According to the Zillow Home Value Index through November 2024, New England’s most affordable coastal communities reveal a striking geographic and economic pattern, with Maine dominating the lower end of the price spectrum while Massachusetts communities cluster in the higher ranges. The analysis of 25 coastal towns shows a remarkable spread in home values, from Biddeford, Maine at $477,736 to Marblehead, Massachusetts at $985,679, highlighting the significant variation in coastal property values across the region. Despite being labeled as “affordable” in the context of New England coastal real estate, even the least expensive communities demonstrate the premium placed on oceanfront living, with only three towns showing median home values under $500,000.
The geographic distribution of these communities tells a compelling story about regional real estate patterns, with Maine contributing eight communities, primarily in the more affordable range, while Massachusetts dominates numerically with twelve communities that tend to cluster in the higher price ranges. New Hampshire and Rhode Island each contribute modestly to the list with two communities apiece, typically falling in the middle price ranges, while Connecticut notably lacks any representation among the most affordable coastal towns. The data also reveals a clear correlation between urban proximity and home values, with communities closer to Boston commanding significantly higher prices than their more remote counterparts, particularly those in Maine.
Perhaps most striking is the appreciation pattern across these communities over the 2015-2024 period, with every town showing at least 80% growth in home values. Old Orchard Beach, Maine leads with an extraordinary 129.1% appreciation, followed closely by Ogunquit at 123.0%, while even the lowest appreciation rates – seen in Marblehead and Rockport, Massachusetts at 83.2% and 83.4% respectively – demonstrate robust growth. The data shows particular acceleration during the post-2020 period, suggesting a significant COVID-impact on coastal property values, with the 2020-2024 timeframe showing notably stronger appreciation than the 2015-2020 period.
#25. Marblehead, MA
Home values in Marblehead have risen from $537,934 in June 2015 to $694,843 in June 2020, reaching $985,679 by November 2024, representing an 83.2% increase over the nine-year period. This historic coastal community has maintained strong property values while showing more modest appreciation compared to many other coastal towns.
Marblehead is a picturesque coastal town known for its rich maritime heritage and deep-water harbor that’s home to several yacht clubs. The town features a stunning collection of well-preserved 17th and 18th-century buildings, a vibrant arts community, and a charming historic district that draws visitors and residents alike.
#24. Nahant, MA
Nahant’s home values have increased from $456,088 in June 2015 to $576,564 in June 2020, reaching $920,688 by November 2024, showing a robust 101.9% appreciation over the nine-year span. The town’s unique peninsula location and limited housing stock have contributed to its strong property values.
Nahant is Massachusetts’ smallest town by land area, occupying a peninsula that juts into Massachusetts Bay. The town offers scenic beaches, rocky shores, and historic fortifications, while maintaining a tight-knit community atmosphere despite its proximity to Boston.
#23. Ogunquit, ME
Ogunquit has experienced dramatic home value appreciation, climbing from $401,724 in June 2015 to $529,459 in June 2020, and reaching $895,959 by November 2024, marking a substantial 123.0% increase. This growth reflects the town’s increasing popularity as both a vacation destination and year-round community.
Known for its stunning three-mile beach and scenic Marginal Way walking path, Ogunquit has long been a premier tourist destination on the Maine coast. The town combines its natural beauty with a thriving arts scene, featuring the historic Ogunquit Playhouse and numerous art galleries.
#22. Newburyport, MA
Newburyport’s home values have grown from $459,354 in June 2015 to $573,507 in June 2020, reaching $868,333 by November 2024, representing an 89.0% increase. The town’s careful preservation of its historic character while embracing modern amenities has helped maintain strong property values.
This historic seaport features a beautifully restored downtown with Federal-style architecture, brick sidewalks, and a vibrant waterfront. The town offers a perfect blend of maritime heritage, cultural attractions, and modern dining and shopping options, making it a desirable coastal community.
#21. Rockport, MA
Rockport has seen home values increase from $443,430 in June 2015 to $563,120 in June 2020, reaching $813,134 by November 2024, showing an 83.4% appreciation. The town’s artistic heritage and preserved coastal character have helped maintain its appeal to homebuyers.
Located at the tip of Cape Ann, Rockport is famous for its picturesque Motif #1 fishing shack and its long-standing artists’ colony. The town features numerous art galleries, unique shops, and beautiful beaches while maintaining its authentic New England fishing village character.
#20. Swampscott, MA
Swampscott’s home values have risen from $407,739 in June 2015 to $551,408 in June 2020, reaching $787,753 by November 2024, marking a 93.2% increase. The town’s proximity to Boston and beautiful coastal setting have driven consistent property value growth.
