$543,322Average Value$274Average Price per Sq Ft24Homes For Sale
A rural town blends tranquil living with a convenient location
About 15 miles from Worcester, Charlton is a rural town that blends natural scenery with convenient proximity to modern-day conveniences and access to strongly rated schools. “The main reason Charlton attracts so many people is its central location,” says longtime resident Diane Dabrowski, a third-generation Charlton Realtor and top-seller in the area since 1990. “It’s within 30 minutes of good-sized cities like Worcester, which is stacked with colleges and employers. We’re also halfway between Hartford and Boston and within an hour from major airports like Logan.” While proximity to larger communities and access to stores and restaurants is a draw (“You’re only 10 to 15 minutes away from shopping,” Dabrowski says), major thoroughfares like Interstate 90 and Highway 20 lead residents back to rural landscapes and rolling woodlands of Charlton, providing a tranquil backdrop to the New England housing stock. “People that don’t know Charlton say they are amazed at the size of house lots, how quiet it is, and how easy it is to get everywhere,” Dabrowski says.
Just a short drive from Worcester, Charlton offers the perfect blend of peaceful country living and convenient access to city jobs, culture, and amenities.
Charlton’s sparkling lakes and tranquil ponds create the perfect backdrop for endless outdoor adventures and peaceful escapes.
1/2
Traditional New-England homes on larger lots
Traditional New England-style single-family homes sit on larger lots on the country roads of Charlton. “Real estate wise, we have a low tax rate and a large land area, so we have much better prices compared to Shrewsbury or Framingham,” Dabrowski says, adding that the rural nature of the town offers more space. “Plus, you don’t get the light pollution of nearby cities.” Architectural styles range from small ranch-style homes to countryside Cape Cods, though Dabrowski says generally two-story Colonial Revival homes are most common. Due to a variety in home sizes, prices typically range from the low $300,000s up to $1.7 million for estates and horse farms situated on expansive lots. Waterfront properties are also available along the reservoirs, ponds and lakes scattered around town. Parcels of land are also for sale, offering opportunities for new construction. Condos price within the $200,000s and $300,000s, and townhouses range in the $300,000s and $400,000s.
Charlton features beautiful new traditional homes, combining classic design with modern comfort in a peaceful setting.
Charlton is home to spacious lots and scenic farms, offering a blend of rural charm and open landscapes.
1/2
Shared school district and vocational programs
Dabrowski says that if Charlton’s biggest draw is its location, then its schools are the second biggest draw. The Dudley-Charlton Regional School District serves students in Charlton and earns a B overall grade from Niche. Charlton Elementary School gets a B-plus grade and serves kindergarten and first grade. Students continue to Heritage School for second through fourth grades, and Charlton Middle School for fifth through eighth grades. Both earn B scores. Shepherd Hill Regional High School also gets a B and serves kids from both Charlton and Dudley. “Shepherd Hill is always getting top scores,” Dabrowski says. “Because there are two towns involved, they can pay higher salaries and attract better teachers and staff.” Charlton is also home to Bay Path Regional Vocational Technical School. The B-minus high school provides an array of vocational programs, such as culinary arts, nursing and more. “There are multiple surrounding towns that can attend that school, and it’s like a competition to get in,” Dabrowski says. “It offers everything from automobile repair to hairdressing and carpentry. It’s amazing.”
Charlton Elementary School provides a well-rounded education and promotes academic excellence.
Empowering young minds through excellence, tradition, and innovation at Heritage School.
1/2
Outdoor recreation at Buffumville Lake Park
While green spaces surround residents in Charlton, nearby parks offer sporting facilities and recreational opportunities. Buffumville Lake Park surrounds the 200-acre Buffumville Lake, providing lakeside recreation like fishing as well as water recreation such as boating. Paddlers launch their kayaks and canoes from the boat launch, while hikers and mountain bikers take to the 7 miles of trails — some of which have steep and rocky stretches. The park also features an 18-hole disc golf course. Additionally, kids may hone their skills at the Charlton Skate and Bike Park or play at the Charlton Community Playground. Manyard Recreation Field is home to many of the town’s youth programs, which Dabrowski says are a central part of the community. “Sports for kids are huge year-round,” she says. “There are soccer leagues and little leagues, but they all create a lot of activity in the community.”
Charlton Community Park's skate park features ramps, rails, and obstacles for all skill levels, welcoming skateboards, scooters, and bikes.
Buffumville Lake Park offers a scenic escape where nature’s beauty meets endless outdoor fun.
