Massachusetts may be one of the most expensive housing markets in the country, but there are still towns where buyers can find a foothold. According to the Zillow Home Value Index there are still pockets of affordability across the state. From quiet Berkshires hamlets to old mill towns finding new life, these places offer home prices well below the state average—without being stagnant.
Many of these towns have posted steady growth over time, making them attractive to budget-conscious buyers looking for both affordability and long-term upside. This list of the 20 least expensive towns in Massachusetts reveals where home prices remain relatively modest even as the broader market continues to climb. If you’re wondering where your dollar might go further in the Bay State, this roundup has the answers.
20. Peru – 101% Home Price Increase Since 2010
- 2010: $160,982
- 2011: $157,892 (-$3,090, -1.92% from previous year)
- 2012: $158,289 (+$397, +0.25% from previous year)
- 2013: $158,110 (-$179, -0.11% from previous year)
- 2014: $161,725 (+$3,614, +2.29% from previous year)
- 2015: $165,964 (+$4,239, +2.62% from previous year)
- 2016: $177,488 (+$11,525, +6.94% from previous year)
- 2017: $186,689 (+$9,201, +5.18% from previous year)
- 2018: $192,956 (+$6,267, +3.36% from previous year)
- 2019: $195,752 (+$2,796, +1.45% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $245,032
- 2022: $279,374 (+$34,342, +14.02% from previous year)
- 2023: $285,386 (+$6,012, +2.15% from previous year)
- 2024: $310,415 (+$25,029, +8.77% from previous year)
- 2025: $323,030 (+$12,615, +4.06% from previous year)
Home values in Peru have more than doubled since 2010, despite a modest pace of growth in the early years. From 2010 to 2019, prices rose incrementally, averaging under 3% annual growth. But starting in 2021, demand jumped significantly—pushing the median price to over $320,000 by 2025. While Peru remains the least expensive town in Massachusetts, its recent trajectory suggests increasing buyer interest.
Peru – A Quiet Rural Option With Growing Interest
Located in the Berkshires in western Massachusetts, Peru is a small town surrounded by natural beauty, including parts of October Mountain State Forest and Peru State Forest. With limited commercial development and a quiet, wooded environment, it has traditionally appealed to those seeking seclusion and low housing costs.
However, recent price growth indicates rising demand, potentially from remote workers and retirees seeking affordability away from denser urban centers. The town’s 2025 median price of $323,030 may still seem modest by Massachusetts standards, but for those priced out of other markets, Peru is becoming less of a secret.
19. Erving – 68% Home Price Increase Since 2010
- 2010: $192,077
- 2011: $187,728 (-$4,349, -2.26% from previous year)
- 2012: $170,090 (-$17,638, -9.40% from previous year)
- 2013: $172,599 (+$2,510, +1.48% from previous year)
- 2014: $176,260 (+$3,661, +2.12% from previous year)
- 2015: $180,755 (+$4,495, +2.55% from previous year)
- 2016: $187,152 (+$6,397, +3.54% from previous year)
- 2017: $192,311 (+$5,159, +2.76% from previous year)
- 2018: $199,602 (+$7,291, +3.79% from previous year)
- 2019: $209,811 (+$10,209, +5.11% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $250,918
- 2022: $279,639 (+$28,721, +11.45% from previous year)
- 2023: $289,455 (+$9,816, +3.51% from previous year)
- 2024: $306,642 (+$17,187, +5.94% from previous year)
- 2025: $322,313 (+$15,671, +5.11% from previous year)
Erving’s home values climbed from $192,077 in 2010 to $322,313 in 2025—an increase of 68% over 15 years. Although prices dipped sharply in 2012, they rebounded steadily, with particularly strong growth from 2021 onward. The sharp rise suggests increasing demand in this quiet corner of western Massachusetts.
Erving – Affordable Living Near the Connecticut River
Tucked along the Connecticut River in Franklin County, Erving offers a small-town lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty. It’s a quiet community known for its outdoor recreation options, including forest trails and fishing access. Despite its rural feel, Erving connects easily to nearby Greenfield via Route 2.
The town’s affordability, combined with modest but steady growth, makes it attractive to buyers looking to escape higher prices elsewhere in the Pioneer Valley. With home prices still well below the state average, Erving remains a compelling option for value-driven buyers.
