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Malden
Nearest city: Boston
Population: 56,454
Median household income: $67,599
Malden is a racially diverse, relatively affordable, and well-connected city six miles north of Boston. The city is working to rejuvenate its downtown, a mix of shops and restaurants around the Malden Square.
Runners-up:
Cambridge
Weymouth
Click here to see the 2010 version of the Best Places to Raise Your Kids