1/2
Local eats and attractions, big-box and grocery shopping nearby
Along Highway 20, convenient fast-food stops include Dunkin’ and McDonald’s. Sturbridge Coffee Roasters serves fresh roasts and specialty coffee drinks, while Yankee Diner 2020 is a popular spot for its diner atmosphere and feel-good comfort plates, including a loaded brunch menu. For a sweet treat, locals get a cone at Dresser Hil Ice Cream Bar. “A point of interest and drive-to destination is the ice cream stand on top of the hill,” Dabrowski says. “It’s easy to get to, on top of a really high point in Charlton on Route 31. They have incredible ice cream, and it’s almost always packed.” Other attractions include Tree House Brewing Company and St Mary’s Spiritual Vineyard. For national retailers and groceries, nearby towns fulfill shopping needs. “In surrounding communities like Sturbridge, Oxford and Southbridge, you have everything from Shaw’s to Walmart and Home Depot,” Dabrowski says.
Sturbridge Coffee Roasters crafts rich, flavorful coffee that brings warmth and community to every cup.
Tree House Brewery crafts adventurous brews that spark connections and ignite the spirit of craft beer.
1/2
Celebrating Charlton's Old Home Day
Charlton celebrates its past and its community during Old Home Day, a weekend-long celebration during Labor Day Weekend. The festival features multiple smaller events along with food and craft vendors and family-friendly activities. “It’s usually spread out over 2 days, with fireworks at night and on Monday they have a road race, frog jumping contest, a parade and a car show,” Dabrowski says. “It’s a time to come together as a community and see old friends.” Though activities within the festival change year to year, they remain free of charge and open to the public.
Every Wednesday, Charlton's Farmers Market fills downtown with fresh, local goods and lively community spirit.
Each year, Charlton's Old Home Day brings the community together to honor its history with hometown pride and festive celebration.
1/2
Major thoroughfares and nearby airports
Interstate 90, or Massachusetts Turnpike, and U.S. Route 20 run east-west through Charlton, connecting residents to Worcester and into Boston. State Route 31 bisects the town from north to south. Worcester Regional Airport is the closest to Charlton at only 13 miles away, residents can take international flights at Boston Logan Airport, Bradley Airport in Connecticut or T.F. Green Airport in Rhode Island.
Just a short drive from Charlton, Worcester Airport offers easy, convenient access to regional and national travel.
Route 20 serves as Charlton’s main thoroughfare, running through town and connecting the community to the region.
1/2
Written By
Christina von Claparede-Crola
Photography Contributed By
Jack Lourenco
Video By
Tyler Newbold
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Anne Oakman,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Charlton, MA sell after 40 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Charlton, MA over the last 12 months is $525,000, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome home to this charming Cape on 1.14 acres in a nice country location. This stylish home, with first floor primary suite was recently renovated (2015) and is move in ready! Knotty pine accents, vaulted ceiling with beams, beautifully updated kitchen with upgraded cabinets and granite countertops, 2 fireplaces, gorgeous deck through slider from dining room, hardwood floors, and so much more.
OPEN HOUSE AUGUST 2nd 11-1pm. Offer deadline - highest and best due August 5th 2:00pm. Welcome to 84 Southbridge Road, a thoughtfully updated Cape located in the desirable town of Charlton, offering the perfect blend of modern updates, flexible living space, and New England charm. The inviting living room features beautiful hardwood flooring, recessed lighting, a large picture window, and a
To Be Built ~ Model Home Available to Preview*Special Incentive from the Builder who is offering 5% financing or Rent to Buy option, is now available for a limited time (call agent for more details)*New Construction on a beautiful lot on lovely country road*Built by one of the area's top builders, this home offers exceptional quality and attention to detail*The kitchen & bathrooms feature custom
BACK ON THE MARKET ON WHAT WAS SUPPOSE TO BE CLOSING DAY. FEEL LIKE YOU ARE ON VACATION ALL YEAR WITH LAKEFRONT LIVING IN THIS GLEN ECHO WATERFRONT HOME! Beautiful beach and large lawn area ready for year-round fun. Enter into your lakefront retreat with an updated kitchen, dining area, living room with fieldstone propane fireplace, 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms and a spacious Brady sunroom with
Magnificent, Like-New home, in a quiet, cul-de-sac neighborhood overlooking Prindle Pond with a spectacular view of the horizon in this very desirable double-lot. You will feel like a King & Queen on Top of The Hill, enjoying the breathtaking sunsets right from your living room. The home encompasses a huge open-concept kitchen & living room, four bedrooms, two of which are HUGE on the 2nd floor,
