoc salary is quite costly! Being naturally curious and community-oriented, I got involved in housing groups and ended up at the Unitarian Universalist Church, which led me to join the Greater Boston Interfaith Organization, where I participated in state-level initiatives for affordable housing. Beyond housing concerns, I joined citizen-led efforts to review and potentially change Medford's charter, which hasn't been done for decades. The community's dedication to organizing and improving the City made me want to stay in Medford. I wanted to contribute and be an active part of this group of people who are making an effort to make a positive impact. Can you share some of the initiatives you're considering, or is there a common thread running through your plans? One shared goal this term is to boost transparency in the City Council. During a discussion at the Greater Boston Interfaith Organization, someone mentioned that the Commonwealth’s legislature is one of the least transparent legislative bodies in the U.S. Unfortunately, that lack of transparency often trickles down to the municipal level. Many of us elected this term are trying to improve things on that front. One challenge is the lack of local news — despite some ongoing efforts, there's no consistently maintained news source. That's why I'm so grateful for people conducting these interviews and writing blog posts – it's a form of local news. There are many grassroots initiatives to establish more. City councilors, including myself, are doing our part by releasing information wherever we can – newsletters, Facebook, Reddit. I maintain a blog that I'm committed to updating every two weeks. It's where I share my thoughts on what's happening at city hall. Also, the City Council Vice President is starting to publish detailed summaries of individual council meetings through council updates. Getting people genuinely engaged and caring about everything in city council meetings is always a challenge, but it impacts their lives way more than they might realize. Having consistent local news sources would help with polarization. We do have social media, but I learned during the campaign that social media is less crucial in a local election than in a state or national one. People tend to cluster into their own communities. I spent most of my time during the election knocking on doors and having face-to-face conversations — around 7,000 to 8,000 doors, which helped me to break through some of those bubbles and factions people often stick to. So there's a lot to be said for talking to each other in person. That just takes a lot of time and effort. What are some of your favorite spots around the city? I live in South Medford and go to Oasis Cafe nearly every morning. I get a cup of coffee and three or four Bolinho de Chuva, which are little donuts. I'll eat those and sit down and read a magazine. The girls that work the counter there are trying to teach me Brazilian Portuguese. If I want to clear my mind, my running trail is around MacDonald Park, which loops around the Mystic River and crosses into Somerville. It's such a peaceful green spot by the river. Other food spots I enjoy include Alexander's — great folks down there — and Bob's Italian, which has the best eggplant parmesan in Boston. I also love May’s Cafe for Chinese food. If your best friend told you they were considering a move to Medford. What would you tell them? Medford is a great community, and I love the people here. I've lived in many different areas, and I’d say if you want a welcoming, intelligent community that's up and coming, then come to Medford. Like what you’re reading here? Want to know more? Sign up for the 4Squares Newsletter and tune in to more conversations with great Medford neighbors!