18. Savoy – 32% Home Price Increase Since 2021
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: N/A
- 2016: N/A
- 2017: N/A
- 2018: N/A
- 2019: N/A
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $242,385
- 2022: $280,405 (+$38,020, +15.69% from previous year)
- 2023: $287,799 (+$7,394, +2.64% from previous year)
- 2024: $301,732 (+$13,933, +4.84% from previous year)
- 2025: $320,685 (+$18,953, +6.28% from previous year)
Savoy lacks recorded home price data before 2021, but since then, values have surged more than 32%. The median price climbed from $242,385 to $320,685 by 2025. These steady increases suggest this small town is gaining traction with buyers seeking rural affordability and room to grow.
Savoy – Small-Town Growth in the Berkshires
Located in Berkshire County, Savoy is a hilltown characterized by scenic ridgelines and low population density. Its economy and housing stock are modest, but its natural surroundings make it attractive to those who prioritize privacy, space, and outdoor living.
With more buyers willing to trade urban convenience for tranquility, Savoy’s market is finally seeing upward movement. Its position in the northern Berkshires also places it within reach of North Adams and Pittsfield for work or amenities, which helps support its appeal.
17. Turners Falls – 71% Home Price Increase Since 2010
- 2010: $185,775
- 2011: $180,024 (-$5,752, -3.10% from previous year)
- 2012: $163,557 (-$16,467, -9.15% from previous year)
- 2013: $162,721 (-$836, -0.51% from previous year)
- 2014: $167,117 (+$4,397, +2.70% from previous year)
- 2015: $168,991 (+$1,874, +1.12% from previous year)
- 2016: $174,400 (+$5,409, +3.20% from previous year)
- 2017: $178,671 (+$4,271, +2.45% from previous year)
- 2018: $188,769 (+$10,098, +5.65% from previous year)
- 2019: $192,795 (+$4,026, +2.13% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $232,349
- 2022: $260,339 (+$27,990, +12.05% from previous year)
- 2023: $279,035 (+$18,696, +7.18% from previous year)
- 2024: $299,639 (+$20,604, +7.38% from previous year)
- 2025: $316,787 (+$17,148, +5.72% from previous year)
Turners Falls has experienced a 71% increase in home prices since 2010. After several stagnant years early in the decade, prices picked up pace after 2016 and jumped dramatically from 2021 forward. By 2025, the median home price reached $316,787—still on the lower end for Massachusetts, but clearly trending upward.
Turners Falls – Revitalization Along the Connecticut River
MMZach, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
A former industrial hub, Turners Falls is part of Montague in Franklin County and is undergoing a quiet renaissance. Its walkable downtown, historic mills, and access to the Connecticut River have made it increasingly popular with both artists and commuters.
Its housing market reflects this renewed interest. Affordable prices combined with slow but steady investment in infrastructure and culture have helped reframe Turners Falls as a place worth watching, especially for first-time buyers or downsizers.
16. Palmer – 84% Home Price Increase Since 2016
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: N/A
- 2016: $172,047
- 2017: $176,689 (+$4,643, +2.70% from previous year)
- 2018: $188,947 (+$12,257, +6.94% from previous year)
- 2019: $194,527 (+$5,580, +2.95% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $238,550
- 2022: $266,432 (+$27,882, +11.69% from previous year)
- 2023: $277,499 (+$11,067, +4.15% from previous year)
- 2024: $301,540 (+$24,040, +8.66% from previous year)
- 2025: $316,562 (+$15,022, +4.98% from previous year)
Since 2016, Palmer’s home prices have increased by 84%, rising from $172,047 to $316,562. Growth accelerated significantly after 2021, driven by broader market trends and Palmer’s strategic location. Despite the increase, it remains one of the more affordable towns in central Massachusetts.
Palmer – Gateway Town With Solid Growth
Palmer is located in Hampden County and is often referred to as the “Town of Seven Railroads” thanks to its deep roots in transportation. Today, its highway access and low housing costs make it an attractive alternative to nearby Springfield or Worcester.
Palmer’s blend of rural character, small-town services, and central location is helping drive its strong growth in home values. The steady appreciation since 2016 suggests a healthy market, with continued interest from families and commuters alike.
