According to the latest Zillow Home Value Index data through November 2024, the Boston-Cambridge-Newton metropolitan area’s 25 most expensive neighborhoods reveal fascinating patterns in one of America’s priciest real estate markets.
The data shows a clear dominance of suburban luxury, with Newton claiming 11 of the top 25 spots including 4 in the top 5, while Brookline’s Fisher Hill stands alone at the summit with an average home value of $3.15 million – more than 50% higher than its nearest competitor. This suburban preference challenges traditional assumptions about urban centers commanding the highest prices, as only three Boston proper neighborhoods – Downtown Crossing, Back Bay, and Bay Village – made the elite list.
Perhaps most revealing is the varied pace of appreciation across these premium markets, with Newton Lower Falls showing the highest growth at 84.6% since 2015, while established luxury areas like Downtown Crossing saw more modest gains of 35.0%.
The data also highlights interesting municipal dynamics, such as Chestnut Hill appearing twice on the list with different valuations depending on whether it falls within Newton or Brookline borders. Cambridge, despite its globally renowned universities, places just two neighborhoods in the top 25, while every neighborhood in the ranking has crossed the million-dollar threshold, with even the 25th-ranked Lawrence area in Brookline averaging nearly $1.2 million.
#25. Lawrence (Brookline)
Located adjacent to the Longwood Medical Area, Lawrence has seen property values rise from $820,067 in 2015 to $1,037,131 in 2020, reaching $1,193,789 in 2024 – a 45.6% increase over nine years. This Brookline neighborhood benefits from its proximity to medical institutions and educational facilities while maintaining a quieter, more residential character than neighboring areas, offering residents a perfect blend of urban convenience and residential charm.
#24. Davis Square (Somerville)
Davis Square has transformed from a working-class neighborhood into a vibrant cultural hub, with property values increasing from $767,974 in 2015 to $1,045,726 in 2020, and reaching $1,213,491 in 2024 – a 58.0% rise. This Somerville neighborhood combines excellent Red Line access with diverse dining options and entertainment venues, attracting young professionals and families while maintaining its distinctive artistic character and strong community feel.
#23. Bay Village (Boston)
As Boston’s smallest official neighborhood, Bay Village has seen values climb from $955,227 in 2015 to $1,142,246 in 2020, reaching $1,214,008 in 2024 – a 27.1% increase. This intimate enclave between the South End and Downtown features historic Federal-style row houses and gas-lit streets, offering a unique blend of historic charm and central location that continues to attract residents seeking a distinctive urban living experience.
#22. Newton Upper Falls (Newton)
This historic mill village along the Charles River has experienced substantial growth in property values, rising from $710,168 in 2015 to $873,395 in 2020, and reaching $1,220,030 in 2024 – a dramatic 71.8% increase. The neighborhood’s preserved mill buildings, natural surroundings, and strong community atmosphere have contributed to its growing appeal among buyers seeking a blend of historical character and modern amenities.
#21. Longwood (Brookline)
Longwood’s strategic location near the prestigious Longwood Medical Area has helped drive property values from $933,881 in 2015 to $1,140,035 in 2020, reaching $1,221,112 in 2024 – a 30.8% increase. The neighborhood’s mix of historic homes, proximity to the Green Line, and easy access to world-class hospitals and research institutions makes it particularly attractive to medical professionals and academics seeking a high-end residential environment.
#20. Aggasiz – Harvard North (Cambridge)
This prestigious Cambridge neighborhood near Harvard University has seen property values rise from $838,159 in 2015 to $1,076,715 in 2020, reaching $1,252,919 in 2024 – a 49.5% increase. The area combines academic prestige with residential charm, featuring tree-lined streets, historic homes, and easy access to Harvard Square’s cultural and commercial offerings, making it particularly attractive to academics and professionals seeking a sophisticated urban environment.