This historic seaside community offers residents a perfect blend of coastal living and commuter convenience to Boston. The town features several beaches, a scenic fishing pier, and historic estates, while maintaining a strong sense of community and excellent public schools.
#19. Narragansett, RI
Narragansett has experienced substantial home value appreciation, moving from $358,466 in June 2015 to $459,075 in June 2020, and reaching $759,227 by November 2024, representing a 111.8% increase. This growth reflects the town’s increasing popularity as both a summer destination and year-round community.
Known for its beautiful beaches and iconic towers, Narragansett combines historic charm with modern beach town amenities. The town offers excellent surfing, fishing, and beach activities, while maintaining a strong year-round community with diverse housing options.
#18. Marshfield, MA
Marshfield’s home values have increased from $377,383 in June 2015 to $480,662 in June 2020, reaching $738,490 by November 2024, showing a 95.7% appreciation. The town’s combination of coastal amenities and family-friendly atmosphere has supported consistent property value growth.
This South Shore community offers five beaches, extensive conservation lands, and a strong sense of community. The town balances its coastal character with excellent schools, multiple shopping areas, and convenient access to Boston, making it particularly attractive to families.
#17. Gloucester, MA
Gloucester has seen home values climb from $377,086 in June 2015 to $476,700 in June 2020, reaching $725,964 by November 2024, marking a 92.5% increase. The city’s rich maritime heritage and evolving economy have contributed to steady property value appreciation.
America’s oldest seaport, Gloucester maintains its working waterfront while embracing tourism and arts. The city offers diverse coastal neighborhoods, from the iconic Good Harbor Beach to the artist colony of Rocky Neck, while preserving its authentic fishing community character.
#16. York, ME
York’s home values have risen from $357,458 in June 2015 to $455,811 in June 2020, reaching $719,547 by November 2024, showing a 101.3% appreciation. The town’s combination of historic charm and beach communities has driven consistent property value growth.
York encompasses four distinct areas – York Village, York Harbor, York Beach, and Cape Neddick – each with its own character. The town features historic sites including the Nubble Lighthouse, multiple beaches, and a popular summer tourism economy while maintaining a strong year-round community.
#15. Beverly, MA
Beverly’s home values have increased from $372,971 in June 2015 to $506,798 in June 2020, reaching $714,292 by November 2024, representing a 91.5% increase. The city’s evolution as a desirable North Shore community has supported steady property value appreciation.
Known as the “Garden City,” Beverly offers a diverse coastal environment with multiple beaches, historic districts, and cultural attractions including Endicott College and the North Shore Music Theatre. The city combines its coastal character with easy access to Boston and a growing restaurant and arts scene.
#14. Hull, MA
Hull has experienced home value growth from $352,436 in June 2015 to $459,215 in June 2020, reaching $670,692 by November 2024, marking a 90.3% increase. The town’s unique peninsula location and beach community atmosphere have contributed to steady appreciation.
Located on a narrow peninsula extending into Boston Harbor, Hull offers miles of beaches, historic Nantasket Beach, and stunning views of the Boston skyline. The town provides a unique blend of beach living with easy access to Boston via commuter boat and suburban amenities.
#13. Winthrop, MA
Winthrop’s home values have grown from $344,048 in June 2015 to $502,210 in June 2020, reaching $670,038 by November 2024, showing a 94.8% appreciation. The town’s proximity to Boston and coastal character have driven consistent property value growth.
This peninsula community offers stunning views of Boston Harbor and the Atlantic Ocean. The town combines its beach community atmosphere with easy access to Boston, making it particularly attractive to commuters seeking a coastal lifestyle.
#12. Scarborough, ME
Scarborough has seen home values increase from $311,736 in June 2015 to $416,277 in June 2020, reaching $662,929 by November 2024, representing a 112.7% increase. The town’s combination of natural beauty and proximity to Portland has supported strong property value appreciation.
Known for its beautiful beaches, including the famous Pine Point and Scarborough Beach State Park, this coastal community offers an attractive mix of rural character and suburban conveniences. The town maintains excellent schools and extensive conservation areas while providing easy access to Portland.
#11. Seabrook, NH
Seabrook’s home values have risen from $308,338 in June 2015 to $399,669 in June 2020, reaching $633,422 by November 2024, marking a 105.4% increase. The town’s beach community atmosphere and tax advantages have contributed to steady property value growth.
This seaside community offers a popular beach area, extensive conservation lands, and the advantage of New Hampshire’s lack of sales and income tax. The town combines its coastal character with extensive retail development and easy access to both Boston and Portsmouth.
#10. Revere, MA
Revere has experienced substantial home value appreciation, climbing from $296,471 in June 2015 to $457,275 in June 2020, and reaching $600,125 by November 2024, showing a 102.4% increase. The city’s ongoing revitalization and proximity to Boston have driven strong property value growth.
