These Are the 30 Worst Neighborhoods in Massachusetts for Retiree Homebuyers Who Need an Affordable Mortgage in 2025

For retirees living on a fixed income, these 30 neighborhoods represent the most challenging housing markets in Massachusetts, according to January 2025 Zillow Home Value Index data.

With home values ranging from $1.18 million to over $3.2 million, these locations put significant strain on limited retirement budgets.

Property taxes in these premium neighborhoods can be particularly burdensome, often running into tens of thousands of dollars annually. This ongoing expense, combined with higher maintenance costs for the typically larger and older homes in these areas, can quickly deplete retirement savings.

Many of these neighborhoods, while offering excellent amenities and historic charm, lack the age-friendly infrastructure that retirees often need. Their historic homes frequently require extensive modifications for aging in place, adding substantial costs to an already expensive housing situation.

The rapid appreciation in these areas – with some neighborhoods seeing over 100% growth in just ten years – makes them particularly risky for those with fixed incomes. Such dramatic value increases often correlate with rising property taxes and increasing costs for local services.

Most concerning for retirees, these neighborhoods have shown strong resistance to market downturns, maintaining their premium prices even in challenging economic conditions. While this might seem positive, it means there’s little opportunity for price moderation that could make them more accessible to those on fixed incomes.

Here’s the list. All data as of December 31, 2024.

1. Central Village, Brookline

Tucked into the heart of Brookline lies Central Village, a charming neighborhood where property values have shown steady appreciation over the decade. From its 2014 valuation of $802,055, the area climbed to $1,084,418 in 2019 before reaching $1,181,680 in 2024, marking a 47.3% increase over ten years and a modest 9.0% growth since 2019. Central Village sits just minutes from Coolidge Corner, forming the bustling core of Brookline’s commercial and residential life. The neighborhood’s tree-lined streets and mix of historic homes and modern apartments make it a quintessential example of Greater Boston’s inner suburban charm.

2. Bay Village, Boston

A hidden gem in downtown Boston, Bay Village presents an intriguing story of property appreciation. Home values rose from $899,125 in 2014 to $1,093,031 in 2019, ultimately reaching $1,185,661 in 2024, representing a 31.9% decade-long increase and an 8.5% five-year growth. This compact neighborhood, Boston’s smallest official district, sits like a time capsule of Federal-style row houses between the South End and Back Bay. Its narrow gas-lit streets and brick sidewalks provide a distinctive architectural connection to Boston’s past.

3. Longwood, Brookline

The real estate trajectory in Longwood showcases the enduring appeal of this medical district-adjacent neighborhood. Starting at $868,855 in 2014, values increased to $1,086,765 in 2019 before settling at $1,188,397 in 2024, demonstrating a 36.8% ten-year appreciation and 9.4% five-year growth. Longwood straddles the border between Brookline and Boston, serving as home to both medical professionals and families seeking proximity to the Longwood Medical Area. The neighborhood’s proximity to the Emerald Necklace park system provides residents with an urban oasis.

4. Newton Upper Falls, Newton

Dramatic price appreciation characterizes the story of Newton Upper Falls over the past decade. Values surged from $670,290 in 2014 to $843,476 in 2019, before making a remarkable leap to $1,206,493 in 2024, yielding an impressive 80.0% ten-year gain and 43.0% five-year growth. This historic mill village sits along the Charles River in Newton’s southeastern corner. The neighborhood retains much of its 19th-century industrial character while offering residents a blend of natural beauty with the Echo Bridge and Hemlock Gorge Reservation.

5. Davis Square, Somerville

The transformation of Davis Square is reflected in its robust property values. Starting at $706,914 in 2014, prices rose significantly to $1,024,203 in 2019, reaching $1,213,639 in 2024, marking a 71.7% decade-long climb and 18.5% five-year increase. This vibrant hub of Somerville has evolved from its working-class roots into one of Greater Boston’s most sought-after neighborhoods. The area pulses with energy from its independent theaters, eclectic dining scene, and direct Red Line access.

