In recent years, various towns in New England have undergone significant transformations, with rising home prices reflecting the growing demand for housing in these areas.
Formerly viewed as struggling, towns like Lawrence and Merrimac have seen a resurgence in their communities, showcasing a wealth of resources and opportunities that were previously overlooked.
The median single-family price in Lawrence has reached $500,000, representing a 69.5% increase since 2019.
Genesis Duran, a 28-year-old who grew up in Lawrence, reflects on the city’s transformation, stating, “There has been such a change. It has been very inspiring to me.”
The city boasts numerous sports and arts programs for children, along with initiatives aimed at supporting local entrepreneurs.
Duran notes her visit to the Youth Development Organization, where she saw children engaged in creative projects, such as building a wooden boat.
Organizations like Lawrence Partnership provide business loans, grants, a test kitchen, and networking opportunities to help aspiring entrepreneurs achieve their dreams.
Additionally, Groundwork Lawrence runs community-oriented programs with cooking classes, community gardens, and farmers markets.
As new businesses and restaurants sprout along Broadway, a vibrant atmosphere pulses through the city.
Duran also points out that public art has flourished, transforming once uninviting spaces into colorful, joyous murals that beautify the environment.
Despite the rising home prices, there remains a diversity of condos and smaller single-family homes available for less than $500,000, offering potential homeowners a range of options.
Renovated mill buildings are also providing stylish loft apartments for rent, adding to the city’s appeal.
Duran emphasizes that Lawrence has become a lively place, saying, “It’s not for you if you don’t like to hear music, if you don’t want to meet your neighbors.”
In contrast, Merrimac has a median single-family price of $675,000, reflecting a 66.7% increase since 2019, and is praised for its natural beauty and the close-knit community surrounding the Merrimack River.
Residents appreciate the town’s tranquility, complemented by convenient access to Interstates 495 and 95 for shopping and recreation.
Gloucester, with a median single-family price of $680,000 (an increase of 57.5% since 2019), boasts a rich history and a thriving artistic community that enhances its appeal beyond the coastal allure.
The waterfront city offers a mix of housing options from condos in the downtown area to single-family homes in more serene neighborhoods like Magnolia, as well as charming cottages by the water in Annisquam.
If you’re seeking a peaceful atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle, Newbury may be the ideal choice.
With a median single-family price of $872,500 and a 67% increase since 2019, Newbury is described by residents as quiet and family-centered.
Marion Godin, who grew up in Newbury, highlights the beautiful scenery and natural surroundings that define the town.
The town comprises three villages: the picturesque Plum Island, the quieter Byfield, and the historic Old Town, each with its unique character and charm.
The Great Marsh, which connects these villages, adds to the area’s natural beauty, offering trails and beaches ideal for outdoor activities.
Both Godin and her brother Jeff Christensen feel a deep connection to Newbury, continuing to enjoy the community’s close ties as they run a local convenience store and restaurant, the Sunset Club and The Cottage.
Christensen reflects on the welcoming community, stating, “We see all the same people every day and everyone knows each other. It’s a community.”
Moving further along the North Shore, Middleton presents a suburban lifestyle characterized by spacious homes and lush lawns.
With a median single-family price of $959,000 and a 61.2% increase since 2019, Middleton is seen as an active community that supports newcomers.
Hamilton, only 45 minutes from Boston, offers a charming environment with historical homes and a vibrant atmosphere of family-friendly amenities, such as one of the region’s best playgrounds located in Patton Park.
The median single-family price here is around $860,000, reflecting a 43.1% increase since 2019.
On the other hand, Newburyport’s impressive architecture and walkable downtown add to its allure, where the median single-family price is $1,025,000, with a notable increase of 54% since 2019.
The historic buildings in the downtown area showcase the city’s rich legacy, saved from a 1960s demolition plan due to public outcry.
David Hall, a local developer, highlights how the architectural and community landscape of Newburyport has evolved and thrived over the decades, creating a harmonious blend of history and modernity.
Apart from its architectural splendor, the city is rich in natural beauty, with parks and wildlife areas providing outdoor enthusiasts with numerous opportunities for exploration and recreation.
This synthesis of nature and design has kept many locals engaged, with Hall himself stating, “I just never left.”
Andover is another town that consistently draws homebuyers, with a median single-family price of $1,000,000.
Though higher-priced properties dominate the market, the town still has affordable options, including smaller houses and condos, appealing to a wider audience despite a 51.5% price increase since 2019.
Finally, there’s Somerville, known for its cultural diversity and trendy atmosphere, now commanding a median single-family price of $1,160,000, up 36.5% since 2019.
Once considered a less desirable area near Cambridge, Somerville has developed its identity, attracting buyers who appreciate the unique vibrancy it offers.
Often praised for its distinct neighborhoods and local businesses, Somerville still offers occasional opportunities for affordable condos within renovated historic buildings.
Through an extensive analysis of median home prices and community dynamics, it becomes clear that these towns have not only seen a surge in housing costs but also a meaningful shift in their community fabric.
As former mill towns reinvent themselves, the rising home prices signal a renewed interest from buyers in seeking homes in these vibrant areas.
In conclusion, the rising median prices reflect an evolving landscape, where community engagement, natural beauty, and rich history have become key selling points for houses in these towns.
As a result, each city and town offers unique opportunities for potential buyers who seek to plant their roots in New England.
image source from：https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/04/16/magazine/towns-north-of-boston-with-big-home-buyer-demand/