Home to America’s first public beach, Revere offers a diverse urban coastal environment with easy access to Boston. The city has undergone significant development in recent years, adding modern amenities while maintaining its historic beach community character.
#9. Salisbury, MA
Salisbury’s home values have increased from $308,840 in June 2015 to $406,400 in June 2020, reaching $597,067 by November 2024, representing a 93.3% appreciation. The town’s beach community atmosphere and recreational opportunities have supported steady property value growth.
Located at the mouth of the Merrimack River, Salisbury offers extensive beaches and a popular summer resort area. The town combines its seasonal beach community character with year-round amenities and easy access to both Boston and Portsmouth.
#8. Kennebunk, ME
Kennebunk has seen home values rise from $275,882 in June 2015 to $380,202 in June 2020, reaching $593,253 by November 2024, marking a 115.0% increase. The town’s historic character and coastal charm have driven substantial property value appreciation.
Known for its pristine beaches and historic architecture, Kennebunk offers a perfect blend of coastal living and small-town charm. The town features the popular Kennebunk Beach, a vibrant downtown area, and historic districts filled with well-preserved Federal and Colonial architecture.
#7. Hampton, NH
Hampton’s home values have grown from $296,053 in June 2015 to $378,907 in June 2020, reaching $587,412 by November 2024, showing a 98.4% appreciation. The town’s popular beach area and year-round community have supported consistent property value growth.
Home to Hampton Beach, one of New England’s most popular summer destinations, the town offers an active boardwalk area and extensive entertainment options. The community maintains a strong year-round population with diverse housing options away from the beach area.
#6. Rockport, ME
Rockport has experienced home value growth from $285,396 in June 2015 to $325,443 in June 2020, reaching $577,110 by November 2024, representing a 102.2% increase. The town’s scenic harbor and artistic community have contributed to steady property value appreciation.
This picturesque coastal town offers a perfect blend of maritime heritage and cultural attractions. Rockport features a beautiful working harbor, the Center for Maine Contemporary Art, and maintains a quieter, more residential character compared to neighboring Camden.
#5. Westerly, RI
Westerly’s home values have increased from $291,505 in June 2015 to $363,886 in June 2020, reaching $561,152 by November 2024, marking a 92.5% increase. The town’s combination of beach communities and historic downtown has supported steady property value growth.
Known for its beautiful beaches including Misquamicut and Watch Hill, Westerly offers diverse coastal environments from exclusive Watch Hill to family-friendly beach areas. The town maintains a vibrant downtown area and strong year-round community while serving as a popular summer destination.
#4. Wells, ME
Wells has seen home values climb from $248,603 in June 2015 to $335,503 in June 2020, reaching $531,874 by November 2024, showing a 113.9% appreciation. The town’s extensive beaches and natural areas have driven substantial property value growth.
Known as the “Friendliest Town in Maine,” Wells offers seven miles of oceanfront beaches, extensive wildlife refuges, and a strong year-round community. The town balances its tourist appeal with a authentic coastal character and convenient location between Portland and Portsmouth.
#3. Scituate, RI
Scituate’s home values have risen from $263,297 in June 2015 to $351,603 in June 2020, reaching $520,539 by November 2024, representing a 97.7% increase. The town’s coastal location and historic character have contributed to steady property value appreciation.
While not directly on the ocean, Scituate offers access to the coastal environment through Narragansett Bay, combined with a rich historic heritage. The town maintains a strong sense of community while providing easy access to Providence and coastal amenities.
#2. Old Orchard Beach, ME
Old Orchard Beach has experienced dramatic home value appreciation, climbing from $212,339 in June 2015 to $300,212 in June 2020, and reaching $486,559 by November 2024, marking the highest appreciation rate among coastal communities at 129.1%. This growth reflects the town’s increasing popularity as both a vacation destination and year-round community.
Famous for its seven-mile beach and pier, Old Orchard Beach represents one of Maine’s most popular beach resorts. The town combines its amusement park atmosphere and summer attractions with an increasingly desirable year-round community, offering more affordable coastal living compared to many New England beach towns.
#1. Biddeford, ME
Biddeford’s home values have shown remarkable growth, rising from $209,453 in June 2015 to $297,684 in June 2020, and reaching $477,736 by November 2024, representing a 128.1% increase. As the most affordable coastal community in New England, the city has seen substantial appreciation while maintaining relatively accessible price points.
A former mill town experiencing significant revitalization, Biddeford offers a unique combination of historic architecture, emerging arts scene, and coastal access through its Biddeford Pool area. The city has become increasingly attractive to buyers priced out of Portland and other coastal markets, while maintaining its authentic working-class character and industrial heritage.