15. Holyoke – 79% Home Price Increase Since 2010
- 2010: $175,545
- 2011: $164,760 (-$10,785, -6.14% from previous year)
- 2012: $160,691 (-$4,069, -2.47% from previous year)
- 2013: $162,626 (+$1,935, +1.20% from previous year)
- 2014: $168,440 (+$5,814, +3.57% from previous year)
- 2015: $170,859 (+$2,419, +1.44% from previous year)
- 2016: $176,336 (+$5,477, +3.21% from previous year)
- 2017: $183,049 (+$6,713, +3.81% from previous year)
- 2018: $191,517 (+$8,468, +4.63% from previous year)
- 2019: $203,858 (+$12,340, +6.44% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $247,645
- 2022: $270,781 (+$23,136, +9.34% from previous year)
- 2023: $283,597 (+$12,816, +4.73% from previous year)
- 2024: $300,348 (+$16,751, +5.91% from previous year)
- 2025: $314,034 (+$13,686, +4.56% from previous year)
Home prices in Holyoke rose 79% from 2010 to 2025, increasing from $175,545 to $314,034. Although the city experienced a decline during the early 2010s, values began climbing steadily by 2014 and surged after 2020. This consistent appreciation has positioned Holyoke as a rising market among the state’s most affordable cities.
Holyoke – Industrial Roots and Urban Revival
Situated along the Connecticut River in Hampden County, Holyoke is a city with a rich industrial past and growing prospects for the future. Once known for paper mills and hydroelectric power, the city is now attracting attention for its affordability, historic architecture, and improving downtown.
The recent boost in home values is supported by new development projects, infrastructure improvements, and proximity to Amherst and Northampton. While Holyoke remains one of the most budget-friendly urban areas in Massachusetts, its increasing prices signal changing tides.
14. Plainfield – 49% Home Price Increase Since 2010
- 2010: $207,997
- 2011: $198,011 (-$9,986, -4.80% from previous year)
- 2012: $191,968 (-$6,043, -3.05% from previous year)
- 2013: $175,308 (-$16,660, -8.68% from previous year)
- 2014: $182,382 (+$7,074, +4.04% from previous year)
- 2015: $192,736 (+$10,353, +5.68% from previous year)
- 2016: $203,180 (+$10,444, +5.42% from previous year)
- 2017: $211,920 (+$8,740, +4.30% from previous year)
- 2018: $219,657 (+$7,738, +3.65% from previous year)
- 2019: $227,932 (+$8,275, +3.77% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $274,458
- 2022: $293,622 (+$19,163, +6.98% from previous year)
- 2023: $295,085 (+$1,464, +0.50% from previous year)
- 2024: $302,586 (+$7,501, +2.54% from previous year)
- 2025: $309,108 (+$6,522, +2.16% from previous year)
Plainfield’s housing market has grown by 49% since 2010, increasing from $207,997 to $309,108. After declines in the early 2010s, prices rebounded steadily, with a large jump between 2020 and 2021. While growth has cooled slightly since then, prices continue to inch upward, indicating a stable market.
Plainfield – Rural Charm With Quiet Momentum
Plainfield is a sparsely populated town in Hampshire County nestled in the hills of western Massachusetts. It’s ideal for those seeking peace and quiet, with rolling farmland, forested trails, and few commercial developments. That charm has been drawing buyers priced out of denser towns nearby.
Despite a slow start in the last decade, recent data shows renewed confidence in the local market. Buyers interested in rural life without sacrificing long-term home value have started turning to places like Plainfield for their next move.
13. Chicopee – 79% Home Price Increase Since 2010
- 2010: $172,558
- 2011: $164,476 (-$8,082, -4.68% from previous year)
- 2012: $156,353 (-$8,123, -4.94% from previous year)
- 2013: $156,491 (+$138, +0.09% from previous year)
- 2014: $160,687 (+$4,196, +2.68% from previous year)
- 2015: $162,331 (+$1,644, +1.02% from previous year)
- 2016: $168,585 (+$6,254, +3.85% from previous year)
- 2017: $175,607 (+$7,022, +4.17% from previous year)
- 2018: $185,007 (+$9,400, +5.35% from previous year)
- 2019: $192,039 (+$7,033, +3.80% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $236,517
- 2022: $261,780 (+$25,263, +10.68% from previous year)
- 2023: $273,170 (+$11,389, +4.35% from previous year)
- 2024: $294,852 (+$21,682, +7.94% from previous year)
- 2025: $308,429 (+$13,577, +4.60% from previous year)
Chicopee’s median home price grew from $172,558 in 2010 to $308,429 in 2025—an increase of 79%. Early in the decade, prices dropped slightly before a slow and steady recovery took hold. Since 2021, prices have grown more sharply, with several years of strong double-digit and high single-digit growth.
