Massachusetts’ luxury housing scene isn’t just expensive—it’s thriving. According to the latest Zillow Home Value Index, elite towns like Newton, Wellesley, and Edgartown continue to command top dollar in 2025, and in most cases, they earn it. Even with some cooling after record highs in 2022 and 2023, demand remains strong and supply remains tight, keeping prices elevated. These 19 towns blend prestige, prime locations, and lasting value—whether it’s walkable streets in Boston’s wealthiest suburbs or sweeping views from the Cape and Islands. In each one, the price tag comes with serious perks.
19. Gosnold – 75% Home Price Increase Since 2012
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: $750,396
- 2013: $793,320 (+$42,924, +5.72% from previous year)
- 2014: $880,117 (+$86,797, +10.94% from previous year)
- 2015: $892,448 (+$12,331, +1.40% from previous year)
- 2016: $960,584 (+$68,136, +7.63% from previous year)
- 2017: $887,743 ($-72,841, -7.58% from previous year)
- 2018: $915,372 (+$27,629, +3.11% from previous year)
- 2019: $934,270 (+$18,898, +2.06% from previous year)
- 2020: $974,326 (+$40,056, +4.29% from previous year)
- 2021: $1,181,932 (+$207,606, +21.31% from previous year)
- 2022: $1,413,317 (+$231,385, +19.58% from previous year)
- 2023: $1,495,165 (+$81,848, +5.79% from previous year)
- 2024: $1,401,537 ($-93,628, -6.26% from previous year)
- 2025: $1,312,222 ($-89,315, -6.37% from previous year)
Gosnold’s home prices have climbed dramatically since 2012, increasing by 75% over the period despite recent declines. The town peaked in 2023 at nearly $1.5 million, then dipped two years in a row. The sharp appreciation during the pandemic years contributed significantly to its current average price of $1.31 million in 2025.
Gosnold – Remote, Exclusive, and Rapidly Shifting
Gosnold is one of the most unique places in Massachusetts, made up of the Elizabeth Islands and accessible only by boat. With a tiny year-round population and virtually no commercial development, this town is about as exclusive and private as it gets in New England. Its limited inventory and oceanfront setting help explain the high price tag.
The town’s volatility in recent years likely reflects the challenges of such a small and seasonal market. A few high-end sales can move averages significantly. Still, the long-term rise is notable, driven by increased demand for remote getaways during the pandemic and a renewed focus on lifestyle-driven purchases.
18. Manchester – 106% Home Price Increase Since 2012
- 2010: $649,986
- 2011: $648,955 ($-1,031, -0.16% from previous year)
- 2012: $643,207 ($-5,748, -0.89% from previous year)
- 2013: $677,650 (+$34,443, +5.35% from previous year)
- 2014: $721,078 (+$43,428, +6.41% from previous year)
- 2015: $760,523 (+$39,445, +5.47% from previous year)
- 2016: $767,069 (+$6,546, +0.86% from previous year)
- 2017: $787,916 (+$20,847, +2.72% from previous year)
- 2018: $832,070 (+$44,154, +5.60% from previous year)
- 2019: $832,819 (+$749, +0.09% from previous year)
- 2020: $843,429 (+$10,610, +1.27% from previous year)
- 2021: $1,000,995 (+$157,566, +18.68% from previous year)
- 2022: $1,126,134 (+$125,139, +12.50% from previous year)
- 2023: $1,174,416 (+$48,282, +4.29% from previous year)
- 2024: $1,295,509 (+$121,093, +10.31% from previous year)
- 2025: $1,336,527 (+$41,018, +3.17% from previous year)
Manchester’s housing market has more than doubled in value since 2012, with the average home now priced at $1.34 million. Steady gains were followed by a pandemic-era surge, with 2021 and 2022 seeing double-digit growth. Unlike some towns, Manchester has sustained its gains with additional increases in 2024 and 2025.
Manchester – Upscale Living on the North Shore
Manchester-by-the-Sea is one of the most coveted coastal towns on Massachusetts’ North Shore. With its picturesque harbor, top-rated schools, and proximity to Boston, the town has attracted affluent buyers for decades. The town’s train access and natural charm continue to support strong demand.
While many towns saw price drops post-pandemic, Manchester bucked the trend. Home values climbed over 3% again in 2025, indicating ongoing strength. Limited inventory and sustained interest from second-home buyers help keep values high in this classic New England seaside town.
17. Carlisle – 101% Home Price Increase Since 2012
- 2010: $749,658
- 2011: $710,006 ($-39,652, -5.29% from previous year)
- 2012: $674,017 ($-35,989, -5.07% from previous year)
- 2013: $684,578 (+$10,561, +1.57% from previous year)
- 2014: $743,037 (+$58,459, +8.54% from previous year)
- 2015: $773,253 (+$30,216, +4.07% from previous year)
- 2016: $816,574 (+$43,321, +5.60% from previous year)
- 2017: $825,455 (+$8,881, +1.09% from previous year)
- 2018: $852,122 (+$26,667, +3.23% from previous year)
- 2019: $853,862 (+$1,740, +0.20% from previous year)
- 2020: $865,666 (+$11,804, +1.38% from previous year)
- 2021: $1,022,724 (+$157,058, +18.14% from previous year)
- 2022: $1,198,703 (+$175,979, +17.21% from previous year)
- 2023: $1,217,636 (+$18,933, +1.58% from previous year)
- 2024: $1,342,067 (+$124,431, +10.22% from previous year)
- 2025: $1,353,699 (+$11,632, +0.87% from previous year)
Carlisle’s home values have climbed steadily from a low in 2012, more than doubling over that span. The largest jumps came during 2021 and 2022, when buyers sought more space and privacy. The town saw continued, though slower, growth through 2025, closing the year at $1.35 million.
Carlisle – Quiet, Spacious, and Strong
Located northwest of Boston, Carlisle is known for its large homes on generous lots and a strong sense of community. With no major commercial centers, the town attracts residents looking for tranquility and green space within commuting distance to the city…