6. Aggasiz – Harvard North, Cambridge

Property values in this academic enclave tell a story of steady appreciation. From $790,791 in 2014, the neighborhood saw values rise to $1,063,199 in 2019, before reaching $1,249,146 in 2024, representing a 58.0% ten-year gain and 17.5% five-year growth. Nestled between Harvard and Porter Squares, this intellectual haven features beautiful Victorian architecture and tree-lined streets. The neighborhood benefits from its proximity to Harvard University while maintaining a quieter, more residential character than nearby Harvard Square.

7. Back Bay, Boston

The prestigious Back Bay continues to command premium prices in Boston’s luxury market. Values progressed from $958,445 in 2014 to $1,185,296 in 2019, ultimately reaching $1,270,272 in 2024, showing a 32.5% increase over the decade and 7.2% growth in the last five years. This iconic neighborhood, famous for its Victorian brownstones and upscale shopping along Newbury Street, represents the height of Boston’s 19th-century urban planning. The grid-pattern streets and Commonwealth Avenue Mall create one of America’s most distinguished residential districts.

8. Main Street, Concord

A relative newcomer to available data, Main Street Concord’s 2024 value of $1,276,168 speaks to its desirability. While historical comparisons aren’t available, the current values reflect the premium placed on this historic district. Located in the heart of one of America’s most significant Revolutionary War sites, Main Street captures the essence of Colonial New England with its mix of historic homes and cultural landmarks. The area seamlessly blends its rich history with modern amenities and excellent schools.

9. West Newton, Newton

West Newton’s property values showcase strong growth in this garden suburb. From $752,714 in 2014, prices rose to $940,312 in 2019, before climbing to $1,281,817 in 2024, demonstrating a 70.3% ten-year appreciation and 36.3% five-year increase. This vibrant village center, one of Newton’s largest, combines a bustling commercial district with quiet residential streets. The neighborhood’s architectural diversity and commuter rail access make it particularly attractive to Boston professionals seeking a suburban lifestyle.

10. Auburndale, Newton

Auburndale’s real estate market reflects its growing appeal to luxury buyers. Starting at $732,313 in 2014, values increased to $940,856 in 2019, before reaching $1,310,098 in 2024, marking a substantial 78.9% decade-long gain and 39.2% five-year growth. Positioned along the Charles River, this Newton village offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban convenience. The neighborhood’s mix of Victorian homes and modern amenities, combined with its proximity to both Boston and the Massachusetts Turnpike, creates an ideal suburban setting.

11. Newton Lower Falls, Newton

Newton Lower Falls has experienced a remarkable surge in property values over the past decade. Beginning at $683,510 in 2014, prices rose to $873,063 in 2019, before soaring to $1,313,163 in 2024, marking an impressive 92.1% ten-year appreciation and 50.4% five-year growth. This historic mill village sits along the Charles River, sharing a border with Wellesley. The neighborhood’s charming antique homes and industrial heritage create a unique pocket of history within the Greater Boston area.

12. Dexter, Dedham

The Dexter neighborhood illustrates the growing appeal of premium suburban locations. Values climbed from $767,535 in 2014 to $924,051 in 2019, reaching $1,330,736 in 2024, representing a robust 73.4% decade-long increase and 44.0% five-year growth. Situated in Dedham’s most prestigious section, this neighborhood is known for its grand estates and tree-lined streets. The area combines easy access to Boston with a more spacious, pastoral setting than closer-in suburbs.

13. Aspinwall Hill, Brookline

Property values on Aspinwall Hill reflect its enduring desirability among Boston’s elite neighborhoods. Starting at $864,460 in 2014, the area saw values increase to $1,141,499 in 2019, before reaching $1,335,920 in 2024, showing a 54.5% ten-year gain and 17.0% five-year appreciation. This elevated enclave rises above Washington Square, offering stunning views of the Boston skyline. The neighborhood’s winding streets and historic homes create a unique hillside community within walking distance of multiple Green Line stations.