Plus the necessary cocoa to warm you up after!! Ever heard the saying, “If you don't like New England weather, wait five minutes”? We're bracing for whatever Mother Nature brings, with sledding and snow tubing adventures—natural or artificial! And as a bonus treat, we've lined up spots for hot cocoa delights that aren't as weather-dependent. So, let's get grooving — snow-filled fun and cozy havens await you! Hot Spots for Chilly Fun Close to Home If you’re looking for a quick, local outing with the littles, Medford and its surrounds offer fun spots for sledding and snow adventures that will tucker them out. Tufts University by Goddard Chapel + Danish Pastry House The area around Goddard Chapel isn't just for quiet reflection—it's a playground for sled enthusiasts in winter! The gentle incline of the hill offers both thrilling rides and stunning views of the surrounding neighborhoods, making it a favorite spot for students seeking a snowy adventure or families looking for some winter fun. Once you’ve had your fill of the hills, it’ll be time to fill your belly with some tasty treats from Danish Pastry House. Enjoy authentic treats that feel like a trip to Denmark itself, paired with a hot chocolate, or, for the caffeine-dependent, one of their seasonal lattes like the timeless Gingerbread, which is like eating a cookie and enjoying coffee all in one! Seven Bumps in Malden + Bikeeny Cafe Located via Fellsway East, behind Fellsmere Pond, Seven Bumps Hill has been a wintertime gathering spot for generations and is rumored to be the birthplace of mountainboarding. Even if there’s no snow, Fellsmere Pond is a perfect spot for a nature walk, with spectacular views from the higher spots within the park. Whether you’ve been sledding or strolling, you’ll want to stop over to Bikeeny Cafe, a few blocks over on Summer Street, where you’ll find the most delectable pastry, the Bikeeny (hence the cafe’s name!), and egg sandwiches with — wait for it! — a soft-boiled egg instead of the standard fried one. It's the perfect way to warm up after a morning outing. Photos, clockwise from top left: Sledding, a hot beverage from Malden's Bikeeny, a (very) cold beer from the Barrington Brewery & Restaurant, and the cozy interior of the Danish Pastry House, on Boston Ave in Medford's Hillside. Westward-Bound Winter Wonderlands Although northbound often leads the way for snowy escapades, there are also destinations to the west. For those seeking a day trip brimming with adventure, here are some 4Squares recommendations featuring heartier dining options and potent libations. Nashoba Valley Tubing Park + The Outlook Restaurant, Littleton, MA Nashoba Valley Tubing Park is a winter wonderland with endless hills and manufactured snow, perfect for thrilling tubing adventures. Nestled in scenic Nashoba Valley, it offers an exhilarating experience for all ages. The park's meticulously crafted slopes ensure an exciting ride every time, making it a go-to spot for winter fun. Top off the day with snacks and goodies at The Outlook Restaurant, where there’s something for everyone’s appetite, from burgers and chicken fingers to nachos, shepherd’s pie, and creamy mac & cheese (plus adult libations for the over-21 crowd). Ski Butternut + Barrington Brewery & Restaurant, Great Barrington, MA Known as the ultimate family snow destination, Ski Butternut is your go-to spot for skiing and snow tubing. Offering ski lessons, rentals, and even snowboard rentals, they cater to all levels of winter enthusiasts, ensuring a memorable snow-filled experience for everyone, ensuring that no matter what Mother Nature brings, you’ll have the perfect snowy day. While Ski Butternut also has on-site dining, if you’re looking to branch out and enjoy some craft beers apres-ski or snow tubing, Barrington Brewery & Restaurant is the place to see and be seen. Their artisanal brewery, housed in historic barns and utilizing a 7-barrel system, offers a spectrum of flavors, including a light and refreshing Berkshire Blond, a rich and creamy Black Bear Stout, and for those who are pining for warmer days, a delightful Raspberry Ale. Interested in more local Massachusetts insights and real estate news from 4Squares? Sign up for our newsletter!

Housing Market statistics for Middlesex County, Massachusetts for the month of January! As always, get in touch if you want to learn more about your neighborhood!! If you want more real estate info for Middlesex County - and beyond! - sign up for our monthly newsletter, delivered directly to your inbox!

Year to Date for all of 2023 for Middlesex County, plus and Suffolk and Worcester Counties from KW Boston Northwest! Check out this amazing resource for single-family & condo stats in Massachusetts. Interested in more real estate news and tours of towns and cities near and far, all from 4Squares? Sign up for our newsletter!

I'll always give you my monthly housing market updates for Medford, MA but I also want to keep you informed about the market in Middlesex County, and beyond! So, I am sharing this overview of the most recent monthly housing market stats for some towns and cities north and west of Boston - besides Medford!! This includes Arlington, Cambridge, Wakefield, Melrose, Malden, Billrica and more! The KW Boston Northwest offices and the KW Cambridge offices are working together - but if you still don't see your town or city, or the info you need, you can ALWAYS be in touch, I do love to talk numbers ; ) Interested in market updates, real estate news and local listings from 4Squares? Sign up for our newsletter!!

