City Spotlight: Longmeadow, MA
As we continue developing our knowledge of some of the lesser-known cities and towns in New England, specifically Massachusetts, the next stop takes us to Longmeadow, MA.
Longmeadow sits on the southern border of Massachusetts, maintaining the last part of Massachusetts culture before entering Connecticut. Hartford is just a 20-minute ride away, while Boston is still only that hour and a half away, as are many of the cities in Hampden County.
About Longmeadow, MA
It doesn’t have a nickname like other cities or towns in the area, and its current population hovers around 16,000 residents. Longmeadow, MA is considered a sparse suburb of Springfield, MA. It should not be confused with East Longmeadow, which was an original part of Longmeadow, MA.
Houses started forming along the eastern portion of Longmeadow, and it was simply called East Village (no relation to the East Village in New York City). Eventually, they felt they had enough houses and incorporated them into their own town.
They also decided, during this incorporation, to respect where they came from while at the same time attempting to differentiate themselves by calling the town East Longmeadow.
There is no mayor for Longmeadow, MA, and instead, there's a Town Manager. Lyn Simmons is the current town manager, who has held the position since 2019. Spending an extensive part of her live-in Longmeadow, MA, Lyn has served the town for 16 years. Before that, she was the town's Chief of staff, and it felt only natural to take over the reins of the destination and start managing it from her perspective.
Her primary current focus appears to be in the town's financial management and to focus on the growth of the town to maintain its status as one of the more desirable locations to live in Western Massachusetts.
Demographics and Industry of Longmeadow, MA
There isn't a particular industry in Longmeadow, MA, as it is considered a suburb of Springfield, MA and closely connected with its neighbor state in the south. The demographics of the area are nearly entirely white, with one of the highest levels of income in the nation, let alone the state. Its median household income is over $100,00 as of 2020. The median household income across the United States is half of that at about $61,000 per year.
Longmeadow, MA also is about 95% residential properties with the home value being at $343,700, versus the national average hovering around $217,000
Historical Significance of Longmeadow, MA
Longmeadow, MA, is one of the earliest towns ever to be incorporated in the Union. It was founded in 1644 and then incorporated in 1783, which is right around the time they formed the nation of the United States. It was primarily farmland for Springfield's larger town and is currently ranked as one of the best places to live in Hampden County.
It is considered to be the the first community incorporated when they formed the Commonwealth of Massachusetts back then. This fact makes it significantly historical to the formation of the Union and the modern-day United States we know of today.
Anything famous in Longmeadow, MA?
Yes! Even with its small stature, it's still home to a host of famous people and sports players. For example, it's the home of Danny Almeida, the renowned hockey player. It was also where Mary Ann Booth, a microscopist, was born. She was one of the most prestigious female scientists and the first female to join the ranks as a Fellows of the Royal Microscopy Society, all the way back in 1889, being a beacon of progress at the time.
In addition, it's the birthplace of one of the earliest known pieces of American folklore, namely Johnny Appleseed! The same one we learned the rhymes to while in elementary school. His original name was John Chapman, and as one of the most prominent nursery workers of his time, he helped bring apples throughout the continental United States, which earned him his moniker we will never forget!
What types of schools are there in Longmeadow, MA
There’s been no decline in school enrollment, and Longmeadow has a solid school system, both public and private. There are 16 schools in the town, with six of them being public schools and two parochial schools. The first is the Jewish-based Lubavitcher Yeshiva Academy and a parish school known as St. Mary’s Academy. It’s also home to Longmeadow High School, which is a proud recipient of a gold College Success Award badge. So there's definitely no shortage in high-quality education for those that are looking for their children.
Bay Path University has its home in Longmeadow, MA, when it comes to higher education. It's currently ranked 90th in Regional Universities North , and its undergrad program is all-women and is only coed for its master's degree and post-graduate programs. In addition, it has strong programs in business, finance, accounting, and teaching. It's also home to an accelerated 48-week program.
What is there to do for fun in Longmeadow, MA
There’s plenty, and all within the area as well too! It’s a stone’s throw away from Six Flags New England, for a day to enjoy the rides with the kids, or when the kids are in school, and you want to remember those childhood moments!
Once you've had your fill of sugary sweets and stomach-churning rides, then it's all about the shopping! That's right, Longmeadow, MA is home to some wonderful outlet shopping at The Longmeadow Shops, where you can shop for fashion or refresh some staple clothing at steep discounts and high quality.
Since Longmeadow is also an excellent place for retirees and golf enthusiasts alike, it boasts two country clubs for those looking to play a few rounds of golf or enjoy New England Club Amenities. The first option on our list is the Longmeadow Country Club.
It was established in 1922 and has a full 18 holes to play. While you play your rounds, the rest of the family can enjoy the other amenities such as the oversized pools, racquet sports, and fine dining. If this isn't to your liking, then head on over to Twin Hills Country Club, which offers similar amenities and a beautiful events area that nonmembers can book.
Where can I get some great food in Longmeadow, MA?
New England boasts some great pizza options, and if you’re looking for one of the biggest calzones you could ever eat, then head over to the Grapevine Pizzeria and Restaurant. They also have a great wine selection, small bites, and other Italian-style food.
If you're simply too hungry from all that shopping at the Longmeadow Shops, you can also get one of the best burgers to satisfy any sized hunger you may have. Packed full of flavor, Max Burger Bar will keep your mouth watering while you're waiting for your food. In addition, they work to source their beef and make everything in-house locally.
Final Thoughts on Longmeadow, MA
Suppose you are genuinely looking for those brick houses that encompass New England feelings, or you're looking for a comfortable place to retire packed with access and amenities, Longmeadow. In that case, MA is one of the best options for many different types of people.