In my town the police are very pro-2A and make the process as easy as possible under the law. Other towns don’t issue carry permits, period. Most towns are in the middle — although the process is more of a PITA than most states, it’s still perfectly doable for most people to get a carry license. The main reason most people don’t own/carry firearms here is simply because they don’t want to. There is no gun culture such as it exists in more conservative areas of the country.
THAT IS NOT TRUE.
If you live in Boston and some of the surrounding towns it is not possible for the average person to get a concealed carry permit.
I know people who have serious experience in the military who moved because their city/town wouldn't issue permits .
OTOH I know some who were able to get permits. Maybe because they were well known entertainers or politicians.