Welcome to 2024! As we continue celebrating our new School Committee members, we met with Aaron Olapade to learn more about his Medford connections and devotion to building community in the city he calls home. First and foremost, congratulations on your School Committee win! We’ll get to that in a moment, but first, let’s talk about your life in Medford— where you live and what you love about living here. My mother, brother, and I moved to Brooks Street in Medford in 2013 when I was 13, and it’s been our home for almost 11 years now. While I didn't have much say in where we moved, I've appreciated the decision that my mom, and in some ways, my brother, who is seven years older than me, made for our family. We moved around a couple of times when I was younger, so I was accustomed to change and trying to become a part of a new space and community. However, the opportunities the city has offered me and our family have made it so we can call Medford home. I've found that my energy fits well with the city's vibe, and I feel blessed to grow up here. What fond memories do you have of growing up in the West Medford neighborhood? First and foremost, I think the city's diversity is inspiring for me because, as someone who's biracial and has different cultural experiences from both sides of my family, I’m cognizant of the diversity present both in West Medford and across the city. I went to middle school on the other side of town, so taking the bus — both the school bus and the MBTA— offered me the visual perspective that there were different cultural and ethnic groups represented in Medford, and it made me realize that we don't live in a monolithic society. The West Medford Community Center has always been a hub for me to engage in community events like Hoops for Hope and senior luncheons, which I used to participate in and volunteer in when I was younger and still occasionally attend now. I truly value the diversity I see, especially in West Medford Square. For instance, there's the Front Line of Fresh Barbershop, where I frequently hang out, chat with the barbers, and engage with the diverse crowd that gathers there. It's not just about getting a haircut; it's a place where people come together and connect. It's interesting to witness the diverse mix of people frequenting the place. There's a blend of older individuals who recall a time when life wasn't always so fast-paced, especially before the technological boom. The barbershop and salon environments used to embody a strong sense of community, where hours were spent in deep conversation, fostering a genuine connection and camaraderie akin to a tight-knit family. These spaces served as significant pillars within the community. For me, this barbershop has evolved and is a return to a similar kind of haven. It's where I feel grounded and connected to the cultural experiences I cherish. Others are discovering this sense of belonging there, too. Across the city, numerous similar pillars cater to different groups—places where both older and newer generations converge, and all of these pillars contribute to Medford's sense of community engagement, something I deeply value. Being part of this community might have been one of the inspirations behind your decision to join the school committee. I'd love to hear more about your story directly from you rather than assuming. It's interesting how my interest in politics kicked off around 2018 during my senior year English class, fourth period if I remember correctly. It coincided with the whole Colin Kaepernick situation in the NFL. He initially sat during the Pledge of Allegiance as a protest for BIPOC communities, later transitioning to kneeling. There was a palpable tension in that class, especially since my teacher was a huge football fan. We'd chat about college football and the NFL all the time. As that conversation about Kaepernick continued for months, I noticed a racial divide forming. We didn't have assigned seats, so students could choose where to sit daily. Slowly, the kids of color seemed to gravitate to one side, while the white students gathered on the other. It struck me that this division had been happening most of the year, not just during this particular discussion. Sure, some students were comfortable aligning themselves on either side, but for me, being mixed, it felt a bit strange. Some students didn't fit squarely into those larger racial groups like myself. Yet, there was a significant presence of African-American students and those who identified with the white demographic in that class. I felt connected to both groups and felt this unspoken pressure to pick a side. As I grew older, my inclination toward community engagement, social justice, and nonprofit work intensified. I became more curious about individual identity—how we define ourselves, who we align with, and what influences these decisions. Is it family ties, cultural background, or