Nestled in a family-friendly neighborhood, where kids can still safely ride bikes and play freely, this elegant, stately designed Colonial offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and modern convenience. Set proudly as a true “mansion on the hill,” this exceptional home delivers privacy, serenity, and room to grow.The open-concept main level is highlighted by soaring cathedral ceilings,
Welcome to this beautifully maintained condo offering the perfect combination of space, comfort, and affordability in a desirable location! The main level features a bright living room, dining area, spacious kitchen, full bath with washer and dryer, and a convenient first-floor bedroom. Step outside to your private deck overlooking the backyard, ideal for relaxing or entertaining. Stay
Beautiful 2-acre lot abutting the Golf Course is the perfect place to custom build your dream home! This proposed plan has a first-floor primary bedroom and 3 additional bedrooms on the second floor. 2 story foyer and vaulted fireplaced great room. Upgraded allowances including hardwood throughout the first floor, stairs and upstairs hall. Build this plan, or a custom design can be discussed and
One of 9 ANR lots newly approved on a mid-state rail trail country road. Lot 9 has a stream crossing the lower left corner leaving 2.6 acres of continuous upland to build on. Pole 21 to the right of the brook is close to the right lot lone. There are 6 other lots listed in MLS if you need more land. Survey with pole locations and soil test results that were witnessed and approved by the Board of
Perched on nearly 8 private acres with breathtaking panoramic views, this extraordinary custom-built estate showcases timeless Southwestern architecture and exceptional craftsmanship throughout. Hand-hewn log beams, rich custom woodwork, a stucco exterior, terracotta roof, and dramatic dark wood doors create a warm, sophisticated atmosphere. Designed to capture stunning views from nearly every
Welcome home to this charming Cape on 1.14 acres in a nice country location. This stylish home, with first floor primary suite was recently renovated (2015) and is move in ready! Knotty pine accents, vaulted ceiling with beams, beautifully updated kitchen with upgraded cabinets and granite countertops, 2 fireplaces, gorgeous deck through slider from dining room, hardwood floors, and so much more.
Charming single family ranch in desirable Cranberry Meadow lake neighborhood. Nice views of the lake offering recreational boating. Interior has modern open floor plan. This home has been completely remodeled down to the studs. That means brand new electrical panel and wiring, new plumbing, new interior walls (with new spray-on insulation in walls, very efficient and money saving). New floors,
Move right into this beautifully renovated 4-bedroom, 2-bath home offers the look and feel of brand-new construction without the wait. Step inside to a bright, open-concept floor plan featuring gorgeous hardwood floors, a spacious living area, and a stunning kitchen with upgraded cabinetry, quartz countertops, sleek finishes, and an oversized center island designed for gathering and entertaining.
OPEN HOUSE AUGUST 2nd 11-1pm. Offer deadline - highest and best due August 5th 2:00pm. Welcome to 84 Southbridge Road, a thoughtfully updated Cape located in the desirable town of Charlton, offering the perfect blend of modern updates, flexible living space, and New England charm. The inviting living room features beautiful hardwood flooring, recessed lighting, a large picture window, and a
Welcome home to this charming classic Colonial nestled in one of Charlton's most sought-after neighborhoods. Offering 5 bedrooms, including a convenient first-floor bedroom, plus a dedicated first-floor office, this home provides flexibility for today's lifestyle. The stunning living room features cathedral ceilings and a cozy pellet stove, creating a warm and inviting gathering space. A grand
Adorable and affordable - Spacious, 2-3 Bedroom – depending on setup, 1 Bath, SECOND FLOOR apartment; Recently updated with new flooring, kitchen cabinets, appliances, and fresh paint. First, last and deposit required prior to move in. 2 off street parking spots. Conveniently located on Route 20 with easy access to 290, 395 and MassPike; Available now. No smoking;
Welcome to the Lake! Located in peaceful Dudley MA, right off major highways (Pike / 395) you will find this retreat easily accessible and remote at the same time. My wife and I were fortunate to spend summers at the lake with our family so we decided to buy and fix this cottage up to give our family that same beautiful experience. While called a pond, Pierpont Meadow is over a mile long and wide
Experience loft-style living in this approximately 650 sq. ft. apartment at 191 City Depot Rd, Charlton, MA. Located in a mixed-use building, this unique rental features an open-concept floor plan with cathedral ceilings, skylights, oversized windows, and abundant natural light. The main level includes a spacious living room, dining area, kitchen, and full bath. A loft bedroom overlooks the
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
