$944,356Average Value$495Average Price per Sq Ft18Homes For Sale
Historic homes, a bustling Main Street and highly rated schools north of Boston
Less than 10 miles north of Boston, Melrose is a small city with a suburban feel, known for its nearby hospital, parks, ponds and a thriving local business community on Main Street. “Melrose is a very walkable community with a lot of open space and fast access to Boston by both car and train,” says Lauren Grymek, chief of staff to the office of Mayor Jennifer Grigoraitis. The city has a long history, with buildings and businesses that date back over a century. MelroseWakefield Hospital has operated for over 100 years and is the site of the world’s first laser surgery. The hospital is a major employer in an area where healthcare, finance and professional and technical services are the most popular fields. Residential homes are distinguished by their historic Victorian and colonial-inspired architecture. Families who live here benefit from access to the highly rated Melrose School District. The Melrose Symphony Orchestra was founded in 1918 and is the oldest all-volunteer orchestra in the nation. The city's nearby golf courses, parks and conservation areas make it popular among those who work in Boston but prefer a quiet life next to nature.
Fully restored Queen Anne Victorian houses can cost around $2.1 million here in Melrose.
The old stone tunnel is a hidden gem in Melrose.
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Historic shopping districts, big-box retailers and outlet malls
Main Street in Melrose comprises classic red brick buildings with a selection of modern shops and restaurants. “It's rumored that Main Street Melrose was the model for Main Street at Disney World. You won't want to miss locally famous Turner's Fish Market or our very own locally owned, Buckalew's General Store offering specialty gifts, liquor and local craft beer,” says Bill Butler, Realtor with Leading Edge Realty. Locally owned businesses are the norm around here, and Melrose’s downtown was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982, with decorative lampposts and Christmas lights on every tree during the holidays. “We’ve got a variety of restaurants and small businesses, specialty stores and pop-up shops during the holiday season,” Grymek says. “In the last year, Melrose just opened its first brewery.” Downtown restaurants include pastry shops, sushi restaurants, Mexican cantinas and classic American diners. Shaw’s is just 2 miles up the road and the Redstone Shopping Center is located in nearby Stoneham. Redstone is an open-air shopping complex with major retailers like Target and Marshalls.
Molly's Bookstore in Melrose has a great selection of books across various genres.
Sit at the bar next to the lobstar tank at Turner's Seafood Grill & Market in Melrose.
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Fairs, festivals and community events in Melrose
The Melrose Chamber of Commerce sponsors several highly anticipated events throughout the year. The Summer Stroll is held each July in downtown Melrose. Main and Essex Streets are shut down to allow pedestrians to wander and discover the unique shops and eateries making up the town’s original shopping district. The annual Victorian Fair is a one-day festival in September that celebrates Melrose’s Victorian homes and history with live music and carnival rides. “Home for the Holidays is a city favorite especially for those with little kiddos,” Butler says. The weekend begins with a tree lighting at City Hall, followed by a parade down Main Street and a visit from Santa Claus. Also on the National Register of Historic Places is the Beebe Estate, which dates to around 1828 and was restored in the mid-1990s. “The Beebe Estate is a historical gem of Melrose, once owned by the Beebe family, and currently is one of the city's arts and events centers. Local artists show their work here on Saturdays, but it's also open to the public for private rentals,” Butler says. “Don't miss the Biergartens on the front lawn in the Summer and Fall open to the public as well!”
Turn-of-the-century homes with Victorian and colonial architecture
Neighborhoods are known for their Victorian architecture and tree-lined streets. Many homes were built before the 1940s and have historic elements and classic charm. “A former Summertime getaway for Bostonians during the turn of the century, Melrose is laden with exquisite Victorian architecture prevalent in those times,” Butler says. Though Melrose is less than 5 square miles in total area, the city has many residential communities, as well as hundreds of condo units and townhouses. The median price for a single-family home in Melrose is about $860,000, which is higher than in most surrounding areas except for Winchester. Condos and townhouses often range in value between $250,000 and $600,000, but there are a few million-dollar townhouse options.
Rows of Cape Cod homes greet neighborhoods in Melrose.
Large Queen Ann architecture is frequently seen in Melrose.
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Melrose's greenbelt of natural areas, golf courses, parks and ponds
Melrose is home to a figurative greenbelt of golf courses, conservation land, parks, trails and ponds. This is because almost a third of the area has undeveloped land, leading to a natural, quiet atmosphere for residents who like getting out of Boston. Middlesex Fells Reservation has over 100 miles of mixed-use trails for all skill levels, and Ell Pond has a boat launch, fishing access, and several parks with sports courts, a community pool and the Melrose Dog Park. Golfers can check out Bellevue Golf Club, Mount Hood Golf Course or Cedar Glen Golf Course to the north. Several small neighborhood parks scattered throughout residential areas have playgrounds, benches and sports courts. Pine Banks Park is filled with hundreds of towering pines and cedars, a one-acre pond and an incredible variety of wildlife. There are also multiple athletic fields, a playground and a dog park.
Mount Hood Golf is a great way to spend the day in Melrose.
Relax on the Bone shape benches while Fideo plays at the Melrose Dog Park.