Chicopee – Affordability in a Central Location
Located just north of Springfield, Chicopee is one of western Massachusetts’s larger cities and offers excellent access to I-91 and the Massachusetts Turnpike. It has traditionally served as an affordable alternative to neighboring communities while offering a similar urban-suburban mix.
Thanks to its solid public schools, proximity to major employers, and ample housing stock, Chicopee has become increasingly attractive to first-time buyers and investors alike. While it remains affordable compared to the Boston area, rising prices suggest that may not last.
12. Orange – 110% Home Price Increase Since 2010
- 2010: $146,795
- 2011: $141,417 (-$5,378, -3.66% from previous year)
- 2012: $127,323 (-$14,094, -9.97% from previous year)
- 2013: $126,993 (-$330, -0.26% from previous year)
- 2014: $129,482 (+$2,489, +1.96% from previous year)
- 2015: $134,113 (+$4,632, +3.58% from previous year)
- 2016: $138,570 (+$4,457, +3.32% from previous year)
- 2017: $145,261 (+$6,691, +4.83% from previous year)
- 2018: $157,581 (+$12,319, +8.48% from previous year)
- 2019: $172,625 (+$15,044, +9.55% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $219,521
- 2022: $252,850 (+$33,329, +15.18% from previous year)
- 2023: $264,801 (+$11,951, +4.73% from previous year)
- 2024: $289,199 (+$24,398, +9.21% from previous year)
- 2025: $308,149 (+$18,951, +6.55% from previous year)
Home prices in Orange more than doubled between 2010 and 2025, growing by 110%. After dipping in the early part of the decade, the town saw a strong rebound beginning around 2015. The period from 2021 onward brought rapid appreciation, with particularly sharp gains in 2022 and 2024.
Orange – Former Mill Town With Rising Appeal
Orange is located along the Millers River in Franklin County and has deep manufacturing roots. While its economy has changed, the town retains its classic New England charm and offers some of the lowest housing prices in the state.
The recent surge in prices reflects renewed interest in outlying areas, particularly among buyers seeking space, affordability, and value. Orange offers all three, plus access to Route 2 for commuting across central Massachusetts.
11. Millers Falls – 103% Home Price Increase Since 2010
- 2010: $150,266
- 2011: $147,634 (-$2,631, -1.75% from previous year)
- 2012: $134,787 (-$12,847, -8.70% from previous year)
- 2013: $135,123 (+$336, +0.25% from previous year)
- 2014: $140,550 (+$5,427, +4.02% from previous year)
- 2015: $141,247 (+$696, +0.50% from previous year)
- 2016: $148,125 (+$6,879, +4.87% from previous year)
- 2017: $153,810 (+$5,684, +3.84% from previous year)
- 2018: $164,955 (+$11,145, +7.25% from previous year)
- 2019: $169,103 (+$4,148, +2.51% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $214,826
- 2022: $242,896 (+$28,070, +13.07% from previous year)
- 2023: $262,647 (+$19,751, +8.13% from previous year)
- 2024: $288,513 (+$25,865, +9.85% from previous year)
- 2025: $305,575 (+$17,062, +5.91% from previous year)
Millers Falls has seen home prices increase 103% since 2010. After some early dips, values began to rise steadily around 2014, with sharp acceleration from 2021 forward. By 2025, prices had doubled from where they started, hitting $305,575.
Millers Falls – Historic Hamlet With New Momentum
Millers Falls, a small village straddling Montague and Erving, has an industrial past and a quiet present. Once centered around manufacturing, today it offers affordable housing, a scenic river, and easy access to Route 2 and Greenfield.
