Seems like your parent neighborhood is kind of the best option for that. There aren’t a lot of parks near downtown and the neighborhoods with more green spaces, like tatnuck, are not close to the train station. Only Elm Park area really meets both requirements. Maybe look downtown near the common?

Grafton Street has a ton of Boston workers due to its proximity to the Pike. The ideal apt close tot he rail station would be IMHO within walking, not driving, distance. Places near Eastern ave/Gage OR Providence st/Worcester Academy might seem low class, but who knows? Maybe you can find a place there.

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Do you know how safe downtown is these days?

Shrewsbury Street is a solid option. Plenty of night life and safe, plus close proximity to 290 and Route 9. Cristoforo Colombo Park and Green Hill Park are close and it's not far from Union Station.

are you asking which neighborhood is most gentrified?

concerning what?

Probably downtown or the Canal District. Are you looking for a condo/apartment?

You can find a cool little loft space or a newer/renovated building in these places. If the WPI area is not lively enough, I don't see any other areas that will fit your needs.

It's safe as any other urban area. There are tons of younger people that live downtown and within the Canal District.

We just moved to Grafton hill. Love proximity to lake park and mass pike, shopping in Shrewsbury, and shoot down Hamilton St to downtown. Stay on east side of Plantation though, especially if you have a budget 1500-2500

I live close to WPI and Highland street always seemed pretty lively to me, but there’s definitely more downtown. You’re going to have a hard time finding a place that allows dogs though. With that budget your best bet is the Grid or 145 Front street at city square. It won’t be cheap but I haven’t seen many other places that are ok with dogs.