If you've ever wondered if you live in a wealthy neighborhood, you've come to the right place. Paxton City is a mid-sized city in central Massachusetts, near the border of New Hampshire and Rhode Island. The average temperature in this city is about 48 degrees Fahrenheit, with winters being much colder. The population density is roughly 439 people per square mile. Paxton is considered affluent based on the Wealth Index, which is based on a number of indicators. The number 100 represents the wealthiest area in the country, while a value below 100 indicates that a location is not very wealthy.
The city was originally known as Prairie City. However, an official of the Illinois Central Railroad changed the name to Prospect City, which sparked a controversy. Residents complained that the town was full of prospect, with no city. Ultimately, the town was renamed to Paxton. The name came from Sir Joseph Paxton, the architect of the Crystal Palace, and a shareholder of the Illinois Central Railroad. He was also interested in English settlement in the state. In 2009, Paxton celebrated its sesquicentennial.
The county seat, Paxton, Illinois, is home to the Historic Brick Water Tower, which was built in 1887. The brick tower is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Local historical preservation groups, such as the Paxton Foundation, are restoring the Old Ford County Jail and Sheriff's Residence, built in 1871 and adjacent to the Paxton Courthouse. This building will serve as a museum. Paxton also boasts a Carnegie Library, which was built in 1903.