Its price gains reflect the broader trend of rising demand in secondary markets. As affordability continues to erode in larger cities, places like Millers Falls are becoming increasingly attractive to both first-time homebuyers and investors.
10. Colrain – 66% Home Price Increase Since 2010
- 2010: $182,523
- 2011: $177,575 (-$4,948, -2.71% from previous year)
- 2012: $161,612 (-$15,964, -8.99% from previous year)
- 2013: $157,854 (-$3,758, -2.33% from previous year)
- 2014: $160,606 (+$2,752, +1.74% from previous year)
- 2015: $170,556 (+$9,950, +6.20% from previous year)
- 2016: $170,314 (-$242, -0.14% from previous year)
- 2017: $176,549 (+$6,235, +3.66% from previous year)
- 2018: $183,117 (+$6,568, +3.72% from previous year)
- 2019: $188,988 (+$5,871, +3.21% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $236,627
- 2022: $259,073 (+$22,446, +9.49% from previous year)
- 2023: $270,541 (+$11,468, +4.43% from previous year)
- 2024: $294,414 (+$23,873, +8.82% from previous year)
- 2025: $303,536 (+$9,122, +3.10% from previous year)
Colrain’s home values have increased 66% since 2010, growing from $182,523 to $303,536. While the early part of the decade saw some price declines, the town has experienced steady appreciation since 2015. The last five years have been especially strong, with consistent gains each year.
Colrain – Scenic Solitude With Steady Value
Located in the hill country of Franklin County, Colrain is a rural town surrounded by winding rivers, forested roads, and scenic farmland. It’s not a major commercial center, but it offers privacy and affordability to those who don’t mind a longer drive to amenities.
The increase in prices reflects shifting buyer interest toward tranquil, less-developed places with reasonable price points. Colrain’s continued growth signals that its low-key appeal is resonating in a high-cost housing environment.
9. Pittsfield – 93% Home Price Increase Since 2010
- 2010: $155,719
- 2011: $157,199 (+$1,480, +0.95% from previous year)
- 2012: $152,219 (-$4,980, -3.17% from previous year)
- 2013: $150,710 (-$1,509, -0.99% from previous year)
- 2014: $154,255 (+$3,545, +2.35% from previous year)
- 2015: $155,198 (+$943, +0.61% from previous year)
- 2016: $159,522 (+$4,324, +2.79% from previous year)
- 2017: $161,828 (+$2,306, +1.45% from previous year)
- 2018: $169,620 (+$7,792, +4.81% from previous year)
- 2019: $176,205 (+$6,585, +3.88% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $214,035
- 2022: $250,086 (+$36,051, +16.84% from previous year)
- 2023: $265,210 (+$15,124, +6.05% from previous year)
- 2024: $285,757 (+$20,548, +7.75% from previous year)
- 2025: $300,789 (+$15,031, +5.26% from previous year)
Pittsfield home prices rose from $155,719 in 2010 to $300,789 in 2025, a 93% increase. Modest growth through the 2010s gave way to sharp gains starting in 2021, mirroring broader trends across the state. The city has emerged as a regional hotspot for value-focused buyers.
Pittsfield – A Cultural Hub With Affordable Housing
As the largest city in Berkshire County, Pittsfield offers a unique mix of affordability and amenities. It’s home to theaters, art museums, and outdoor destinations like Onota Lake. The city has been investing in revitalizing its downtown, helping boost its appeal.
Despite these enhancements, Pittsfield remains relatively affordable, especially compared to eastern Massachusetts. Its recent home price surge underscores a growing recognition of its cultural richness, job opportunities, and scenic setting.
8. Wendell – 81% Home Price Increase Since 2010
- 2010: $163,019
- 2011: $165,288 (+$2,269, +1.39% from previous year)
- 2012: $151,488 (-$13,800, -8.35% from previous year)
- 2013: $150,362 (-$1,127, -0.74% from previous year)
- 2014: $155,034 (+$4,672, +3.11% from previous year)
- 2015: $162,518 (+$7,484, +4.83% from previous year)
- 2016: $166,169 (+$3,651, +2.25% from previous year)
- 2017: $172,073 (+$5,904, +3.55% from previous year)
- 2018: $181,172 (+$9,099, +5.29% from previous year)
- 2019: $181,073 (-$99, -0.05% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $220,985
- 2022: $245,028 (+$24,043, +10.88% from previous year)
- 2023: $250,430 (+$5,402, +2.20% from previous year)
- 2024: $281,388 (+$30,957, +12.36% from previous year)
- 2025: $295,677 (+$14,290, +5.08% from previous year)
Wendell has seen home values increase by 81% since 2010, reaching $295,677 in 2025. After a dip in the early 2010s, the market rebounded steadily. Prices climbed rapidly after 2020, especially in 2022 and 2024, reflecting new demand for homes in rural settings.
