Let’s discover some of the best places to live and vacation along the Massachusetts and Rhode Island coasts.
Chatham, MA
Home to stunning beaches and numerous museums, Chatham is a hotspot for those who appreciate culture, history, and the great outdoors. The Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge is a popular destination for watching migratory birds, taking guided trail hikes, and admiring Monomoy’s finest vistas. Downtown Chatham exudes charm with its quaint shops, seafood restaurants, and bustling fishing pier.
Chatham’s real estate scene is moderately competitive. In May, Redfin reported the median home sale price at just over $1 million, reflecting a 3.3% year-over-year increase. High-demand properties often attract multiple offers and leave the market within about ten days.
Barrington, RI
Barrington is an exceptional community for those who enjoy being outdoors. Among the city’s finest attractions are biking trails, wildlife refuges, and the scenic Latham Park with panoramic coastal views. The Rhode Island Country Club is a hotspot for tennis, golfing, and swimming, while Barrington Beach remains popular among locals and visitors. Barrington’s pleasant downtown area, with its boutique shops and cozy cafes, adds to the town’s appeal.
The Barrington real estate market is very competitive, with May’s median home sale price at $1.015 million, reflecting a 59.2% year-over-year increase, and 47.1% of residences purchased above the asking rate. The average home enters pending status in approximately 17 days, with highly sought-after properties sold in about five days.
Provincetown, MA
Nestled at the northern tip of Cape Cod, Provincetown boasts picturesque beaches and scenic walking trails near historic lighthouses. In the heart of its vibrant downtown, Commercial Street is a popular destination for art galleries, delightful eateries, and sightseeing on MacMillan Pier. Guided whale-watching tours are also a hit among both visitors and locals.
The real estate market in Provincetown is somewhat competitive, with 12.5% of homes purchased above the asking rate. While the median sale price is $1.08 million as of May, 12.1% of homes have seen price drops. The average home enters pending status within 28 days, but highly sought-after homes are often scooped up within about 15 days.
South Kingstown, RI
Scenic public beaches, botanical gardens, and historic landmarks make South Kingstown highly desirable. Locals and visitors alike can indulge in delectable beverages at breweries and distilleries, while glass-blowing exhibits and diverse cuisine options add to the town’s unique appeal. The dynamic downtown area, filled with local shops and fine dining options, is a hub of activity and community events.
Real estate in South Kingstown is moderately competitive, with the median home sale price at $707,500 as of May, according to Redfin. Properties are typically sold within about 28 days, but highly sought-after homes can enter pending status in roughly nine days.
Marblehead, MA
Rich in historical and cultural attractions, Marblehead is a delightful community for nature enthusiasts. Gerry Island and Crowninshield Island feature the best of New England’s coastal panoramas, viewable along dry channel hikes or scenic boat rides. Visitors can enjoy Marblehead’s guided cruises, fishing charters, and luxurious spas. The picturesque downtown area, with its charming streets and historic buildings, is perfect for exploring unique shops and savoring fine dining.
Real estate in Marblehead is very competitive, as reflected by May’s 5.5% year-over-year increase in home costs. According to Redfin, the median sale price for a home is $899,000, with 52.2% sold above the initial asking rate.