#19. Back Bay (Boston)
Back Bay’s iconic Victorian brownstones and premium location have supported property value growth from $998,459 in 2015 to $1,194,345 in 2020, reaching $1,263,882 in 2024 – a 26.6% increase. The neighborhood’s upscale shopping along Newbury Street, architectural grandeur, and central location continue to cement its position as one of Boston’s most prestigious addresses, attracting luxury buyers and maintaining its status as a premier urban destination.
#18. West Newton (Newton)
Centered around vibrant West Newton Square, this neighborhood has seen property values climb from $800,737 in 2015 to $966,749 in 2020, reaching $1,292,748 in 2024 – a 61.4% increase. The area’s historic architecture, diverse housing options, commuter rail access, and strong school system have contributed to its steady appreciation and appeal among families seeking a balanced suburban lifestyle with easy access to Boston.
#17. Dexter (Dedham)
Property values in this upscale Dedham neighborhood have risen from $792,348 in 2015 to $946,348 in 2020, reaching $1,318,406 in 2024 – a substantial 66.4% increase. Its proximity to Legacy Place shopping center, historic homes, strong school system, and excellent access to Boston have driven its significant growth, making it increasingly attractive to buyers seeking a premium suburban location with urban conveniences.
#16. Aspinwall Hill (Brookline)
Rising above Washington Square in Brookline, Aspinwall Hill has seen property values increase from $911,240 in 2015 to $1,167,344 in 2020, reaching $1,323,228 in 2024 – a 45.2% increase. The neighborhood’s elevated location offers panoramic views, while its mix of architectural styles, quiet streets, and proximity to the Green Line have maintained its desirability among discerning buyers seeking a premium Brookline address.
#15. Auburndale (Newton)
This Charles River adjacent neighborhood has experienced strong growth, with values rising from $785,671 in 2015 to $979,956 in 2020, reaching $1,341,208 in 2024 – a 70.7% increase. Auburndale’s combination of riverside recreation, excellent commuter access, varied housing styles, and strong community feel has driven its popularity among buyers seeking a premium suburban location with natural amenities.
#14. Newton Lower Falls (Newton)
Nestled along the Charles River at Newton’s western edge, Lower Falls has seen remarkable growth from $734,979 in 2015 to $915,945 in 2020, reaching $1,357,096 in 2024 – an impressive 84.6% increase. The area’s historic mill architecture, natural beauty, strong community bonds, and proximity to Wellesley have contributed to its substantial value appreciation and growing appeal among luxury buyers.
#13. Newtonville (Newton)
Centered around a vibrant village center, Newtonville property values have climbed from $879,550 in 2015 to $1,056,821 in 2020, reaching $1,419,718 in 2024 – a 61.4% increase. The neighborhood’s mix of housing options, commuter rail access, strong commercial district, and community atmosphere have supported its consistent growth and appeal among families seeking a premium suburban location.
#12. Emerson Garden (Brookline)
Named for its historic park, Emerson Garden has seen values rise from $1,017,543 in 2015 to $1,293,515 in 2020, reaching $1,464,075 in 2024 – a 43.9% increase. The neighborhood’s peaceful residential atmosphere near Brookline Village, combined with its mix of single-family homes and apartments and easy access to Boston, has maintained its strong market position among Brookline’s most desirable areas.
#11. Chestnut Hill (Newton)
This section of Chestnut Hill has experienced substantial growth, with values increasing from $913,886 in 2015 to $1,147,221 in 2020, reaching $1,543,438 in 2024 – a 68.9% rise. Straddling Newton, Brookline, and Boston, the area offers prestigious residential options near Boston College, with its combination of luxury shopping, golf courses, and expansive estates cementing its position among the region’s most desirable locations.
#10. High Street Hill (Brookline)
Known historically as Pill Hill, this neighborhood has seen values climb from $1,080,861 in 2015 to $1,354,996 in 2020, reaching $1,594,113 in 2024 – a 47.5% increase. The area’s elevated location, impressive Victorian architecture, historic significance as home to many medical professionals, and proximity to both the Longwood Medical Area and Jamaica Plain have maintained its premium status in the market.