Wendell – Remote and Resilient
Wendell is a tiny, off-the-grid town in Franklin County, famous for its progressive spirit, natural surroundings, and deep sense of community. Its lack of commercial development and low housing stock have long kept prices down—but that’s changing.
Buyers looking for remote, eco-conscious living are finding Wendell attractive. Its recent growth in home values suggests that the town’s appeal is growing well beyond its once-niche audience.
7. Chester – 70% Home Price Increase Since 2010
- 2010: $172,196
- 2011: $166,998 (-$5,198, -3.02% from previous year)
- 2012: $143,533 (-$23,466, -14.05% from previous year)
- 2013: $148,172 (+$4,640, +3.23% from previous year)
- 2014: $153,299 (+$5,127, +3.46% from previous year)
- 2015: $155,714 (+$2,414, +1.57% from previous year)
- 2016: $164,173 (+$8,460, +5.43% from previous year)
- 2017: $170,447 (+$6,274, +3.82% from previous year)
- 2018: $173,104 (+$2,656, +1.56% from previous year)
- 2019: $180,164 (+$7,060, +4.08% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $219,685
- 2022: $247,411 (+$27,725, +12.62% from previous year)
- 2023: $252,266 (+$4,855, +1.96% from previous year)
- 2024: $276,414 (+$24,147, +9.57% from previous year)
- 2025: $292,279 (+$15,865, +5.74% from previous year)
Chester’s housing market has grown 70% since 2010, with prices rising from $172,196 to $292,279. The market struggled early in the decade, but rebounded with impressive momentum in recent years—especially following 2020.
Chester – Small-Town Stability in Western Mass
Chester is a quiet town in Hampden County tucked into the hills near the Westfield River. It’s home to parks, trails, and historic sites like the Chester Railway Station. Its remote charm has always been part of the draw for residents seeking affordability.
The sharp increase in prices since 2021 reflects growing interest in the region from remote workers and retirees alike. With easy access to the Berkshires and Springfield, Chester has become an affordable middle ground for many buyers.
6. Springfield – 109% Home Price Increase Since 2010
- 2010: $138,825
- 2011: $131,231 (-$7,594, -5.47% from previous year)
- 2012: $121,694 (-$9,537, -7.27% from previous year)
- 2013: $123,289 (+$1,595, +1.31% from previous year)
- 2014: $127,555 (+$4,266, +3.46% from previous year)
- 2015: $129,791 (+$2,236, +1.75% from previous year)
- 2016: $136,401 (+$6,610, +5.09% from previous year)
- 2017: $146,499 (+$10,098, +7.40% from previous year)
- 2018: $157,589 (+$11,090, +7.57% from previous year)
- 2019: $167,544 (+$9,955, +6.32% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $216,944
- 2022: $245,942 (+$28,998, +13.37% from previous year)
- 2023: $254,949 (+$9,007, +3.66% from previous year)
- 2024: $277,194 (+$22,244, +8.72% from previous year)
- 2025: $290,376 (+$13,183, +4.76% from previous year)
Springfield’s home values have jumped 109% since 2010, nearly doubling in 15 years. After a rocky start, the city’s market began to gain traction in the mid-2010s and has accelerated dramatically since 2020. Prices reached $290,376 in 2025—still relatively low for a city its size.
Springfield – Affordability in the Commonwealth’s Second-Largest City
Springfield is Massachusetts’s third-largest city and the economic heart of the Pioneer Valley. Known for its diverse neighborhoods and historical significance as the birthplace of basketball, it’s home to major institutions like Baystate Health and MassMutual.
