I grew up in Methuen for about 30 years, spent a few more living in Andover.

The problem with Lawrence is the municipality. They had a really bad Mayor some time ago, and he really fucked the place up. He's gone, and some recovery has happened; but it's digging out of a deep hole. I remember fire and police departments from neighboring cities had to help out when their nightclubs were having all kinds of fights and closing late. Here's an older article about the nightclubs. Check out the Eagle Tribune, it's the local paper in Lawrence.

Neighboring Methuen also has huge issues with corrupt police.

Lawrence spent a lot on a highschool, but it's a nice new high school in what is essentially a demilitarized zone. They expanded their hospital, but mostly to serve victims of violence (domestic, gun, etc). They've repurposed old mill buildings to appeal to businesses, but those buildings were remodeled by a slumlord who doesn't maintain them. I know, I had to work in that building - the elevators never worked and the windows were filled with live bugs. Fucking gross.

I honestly don't feel comfortable eating at most restaurants in Lawrence. I'll go well into Andover for food. The Merrimack river has it's own reputation. Also you'll be downstream from the Lowell water treatment plant.

Exeter Street is near what is fondly referred to as "the stadium projects". Part of the Lawrence Housing authority. It is a State Family funded development. It is basically the demilitarized zone near the highschool I mentioned. It is low-income housing. Are you comfortable with that kind of neighbor? This is NOT the "good" part of Lawrence.

So it's a decay from corruption, crime, and poverty. You won't see much benefit for your taxes.