14. Woods Hole, Falmouth

Woods Hole represents Cape Cod’s premium real estate market with impressive growth. From a 2019 value of $738,582, prices surged to $1,347,985 in 2024, marking an extraordinary 82.5% five-year increase. This world-renowned marine research community sits at the southwestern tip of Cape Cod, serving as both a scientific hub and the main ferry gateway to Martha’s Vineyard. The village combines prestigious institutions like Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution with its crucial role as a transportation link to the islands, creating a unique blend of intellectual vigor and maritime activity.

15. Newtonville, Newton

The evolution of Newtonville’s property values demonstrates its increasing attractiveness. Values rose from $840,664 in 2014 to $1,040,525 in 2019, before climbing to $1,414,944 in 2024, achieving a 68.3% ten-year appreciation and 36.0% five-year growth. This centrally located Newton village offers a perfect balance of urban amenities and suburban comfort. The neighborhood’s mix of Victorian homes, local shops, and excellent transit access makes it a favorite among Boston professionals.

16. Emerson Garden, Brookline

Emerson Garden showcases the premium placed on Brookline’s residential communities. From $944,195 in 2014, values increased to $1,241,013 in 2019, reaching $1,436,628 in 2024, reflecting a 52.2% decade-long gain and 15.8% five-year growth. Named after the beautiful park at its heart, this neighborhood offers a peaceful retreat within walking distance of Brookline Village. The area’s mix of single-family homes and well-maintained apartments attracts families seeking excellent schools and park access.

17. Chestnut Hill (Newton)

Newton’s Chestnut Hill section has seen substantial value appreciation over the years. Starting at $856,122 in 2014, prices rose to $1,117,024 in 2019, before reaching $1,521,119 in 2024, marking a 77.7% ten-year increase and 36.2% five-year growth. This prestigious area, shared between Newton, Brookline, and Boston, is known for its expansive estates and proximity to Boston College. The neighborhood’s rolling hills and reservoir views create an atmosphere of suburban grandeur minutes from downtown Boston.

18. High Street Hill, Brookline

High Street Hill’s property values reflect its status as one of Brookline’s premier locations. Values climbed from $1,014,352 in 2014 to $1,300,022 in 2019, before reaching $1,568,955 in 2024, showing a 54.7% ten-year appreciation and 20.7% five-year growth. This historic district, also known as Pill Hill, earned its nickname from the many doctors who built homes here in the 19th century. The neighborhood’s steep streets and historic mansions offer commanding views of Boston and the Emerald Necklace.

19. Newton Corner, Newton

Newton Corner has experienced significant value growth in recent years. From $948,173 in 2014, prices increased to $1,158,614 in 2019, before jumping to $1,604,079 in 2024, demonstrating a 69.2% decade-long gain and 38.4% five-year growth. This bustling village, positioned at Newton’s eastern gateway, combines urban energy with suburban comfort. The neighborhood’s location at the intersection of major transportation routes makes it particularly attractive to commuters while maintaining its residential charm.

20. West Cambridge, Cambridge

West Cambridge represents the premium end of Cambridge real estate. Values rose from $960,879 in 2014 to $1,292,188 in 2019, reaching $1,609,350 in 2024, marking a 67.5% ten-year increase and 24.5% five-year growth. This historically rich neighborhood extends from Harvard Square to the Watertown line. The area’s mix of grand 19th-century homes and tree-lined streets creates an atmosphere of academic distinction and residential tranquility.

21. Chestnut Hill (Brookline)

Brookline’s section of Chestnut Hill continues to command premium prices. Starting at $964,791 in 2014, values climbed to $1,167,159 in 2019, before reaching $1,626,361 in 2024, showing a 68.6% decade-long appreciation and 39.3% five-year growth. This affluent enclave, shared with Newton and Boston, is renowned for its luxurious shopping at The Street and Chestnut Hill Mall. The neighborhood’s combination of retail amenities and estate-style homes makes it one of Greater Boston’s most coveted addresses.