Despite its growth, Springfield continues to offer some of the most affordable housing in the state. Its recent price increases suggest strong buyer interest, fueled by urban amenities, transportation access, and expanding job opportunities.
5. Clarksburg – 74% Home Price Increase Since 2010
- 2010: $152,317
- 2011: $136,545 (-$15,772, -10.35% from previous year)
- 2012: $135,647 (-$898, -0.66% from previous year)
- 2013: $136,822 (+$1,175, +0.87% from previous year)
- 2014: $137,466 (+$645, +0.47% from previous year)
- 2015: $140,168 (+$2,702, +1.97% from previous year)
- 2016: $144,914 (+$4,746, +3.39% from previous year)
- 2017: $144,457 (-$458, -0.32% from previous year)
- 2018: $155,041 (+$10,584, +7.33% from previous year)
- 2019: $158,960 (+$3,919, +2.53% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $195,287
- 2022: $228,929 (+$33,642, +17.23% from previous year)
- 2023: $236,424 (+$7,495, +3.27% from previous year)
- 2024: $254,870 (+$18,446, +7.80% from previous year)
- 2025: $265,504 (+$10,634, +4.17% from previous year)
Home prices in Clarksburg have risen by 74% since 2010. After a significant decline in the early part of the decade, values recovered slowly at first before surging in recent years—particularly between 2021 and 2022. The town’s 2025 median price of $265,504 still places it among the most affordable communities in the state.
Clarksburg – Northern Berkshire Affordability
Clarksburg sits at the northern tip of Berkshire County along the Vermont border. A small, quiet town with scenic views of the Hoosac Range, it offers a rural lifestyle with easy access to North Adams just minutes away. Outdoor activities and nearby state forests enhance its appeal.
Recent gains in home values reflect increasing demand in this under-the-radar community. For those seeking privacy and natural beauty without the steep prices of nearby Williamstown, Clarksburg offers a solid alternative with potential for long-term value growth.
4. Adams – 97% Home Price Increase Since 2010
- 2010: $129,339
- 2011: $129,157 (-$182, -0.14% from previous year)
- 2012: $125,261 (-$3,896, -3.02% from previous year)
- 2013: $123,712 (-$1,549, -1.24% from previous year)
- 2014: $126,975 (+$3,263, +2.64% from previous year)
- 2015: $126,928 (-$47, -0.04% from previous year)
- 2016: $134,558 (+$7,630, +6.01% from previous year)
- 2017: $135,975 (+$1,417, +1.05% from previous year)
- 2018: $143,286 (+$7,311, +5.38% from previous year)
- 2019: $145,983 (+$2,697, +1.88% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $177,559
- 2022: $206,033 (+$28,473, +16.04% from previous year)
- 2023: $217,061 (+$11,028, +5.35% from previous year)
- 2024: $237,556 (+$20,495, +9.44% from previous year)
- 2025: $255,028 (+$17,472, +7.35% from previous year)
Adams has nearly doubled in home value since 2010, rising from $129,339 to $255,028 in 2025. While much of that growth came post-2020, the town showed slow and steady gains in the years prior. The consistency of increases in recent years reflects a local market on the rise.
Adams – Classic New England Town at Bargain Prices
Nestled at the base of Mount Greylock, Adams is known for its historic mills, Victorian architecture, and proximity to the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail. The town combines scenic beauty with one of the lowest median home prices in the state.
With spillover from North Adams and cultural attractions like Mass MoCA nearby, Adams has become more attractive to buyers who want charm without the price tag. Its housing affordability, combined with ongoing investment in the community, make it a smart pick in 2025.
3. Florida – 99% Home Price Increase Since 2010
- 2010: $122,996
- 2011: $128,432 (+$5,436, +4.42% from previous year)
- 2012: $124,051 (-$4,381, -3.41% from previous year)
- 2013: $124,270 (+$219, +0.18% from previous year)
- 2014: $126,694 (+$2,424, +1.95% from previous year)
- 2015: $128,275 (+$1,581, +1.25% from previous year)
- 2016: $138,483 (+$10,208, +7.96% from previous year)
- 2017: $142,037 (+$3,553, +2.57% from previous year)
- 2018: $149,049 (+$7,013, +4.94% from previous year)
- 2019: $148,974 (-$75, -0.05% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $189,073
- 2022: $214,639 (+$25,566, +13.52% from previous year)
- 2023: $218,064 (+$3,425, +1.60% from previous year)
- 2024: $231,703 (+$13,639, +6.25% from previous year)
- 2025: $244,877 (+$13,174, +5.69% from previous year)
Florida, Massachusetts has seen prices rise 99% since 2010. While values held steady through much of the 2010s, strong post-2020 growth has nearly doubled the town’s median home price. It remains one of the most affordable towns in the state in absolute terms.
