Craving Small Town Life? Check out These Up-and-Coming Communities

by Jodie Franklin 03/21/2021

Photo by Christian Heitz via Pexels

Sometimes, small town life is just what you crave. If you’re considering a move and want a community with that feel, there are several in the East Coast that deliver it beautifully. From New York to Pennsylvania, here are some of the top small towns that you need to see for yourself.

1. Thomas, West Virginia

The beautiful Main Street of Thomas, West Virginia, is the highlight of life here. With a population of just around 600, this is the essence of a small town. Its location in the Allegheny Mountains means beautiful views from nearly every corner. You’ll love the vintage record store, coffeehouse, brewery, and many antique shops, as well as the quiet that comes from living in a historic mountain community.

2. High Falls, New York

If life is taking you a bit farther north, consider this town of 627 people. High Falls has the vintage stores you expect in a small town, and also has a growing list of attractions for foodies. Get your fill of comfort food at Kitchenette, a popular local restaurant, and enjoy life in a town where you can truly know all of your neighbors, and know them well.

3. North Adams, Massachusetts

If you’re looking for small-town living but want something a little larger than 600 people, consider North Adams, Massachusetts. With a population of over 13,000, it offers quite a bit more in terms of amenities, but it still maintains a small-town feel. This community is home to the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art, and since the museum’s opening it has grown into a cultural center in the state. Artists feel right at home, and art lovers will appreciate the many galleries that showcase the work of local talent.

4. Lititz, Pennsylvania

Home to just over 9,000 people, Lititz, Pennsylvania, calls itself the coolest small town in the country. Residents appreciate the mature trees that line its streets, and visitors come to shop at antique shops and boutiques while dining at exceptional restaurants. Only in Lititz can you cozy up to an old soda counter and order your latte in old-fashioned style.

5. Stowe, Vermont

If you’re going to visit Stowe to check it out, visit in the fall. Brilliant colors make this small community in the Green Mountains transform into an artist’s paradise. You’ll also appreciate the boutiques for shopping and the locally-owned restaurants. Stowe has a population of around 4,400 people, so it’s not a tiny town, but not overly large either.

Whether you’re looking for a tiny, tranquil community or one that’s on the smaller side, but still large enough to offer some amenities, you’ll find something to fit your needs along the East Coast. Check out these five, and figure out where you feel at home.

About the Author
Author

Jodie Franklin

I love helping people find their dream home or sell their house in order to achieve their next goals. I have been working hard for my clients for over 18 years throughout southeast Michigan. I have experienced every kind of transaction there is. 

Helping my community and being involved is extremely important to me. I am Past President of the Michigan Ability Partners board, which helps Veterans and people with disabilities reach independent, self-supported, and satisfying lives. I have also been a member of the City of Milan Tax Review Board and Zoning Board, and involved in Milan Main Street. I have been a major sponsor of events for Michigan Ability Partners, Aid in Milan, Milan Main Street, and many more organizations that work to make our communities better. 

I was 2018 President of the Ann Arbor Area Board of Realtors, Realtor of the year in 2016 for AAABOR and nominee for Michigan Realtor of the Year. I serve on many committees with the local board, state board and was a member of the Housing Opportunity Committee for the National Association of Realtors (2018-19). I am currently serving my second term as a Michigan Realtors Board of Directors. 

I have liked in Milan for over 20 years and enjoy living here with my husband Cliff, son Evan, and dog Rosie.