There’s plenty to love about small-town living. Streets are quieter, neighbors often know each other by name, and many of these places are surrounded by beautiful scenery. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, a small town has fewer than 50,000 residents. While these communities may seem like an affordable alternative to big cities, some come with surprisingly high price tags.
Limited housing, sought-after locations, luxury amenities, and strong demand have pushed home prices far above the national average in many of these towns. This list looks at factors such as home values, household incomes, cost of living, and housing affordability. Here are 15 of the most expensive small towns to call home in America.
Vineyard Haven, Massachusetts
Located on Martha’s Vineyard, Vineyard Haven is home to about 20,500 residents and has long been one of New England’s most desirable places to live. Waterfront views, a walkable downtown, and limited housing inventory keep property values high.
The median home value sits just under $1 million, while the average household income is around $93,000. Even with above-average incomes, homes remain expensive compared to local earnings, making it one of the least affordable small towns in the country…