something else that shapes our identity? These questions really started to drive my interest in politics and community involvement. There's such an intersection of all those questions. After high school, I took a gap year and joined City Year, a nonprofit based in Boston. I ended up teaching middle school Math and English in Charlestown to kids who were labeled by the school system as high risk for failing or dropping out. These were students flagged for various reasons—some for emotional or behavioral concerns. My role involved a mix of mentoring and teaching, aiming to guide these students. That experience solidified my passion for this kind of work. It all connected to those discussions about identity in my high school senior year. It became clear as an 18-year-old City Year member working with students who had faced setbacks, struggling to find motivation for academic success or simply to function effectively in society. These were kids who, in many ways, had lost hope because the system had told them they wouldn't make it; 13, 15, and 16-year-olds in the eighth grade, students who made a decision, consciously or subconsciously that they did not have the ability to graduate high school. On my MBTA commutes to Charlestown, I often saw private and charter school students sharing the same trains. Clearly, these schools had more resources—more funding, staff, and overall opportunities—compared to my students. I never judged or felt resentful toward these kids. But there was a moment when I couldn't help but think: "My students are just as capable as these private and charter school students. Why don't they have the same chances?" It felt like such an unfair gap in equity—financially, academically, and in terms of safety and support, and that inequities transcend geography. I feel like this is my calling—I need to stay involved in this work. I've got the intention, and I believe I'm gaining the skills and the words to advocate for more equity in education. Well, it seems you can come home again, doesn’t it? What are some of your favorite spots around the city? Some hidden jewels that newcomers to the community should know about? I spent all four years of high school on the crew team, so I became very familiar with the Mystic River, and MacDonald Park, across from Wegmans, heading towards Wellington Circle, is one of my favorite spots. I often see people strolling around the big loop leading out to Assembly Row—it's quite popular. And if you head out to the pier, right into the big basin of the river, it's phenomenal. Once you're there, you'll spot the highway, not the most thrilling view, but then the gorgeous tree line catches your eye, and you might even see the rowers out there doing their thing. There's this really neat wind chime installation they've set up near the pier, too. If you park next to the state police department building, walk into McDonald Park from there, and head toward the dock, you’ll see the wind chimes installation. It's a pretty cool thing. I've visited more times than I can count. That’s a true hidden gem! As far as places to eat, Medford has plenty, and one of the Olapade family favorites is Tasty Cafe & Kitchen on Boston Avenue near Tufts University. They have great chicken and waffles, and the smoothies are also wonderful. We usually wrap up with the question, “If your best friend told you they were considering a move to Medford, what would you tell them?” The people of Medford, in my experience, are very passionate people, including many who have lived here for their whole lives and others for generations. At the same time, there's a lot of real motivation for change. Our city is this incredible mix of ethnicities, cultures, and races, and that diversity makes Medford Medford. We've got younger generations, myself included, stepping up, eager for genuine change in various aspects. I'm vocal about it—I have a laundry list of things I'm committed to seeing through. But I also acknowledge there are generations here, individuals who've been part of this city for a long time, with their own perspectives and beliefs. This mix is what I believe gives us the most comprehensive approach to tackling any challenges or issues in our city. How we ask the questions and approach the potential for change—it'll be quicker and more effective if we make a conscious effort to include new voices. If you're keen on diving into government, culture, or community events or even considering starting a family here, getting involved in different facets of the community is key, and there are plenty of opportunities to do so. To connect with Aaron and discover more about his vision for the School Committee and future office hours, head to his website: https://electaaronolapade.com/. Like what you’re reading here? Want to know more? Sign up for the 4Squares Medford Newsletter and tune in to more conversations with great Medford neighbors!

