Maynard is a small Massachusetts mill town — 5.4 square miles, incorporated 1871 — that has made a quiet case for itself as one of MetroWest's more livable communities. A working arts scene, a walkable downtown, and a rail trail that actually connects things. Data below is drawn from public sources and updated annually.
Population & People
Dense for its size, with strong educational attainment and a genuinely mixed age profile. Wedged between higher-priced neighbors, Maynard draws professionals who want access without the premium.
Full demographics →Income & Employment
Above-median incomes, low unemployment. Most residents commute out to tech and professional employers along Routes 2 and 495. The former DEC mill complex now operates as Class A office space.
Full economy data →Housing Market
Older mill-town stock at a relative discount to neighboring Acton, Sudbury, and Stow. Still one of the more accessible entry points in MetroWest for buyers and renters alike.
Full housing data →Public Schools
Three schools serve PreK–12: Green Meadow (PreK–3), Fowler School (4–8), and Maynard High School (9–12). The Fowler 4–8 configuration is unusual — it tends to ease the transition into high school. Small enough that teachers know students by name.
School profiles →Character & Life
The Assabet Rail Trail connects downtown to South Acton station. The Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge borders the town. Amory's Tomb Brewing on Main Street. A clock tower from 1892, still wound by hand weekly.
Community guide →Demographic, income, and housing data from the U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates, 2020–2024. School data from NCES via the Urban Institute Education Data Portal, 2022–23 school year. All figures are estimates with margins of error.