#9. Newton Corner (Newton)
Located at a major transportation hub, Newton Corner properties have appreciated from $984,111 in 2015 to $1,168,034 in 2020, reaching $1,603,282 in 2024 – a 62.9% increase. The neighborhood’s mix of housing styles, ranging from Victorian mansions to modern apartments, combined with its excellent accessibility and historic charm, has driven its strong appreciation in the competitive Newton market.
#8. West Cambridge (Cambridge)
West Cambridge real estate has grown steadily from $1,022,457 in 2015 to $1,328,422 in 2020, reaching $1,620,965 in 2024 – a 58.5% increase. The neighborhood offers a sophisticated blend of historic homes and modern amenities near Harvard Square, with its academic atmosphere, cultural resources, and beautiful architecture maintaining its position among the area’s most desirable locations.
#7. Chestnut Hill (Brookline)
The Brookline section of Chestnut Hill has seen values rise from $1,007,340 in 2015 to $1,217,470 in 2020, reaching $1,642,932 in 2024 – a 63.1% increase. This area exemplifies luxury suburban living with urban convenience, as its proximity to The Street and Chestnut Hill Mall, combined with its estate-style homes and excellent schools, has driven its consistent appreciation in value.
#6. Downtown Crossing (Boston)
Downtown Crossing has transformed from a commercial hub to a luxury residential destination, with values increasing from $1,276,565 in 2015 to $1,649,804 in 2020, reaching $1,723,659 in 2024 – a 35.0% rise. The neighborhood’s central location, luxury residential towers, extensive shopping and dining options, and ongoing development have established it as one of Boston’s most valuable residential areas.
#5. Newton Highlands (Newton)
Newton Highlands has experienced dramatic growth, with values climbing from $1,007,308 in 2015 to $1,218,871 in 2020, reaching $1,738,889 in 2024 – a 72.6% increase. Known for its village-like atmosphere and Green Line access, the neighborhood combines suburban tranquility with urban convenience, while its mix of Victorian homes, strong school system, and vibrant village center have contributed to its substantial appreciation.
#4. Oak Hill (Newton)
Oak Hill has seen remarkable value growth from $1,008,202 in 2015 to $1,218,582 in 2020, reaching $1,834,018 in 2024 – an 81.9% increase. This prestigious Newton neighborhood offers some of the city’s most impressive addresses amid rolling hills and winding roads, with its large lots, luxurious homes, and proximity to conservation areas driving its significant value appreciation.
#3. Newton Centre (Newton)
As Newton’s primary commercial hub, Newton Centre has seen values rise from $1,073,220 in 2015 to $1,284,107 in 2020, reaching $1,853,613 in 2024 – a 72.7% increase. The neighborhood combines urban amenities with suburban grace, while its diverse housing stock, vibrant shopping district, and excellent schools have maintained its position among the metro area’s most expensive locations.
#2. Waban (Newton)
Waban exemplifies Newton’s reputation for elegant suburban living, with values growing from $1,155,458 in 2015 to $1,363,470 in 2020, reaching $2,003,413 in 2024 – a 73.4% increase. The neighborhood’s expansive lots, architectural diversity, and combination of natural beauty with convenient Green Line access have established it as one of the metro area’s most prestigious residential locations.
#1. Fisher Hill (Brookline)
Leading the metro area in property values, Fisher Hill has appreciated from $1,978,131 in 2015 to $2,306,737 in 2020, reaching $3,151,488 in 2024 – a 59.3% increase. The neighborhood’s grand estates, Frederick Law Olmsted-designed landscape, historic mansions, and expansive lots, combined with its perfect balance of privacy and proximity to Boston, have maintained its position as the region’s most prestigious residential area.