What changed on your street in December? And it sold for how much? Our list of everything that sold in Medford - multi-family, single-family and condos. Do you find this local real estate info helpful? Want to know more? Sign up for the 4Squares Medford Newsletter and get our monthly Medford housing market updates!!

My End of Year Housing Market Recap for Medford, Massachusetts! The data for 2023 Medford, MA is all here, let me talk you through it - single-family homes, mulit-family properties and condos! Is this local real estate info helpful? Want to learn more? Sign up for the 4Squares Medford Newsletter and get our monthly Medford housing market updates straight to your inbox!

If you want more real estate info for Middlesex County - and beyond! - sign up for our monthly newsletter, delivered directly to your inbox!

New Year, New Tunes: 4 Hidden Gem Music Venues to Unleash Your Rhythm Live music is our heartbeat at 4Squares! We are big fan's of Medford's Chevalier, but we also love uncovering new venues - that pulse with unforgettable vibes and melodies. So get ready for an exhilarating musical adventure as we unveil four electrifying venues that fly under the radar but pack an impressive punch. Deep Cuts, 21 Main Street, Medford, MA The newest music hot spot on the Medford block, Deep Cuts, began as a pop-up in 2018, later relocating to West Medford in 2021 and eventually establishing a 240-person venue in Medford Square. Striving to bridge the gap left by the departure of the iconic Great Scott in Allston and Once in Somerville, Deep Cuts offers live music, a brewery, delectable food options, and a record store managed by Light of Day Records. To boot, you can try your hand at one of the pinball games from Our Lady of Pinball! In living up to the Deep Cuts name, the talent lineup includes up-and-coming, niche artists like Jane’s Party and Boy Jr. & Medusa to draw an eclectic crowd from near and far. Visit their website for a full menu and events, and follow them on Instagram for mouthwatering food pics! Backroom at the Burren, 247 Elm Street, Somerville, MA Davis Square and The Burren in Somerville share an inseparable connection, where this lively Irish pub stands as a cultural cornerstone. Whether you're seeking a traditional Irish seisiún, a Bluegrass Jam, or Gypsy Jazz vibes, you'll find your match here as they offer something for every taste — musical and culinary. Dig into a traditional Irish Breakfast or Shepherd’s Pie and pair it with their signature Bloody Mary or a pint of Guinness or Bellhaven while enjoying local artists such as Matt & Shannon Heaton, Annie and the Fur Trappers, or the Porch Party Mamas. For a complete list of who’s playing when, visit 24 Hour Concerts or join the Burren’s email list. Clockwise from top left: Narrows Center, interior; Backroom at the Burren, Erin Harpe & the Delta Swingers; Cary Memorial Hall; Narrows Center, exterior, Allan Millora Photography. Cary Hall, 1605 Massachusetts Avenue, Lexington, MA Cary Memorial Hall is more than the heart of the renowned Lexington Symphony—it's a stage buzzing with musical magic. Sure, it's the symphony's home base, but this hall doesn't stop there. It's a melting pot of musical talent, welcoming diverse acts from classical virtuosos to boundary-pushing performers across genres. Curious to learn whatever happened to Ruben Studdard and Clay Aiken of American Idol fame? Well, they’re playing in January, as is five-time Grammy winner Robert Cray. The star-studded lineup doesn’t end there. Check out the Carey Hall website for more exceptional musical acts across genres. Narrows Center for the Arts, 16 Anawan Street, Fall River, MA Nestled on the banks of the Taunton River in Bristol County, the Narrows Center for the Arts isn't just a venue—it's a vibrant, welcoming haven for culture. From legends like Mavis Staples and Los Lobos to stars like Ruth Moody of The Wailin’ Jennys and John Cafferty & The Beaver Brown Band, The Narrows’ stage has hosted diverse musical talents, painting a vivid picture of genres. Set in a historic mill, the Narrows isn't just about the beats—it's a symphony of live music and creative expression. More than a venue, it's a community hub, sparking creativity with art shows, workshops, yoga classes, and programs that invite everyone to dive into the thrilling world of arts and culture. Upcoming performers include Grateful Dead cover artists The Pearly Baker Band, and the Morrocan-Funk fusion band Club D’Elf. Tune into their calendar of events, or better yet, sign up for their email list so you don’t miss a beat.