“Our Town” is our insiders’ look at the communities of New England. “Our Town” gives you the key, top-line facts and figures any home buyer needs to know.  But, just as importantly, “Our Town” will give you a sense about what statistics can’t tell you, but what you really need to know: what’s the character of the community?

For this personalized view, we ask our agents to share their “Five Faves” about the towns where they not only do business, but in which they live.  Our hope is that you may find some special tidbit on “Our Town” that could help make it your town.

This month’s "Our Town" takes a look at Shrewsbury, MA.

Located in Worcester County, Massachusetts, Shrewsbury was originally settled in 1722 and is considered a suburb of both Boston and Worcester. Located about 45 minutes from Boston and 10 minutes from downtown Worcester, this Central Massachusetts town has easy access to major highways including Routes 290, 190, 465 and the Mass Turnkpike, for commuters.

Shrewsbury is a unique community for Central Massachusetts. On one hand, it looks like a classic Normal Rockwell New England town with a stunning town center filled with historic homes. It’s definitely that type of place where everybody knows your name, where families share warm summer days in the park, or help out a neighbor in need. On the other hand, it is also a very upscale suburban metropolis, with wonderful schools, many of which are new, great shopping, pizza, sushi, skiing, boating and so much more.

Shrewsbury’s easy access to major highways, the lowest property taxes of any town in the area, and affordable housing, have helped it succeed even in challenging times. Many Bostonians in search of better values have inevitably wound up on Shrewsbury’s doorstep.

For this issue of “Our Town,” we spoke with Agent Steve Levine of RE/MAX First Choice in neighboring Northboro, MA.

1. What is the median price of a Single Family home?

The median price of a single family home in Shrewsbury is approximately $384,000.

2. What is the public transportation system like?

Shrewsbury is ideally positioned for commuters offering easy bus service to Worcester and an MBTA line that runs right to Back Bay and South Station.

3. What is access to major highways?

Access to major highways is very good with easy access to Route 290, 190, 495 and the Mass Turnpike.

4. How are the school systems in the area?

The Shrewsbury school systems are ranked among the best in the state. We have nine public schools including two preschools, four elementary, two middle and one high school.

5. Who is this area attractive to?

Shrewsbury is attractive to younger folks and families just starting out, as well as retirees because of the affordable price points, as well as easy access to major cities. One of the great assets of Shrewsbury, in terms of sales, has been its far reach appeal to a wide array of different people. The town has easy access to Worcester, of course, but also has easy access to the Boston area and town all along the Route 495 belt.

6. Total population?

Shrewsbury’s population is approximately 31,640.

7. Average age of population?

The average age in Shrewsbury is about 38 years old with a median household income of just over $64,000.

Steve’s Five Faves about Shrewsbury:

1. Best Coffee Spot: I love Lalajava, route 20 on the Shrewsbury Northboro Line. This is a great escape with a tropical feel for not only coffee but also iced tiki teas, tropical smoothies and frozen mochachinos.

2. Best Restaurant: I personally love Amici Trattoria located on Main Street. The menu is authentic, affordable and delicious. I personally love the veal parmesan.

3. Best Place to Grab a Steak: Willy’s Steakhouse is fantastic. It’s located on Grafton Street and my favorite is Beef Wellington with onion rings.

4. Best Area to Explore: We have great walking trails around the pond at Dean Park, where you can watch the kids play, check out the water birds, and in the evening enjoy the dancing fountains. A nice escape for the mind and soul.

5. Best Market: We are lucky to have a Super Stop & Shop, as well as a Trader Joe’s in the community.

To learn more about Shrewsbury, MA, please contact Steve Levine at

RE/MAX First Choice

155 Otis Street

Northboro, MA 01532

Phone: 508-735-4663

Fax: 508-351-1555

www.firstchoicehomesma.com

steve@stevelevine.com