22. American Mile, Concord

American Mile emerges as one of Concord’s premier locations with a 2024 value of $1,627,855. While historical data isn’t available, the current valuation speaks to the area’s prestigious status. This historic stretch along Monument Street leads to the Old North Bridge, site of the “shot heard ’round the world.” The neighborhood combines Revolutionary War history with some of the region’s most distinguished historic homes.

23. Downtown Crossing, Boston

Downtown Crossing illustrates the evolution of Boston’s commercial heart into a residential destination. Values increased from $1,193,826 in 2014 to $1,625,724 in 2019, before reaching $1,693,530 in 2024, showing a 41.9% ten-year gain and modest 4.2% five-year growth. This central business district has transformed into a vibrant mixed-use neighborhood. The area’s combination of historic buildings and modern high-rises creates a dynamic urban environment at the heart of Boston.

24. Newton Highlands, Newton

Newton Highlands demonstrates strong value appreciation in this garden suburb. From $959,326 in 2014, prices rose to $1,190,948 in 2019, before climbing to $1,727,376 in 2024, marking an 80.1% decade-long increase and 45.0% five-year growth. This charming village center offers a perfect blend of local shops and residential streets. The neighborhood’s Victorian architecture and Green Line access create an ideal setting for urban professionals seeking a suburban lifestyle.

25. Oak Hill, Newton

Oak Hill’s property values showcase remarkable growth in recent years. Beginning at $947,128 in 2014, values increased to $1,168,530 in 2019, before reaching $1,797,435 in 2024, representing an 89.8% ten-year appreciation and 53.8% five-year growth. This largely residential neighborhood occupies Newton’s southeasternmost corner, marked by its distinctive topography. The area’s combination of conservation land and spacious lots creates a more rural atmosphere than other Newton villages, with winding roads following the natural contours of the land.

26. North Chatham, Chatham

North Chatham leads Cape Cod’s luxury market with extraordinary appreciation. Values surged from $851,096 in 2014 to $980,030 in 2019, before soaring to $1,801,629 in 2024, marking a remarkable 111.7% decade-long gain and 83.8% five-year growth. This coastal community offers spectacular views of Pleasant Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The neighborhood’s combination of waterfront estates and maritime heritage creates one of Cape Cod’s most exclusive enclaves.

27. Newton Centre, Newton

Newton Centre’s property values reflect its position as one of Newton’s premier villages. Starting at $1,021,141 in 2014, prices increased to $1,253,389 in 2019, before reaching $1,838,681 in 2024, showing an 80.1% ten-year appreciation and 46.7% five-year growth. This vibrant village center serves as Newton’s primary commercial hub. The neighborhood’s mix of upscale shops, restaurants, and beautiful residential streets makes it the heart of Garden City life.

28. Waban, Newton

Waban stands out even among Newton’s high-value villages. Values climbed from $1,096,316 in 2014 to $1,333,538 in 2019, before reaching $1,973,399 in 2024, demonstrating an 80.0% decade-long increase and 48.0% five-year growth. This picturesque village in Newton’s western section is known for its winding, tree-lined streets. The neighborhood’s large lots and distinctive architecture create one of Greater Boston’s most exclusive suburban settings.

29. North Bridge/Monument Square, Concord

North Bridge/Monument Square ranks among Greater Boston’s most valuable locations with a 2024 value of $2,075,220. While historical data isn’t available, the current valuation reflects the area’s unmatched historical significance. This neighborhood encompasses some of America’s most important Revolutionary War sites. The area’s combination of historic preservation and natural beauty creates an uniquely authentic New England environment.

30. Fisher Hill, Brookline

Fisher Hill claims the top spot among Greater Boston’s most expensive neighborhoods. From $1,919,761 in 2014, values rose to $2,265,881 in 2019, before reaching $3,215,213 in 2024, marking a 67.5% ten-year appreciation and 41.9% five-year growth. This planned residential neighborhood, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted Jr., showcases some of the region’s finest estates. The area’s rolling topography and elegant mansions create a park-like setting that has attracted Boston’s elite for over a century.