What Type of Home Will Fit My Budget?

Navigating the Boston Market Without Blowing the Bank

If you’ve ever looked at Boston real estate listings while clutching your morning coffee, only to do a double take and whisper a silent, "How much for that?!" — welcome to the club. Boston’s cost of living is undeniably steep, and housing prices can be, well, sobering. But don’t panic. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, upsizing, or trying to figure out if you can afford a home with both a dishwasher and a driveway, this post will help you understand where your budget fits in Boston and beyond.

Setting Expectations: Boston vs. the 'Burbs

Let’s start with the elephant in the room: the budget. With median single-family home prices in Boston hovering around $800,000 (and significantly more in central neighborhoods), many buyers quickly turn their gaze toward the surrounding suburbs.

That doesn't mean you have to abandon Boston completely. Neighborhoods like West Roxbury and Roslindale still offer some of the charm, green space, and accessibility without the jaw-dropping prices of Back Bay or Beacon Hill.

Here’s a breakdown of what your dollar might buy in these more affordable locales:

West Roxbury: Suburban Vibes in the City

• Median Home Price: ~$750,000
• Home Type: Single-family homes, classic colonials, and newer townhomes
• Why It Works: Quiet, family-friendly, and full of parks. Plus, commuter rail access makes downtown commutes manageable.

If you're dreaming of a backyard and a finished basement, West Roxbury might just check your boxes.

Roslindale: A Hidden Gem with Personality

• Median Home Price: ~$700,000
• Home Type: Multi-family homes, renovated condos, and classic triple-deckers
• Why It Works: A vibrant main square, great community events, and a mix of older and newer properties.

Perfect for buyers looking to get creative with a multi-family home or find something move-in ready with character.

Southwest Suburbs: More Home, More Yard, Still Commutable

If your budget is under $700,000 or you’re craving more space, Boston’s southwest suburbs are calling your name.

Walpole

• Median Home Price: ~$650,000
• Highlights: Strong schools, community feel, and easy access to I-95 and the commuter rail.
• Home Style: Mix of updated ranches, capes, and newer construction.

Dedham

• Median Home Price: ~$680,000
• Highlights: Legacy Place shopping, historical homes, and Charles River green space.
• Home Style: Antique colonials, cape-style homes, and newer developments.

Norwood

• Median Home Price: ~$600,000
• Highlights: Affordable entry point, thriving downtown, and public transportation.
• Home Style: Mid-century homes, bungalows, and split-levels.

Westwood

• Median Home Price: ~$900,000
• Highlights: Top-tier schools and lush neighborhoods.
• Home Style: Higher-end single families, colonials, and custom homes.

Norfolk

• Median Home Price: ~$625,000
• Highlights: Wooded lots, quiet living, and a slower pace.
• Home Style: Ranches and contemporary colonials.

Wrentham

• Median Home Price: ~$600,000
• Highlights: Outlet shopping, open space, and excellent commuter access.
• Home Style: Mix of older homes and newer subdivisions.

Medfield

• Median Home Price: ~$850,000
• Highlights: Top-rated schools and scenic surroundings.
• Home Style: Spacious colonials and elegant new construction.

Tips for Matching Your Budget to the Right Location

1. Prioritize Needs vs. Wants: Do you really need four bedrooms, or will three with a home office do?
2. Factor in Commute & Transit Access: Some suburbs have direct commuter rail access — a game changer.
3. Consider Property Taxes: A lower home price in one town might come with higher taxes than a neighboring one.
4. Don’t Skip Pre-Approval: Knowing your real budget makes searching much less stressful.
5. Explore Multi-Family or Condo Options: Especially in Roslindale or Norwood, this can open doors.

How to Start Your Search Without Losing Your Mind

• Use tools like Realtor.com or Redfin with filters set to your max budget.
• Visit open houses to get a feel for what different price points look like.
• Partner with a real estate professional (hi, I’m Jennifer) who understands the nuances of each town.
• Be ready to compromise on cosmetic fixes in exchange for good bones and location.

Bottom Line: You Can Still Find a Home That Fits — Even Here

The Greater Boston market is competitive, but with the right strategy (and some neighborhood know-how), you can absolutely find a home that fits your budget and lifestyle.

Need help figuring out where you fit? Let’s chat.