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Local Guides, Local Real EstatePublished August 27, 2025
The Most Affordable Greater Boston Neighborhoods Still Worth Buying In
Greater Boston real estate has a reputation for sticker shock, but that doesn’t mean buyers are out of luck. If you know where to look, there are still neighborhoods and suburbs with median home prices under $800,000. Even better, these places aren’t just affordable on paper — they offer real character, convenient commutes, and communities people love being part of.
Here are ten spots that strike the balance between cost and livability, plus one honorable mention that’s just over the line but worth the attention.
Boston Neighborhoods
East Boston – Median $700,000
Once overlooked, Eastie has become one of the city’s hottest markets. The Blue Line zips you downtown in minutes, while neighborhood restaurants keep winning over food lovers from across Boston. Waterfront parks and skyline views add extra appeal.
Local gem: Piers Park, where you can sit by the harbor and watch the planes come and go.
See homes for sale in East Boston
Roslindale – Median $730,000
Roslindale blends leafy residential streets with a vibrant village center. The weekly farmers market, cozy restaurants, and strong sense of community make it feel like a small town wrapped inside Boston. Families and first-time buyers alike are finding real value here.
Local gem: Roslindale Village Farmers Market, a weekend ritual for locals.
See homes for sale in Roslindale
Close-In Suburbs
Everett – Median $694,500
Everett is shifting fast. The casino may get the headlines, but the real story is the new breweries, dining options, and proximity to Assembly Row. For buyers who want space without losing touch with city life, Everett is one to watch.
Local gem: Night Shift Brewing, the kind of place people will travel across the state for.
Malden – Median $685,000
Malden has been reinventing itself with an influx of restaurants and cafes, plus the Orange Line’s direct connection into Boston. With housing that remains accessible, it’s drawing buyers who want diversity, energy, and a quick commute.
Local gem: The Northern Strand Trail, a greenway linking multiple communities.
Winthrop – Median $680,000
Winthrop often flies under the radar, but it’s a seaside town just minutes from downtown Boston. Beaches, marinas, and even a commuter ferry make it feel like a vacation spot that happens to be next door to the city.
Local gem: Winthrop Shore Drive, a local favorite for evening walks along the ocean.
See homes for sale in Winthrop
Farther Out, Still Worth It
Salem – Median $605,000
Salem has it all: commuter rail service, historic charm, a lively arts scene, and a walkable downtown packed with restaurants and shops. It’s a rare place where affordability and lifestyle overlap so neatly.
Local gem: Jaho Coffee and Wine Bar, a favorite stop before exploring the waterfront.
Woburn – Median $765,000
Woburn is a classic commuter town that’s getting more interesting every year. Families come for the schools, commuters like the highway access, and everyone enjoys Horn Pond for outdoor time. The restaurant scene keeps expanding, adding to its appeal.
Local gem: Horn Pond, perfect for walking, fishing, or just catching a sunset.
Dedham – Median $750,000
Dedham offers the best of both worlds: suburban living with quick connections into Boston. Its historic town center, strong schools, and shopping at Legacy Place make it an easy sell for buyers who want convenience with character.
Local gem: Dedham Community Theatre, showing indie films in a restored 1920s building.
Canton – Median $730,000
Canton sits on two commuter rail lines and backs up to Blue Hills Reservation. That means access to both the city and the outdoors, plus a range of homes that hit the sweet spot between price and space.
Local gem: Blue Hills hiking trails, with some of the best views in Greater Boston.
Honorable Mention
Medford – Median $879,000
It doesn’t make the under-$800k cutoff, but Medford deserves a nod. The Green Line Extension has changed the game for commuters, and Tufts University adds both stability and vibrancy. If you’re willing to stretch the budget, Medford still feels like a smart long-term move.
Local gem: Mystic River paths and the new Green Line stations.
Next Steps
Buying a home in Greater Boston will never be “cheap,” but affordable and worthwhile can still exist in the same place. These ten communities combine livable prices with real neighborhood character, proving you don’t have to give up quality of life to stay on budget.
Book a strategy session with the Santana Team to find the right fit, including homes not yet widely marketed.
Disclaimer: Market stats are based on MLS data for the 12 months ending August 2025. Prices and availability are subject to change. Always verify current figures before making decisions.
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