Founded in 1640 as one of Massachusetts' oldest communities, Braintree offers houses for rent in a well-established suburban setting just 10 miles south of Boston. The city's comprehensive transportation network includes the MBTA Red Line station and commuter rail providing direct access to Boston, while Interstate 93 and Route 3 connect residents to major employment centers throughout the region. The area near Sunset Lake features tree-lined residential streets with a mix of rental houses and established properties, while the Liberty Street neighborhood around Pond Meadow Park offers rental homes with access to 320 acres of conservation land and walking trails. South Shore Plaza serves as a major retail destination with over 180 stores. The city's position along the Red Line means downtown Boston is accessible within 30 minutes. Local amenities include the historic Thayer Public Library, established in 1874, multiple grocery stores including Whole Foods and Stop & Shop, and the 7,000-acre Blue Hills Reservation, offering hiking trails, skiing at Blue Hills Ski Area, and panoramic views of the Boston skyline from its 635-foot summit.