Florida – High Elevation, Low Cost
Don’t be fooled by the name—Florida, MA is a tiny mountaintop town in Berkshire County. It’s home to parts of the Mohawk Trail and the scenic Whitcomb Summit. Its elevation, isolation, and small population have kept home prices low for years.
But that is changing. Recent improvements in broadband and demand for second homes or remote retreats have pushed prices upward. With a 2025 median under $245,000, Florida still offers excellent value in one of Massachusetts’s most scenic regions.
2. North Adams – 106% Home Price Increase Since 2010
- 2010: $118,279
- 2011: $116,521 (-$1,758, -1.49% from previous year)
- 2012: $113,887 (-$2,633, -2.26% from previous year)
- 2013: $116,863 (+$2,976, +2.61% from previous year)
- 2014: $119,532 (+$2,668, +2.28% from previous year)
- 2015: $119,754 (+$222, +0.19% from previous year)
- 2016: $123,151 (+$3,397, +2.84% from previous year)
- 2017: $127,233 (+$4,082, +3.31% from previous year)
- 2018: $134,724 (+$7,492, +5.89% from previous year)
- 2019: $138,278 (+$3,553, +2.64% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $172,800
- 2022: $202,625 (+$29,824, +17.26% from previous year)
- 2023: $212,065 (+$9,440, +4.66% from previous year)
- 2024: $232,163 (+$20,099, +9.48% from previous year)
- 2025: $243,827 (+$11,664, +5.02% from previous year)
North Adams has seen a 106% increase in home values since 2010. Growth was slow but steady until 2020, after which prices jumped significantly—especially in 2022 and 2024. It’s now one of the fastest-appreciating affordable markets in the state.
North Adams – Art, Education, and Affordability
Home to the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) and the state’s smallest public college, North Adams mixes cultural cachet with affordability. The town has been the focus of multiple revitalization efforts and now draws artists, students, and remote workers.
Its housing prices remain low compared to statewide norms, but its appeal is broadening. As new development and investment continue, North Adams is positioned as one of the best-value small cities in Massachusetts.
1. Heath – 50% Home Price Increase Since 2010
- 2010: $124,864
- 2011: $121,104 (-$3,759, -3.01% from previous year)
- 2012: $103,828 (-$17,276, -14.27% from previous year)
- 2013: $105,919 (+$2,090, +2.01% from previous year)
- 2014: $104,587 (-$1,332, -1.26% from previous year)
- 2015: $114,696 (+$10,109, +9.67% from previous year)
- 2016: $115,844 (+$1,148, +1.00% from previous year)
- 2017: $117,070 (+$1,226, +1.06% from previous year)
- 2018: $122,833 (+$5,763, +4.92% from previous year)
- 2019: $124,916 (+$2,083, +1.70% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $148,433
- 2022: $159,702 (+$11,269, +7.59% from previous year)
- 2023: $163,958 (+$4,256, +2.66% from previous year)
- 2024: $174,546 (+$10,588, +6.46% from previous year)
- 2025: $186,748 (+$12,202, +6.99% from previous year)
Heath ranks as the least expensive town in Massachusetts in 2025, with a median home price of $186,748. Since 2010, prices have risen by 50%. Despite fluctuations in the early 2010s, values have climbed consistently since 2015.
Heath – The Quietest Market With Room to Grow
Located in the far northwest corner of Franklin County, Heath is a small hilltown with under 1,000 residents. Its scenic fields, rugged hills, and rural character define the local landscape. There are no stoplights, no chain stores, and only a few paved roads.
That simplicity keeps prices low—but the steady price growth shows interest is slowly increasing. For those looking for the lowest-cost entry point in Massachusetts real estate, Heath is the clear answer in 2025.