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Highly Rated Melrose Public School District programs and nearby universities
For families looking to live in Melrose, it’s important to note the area’s highly rated schools and academic programs. Melrose Public Schools is graded an overall A-minus on Niche. The district has five elementary schools, four featuring A and A-minus ratings; Hoover Elementary has a B-plus. There's also the recently built Melrose Veterans’ Memorial Middle School and Melrose High School, which are both rated an A-minus. The high school has an impressive music program and offers exchange options and five world language courses. Melrose is also only a few miles from Tufts University, Harvard and Northeastern University.
Lincoln Elementary School is one of the 5 elementary schools in Melrose.
Melrose Middle School is neighbor to the High School on Lynn Fells Parkway.
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Commuter buses, rail lines and highways to downtown Boston
Those who work in Boston can take the T Orange Line to reach downtown within around 20 minutes, depending on delays. Drivers have fast access to Interstate 93 and Route 1 and can reach the city in about the same amount of time. However, Route 1 has tolls, and both options can become congested by traffic. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority operates the city’s public transit options. There are also three fixed bus routes: 131, 132 and 137. The Council on Aging operates a curb-to-curb minibus service for Melrose residents aged 60 and over.
Environmental factors and crime
According to the FBI Crime Data Explorer, in 2023, Melrose’s violent crime and property crime rates were well below the state and national medians. Because of its ponds and waterways in undeveloped natural areas, several places in Melrose can experience flooding or water overflow during times of heavy rain. Winds off nearby Massachusetts Bay can cause damage to homes and trees in extreme cases.
Written By
Shelby Sullivan
Photography Contributed By
Amanda Beattie
Video By
Maurice Boone
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Alexander Koziakov,
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 Melrose, MA sell after 16 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Melrose, MA over the last 12 months is $860,000, up 6% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
As close as it gets to a prime commuter location in Melrose! This well-maintained 2-bedroom, 1-bath first-floor condo is steps from the Wyoming Hill Commuter Rail and within one mile of the Orange Line—reach Boston’s North Station in ~20 minutes. Featuring high ceilings, generous closets, and approximately 980 sq ft of living space. The eat-in kitchen offers stainless steel appliances, granite
EXCEPTIONAL NEW CONSTRUCTION.This 5BR, 4.5BA Colonial pairs refined contemporary design with subtle zen influences in a prime Melrose location near Main St, Rte 1 & Orange Line access.Thoughtfully laid out with every square foot maximized.The showpiece kitchen features a 36” Bosch induction range, jumbo white quartz island, custom wet bar with beverage center, generous dining area and sliders to
EXCEPTIONAL NEW CONSTRUCTION - 5BR - 4.5BA - COLONIAL. Styled in a modern palette, this house makes a statement in all the right ways. Gorgeous tree top view overlooking Melrose all the way to the Boston skyline! Welcome home to premium craftsmanship, high efficiency systems, and upgrades throughout. 400 AMP electric service. Wired for E-car charging inside your 3 bay - epoxy coat finished -
Discover this stunning to be built new-construction home featuring 5 bedrooms and 3.5 baths, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Boston skyline. Set on an expansive ~15,000 sq. ft. double lot, the plans offer exceptional space, privacy, and beauty. Thoughtfully placed windows throughout the home capture incredible skyline vistas and fill the interior with natural light. The generous side
Stephanie and Dina GroupBarrett Sotheby's International Realty
As close as it gets to a prime commuter location in Melrose! This well-maintained 2-bedroom, 1-bath first-floor condo is steps from the Wyoming Hill Commuter Rail and within one mile of the Orange Line—reach Boston’s North Station in ~20 minutes. Featuring high ceilings, generous closets, and approximately 980 sq ft of living space. The eat-in kitchen offers stainless steel appliances, granite
Full survey and wetland delineation available! Live your dream and imagine the potential! 1 Mill Rd is a 3 1/2 acre parcel that is looking for its next owner to give it new life. Located in a private area that feels more like New Hampshire than Melrose this property could be the cornerstone of a single grand estate or do your own due diligence on alternate uses.
HUGE BANG FOR YOUR BUCK AND THE Best Priced Home in Melrose! Opportunity is knocking before the holidays! This Expansive 7BR 3 Full 2.5 Half Bath home features new siding, gutters, and a 50-year warranty roof, plus 48 solar panels for high energy efficiency. Enjoy year-round comfort with a 5-head mini split heat pump system and radiant heated basement floors. The outdoor oasis is a dream with
Ideally located in desirable Melrose Towers, this sun-filled 2-bed,2-bath corner unit offers exceptional convenience and lifestyle amenities. Enjoy easy access to Whole Foods Plaza, bus and train service, major commuting routes, Ell Pond, and Melrose’s vibrant downtown shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The thoughtfully designed layout features a combined living and dining area that
Welcome to Melrose! This end unit on the 5Th floor offers the perfect blend of convenience, functionality, ideal for first-time buyers, down-sizers, or investors looking to break into this highly sought-after market. The unit is being sold "As Is" Just add your finishing touches .5th floor residents enjoy exclusive access to a common balcony with sweeping views, perfect for relaxing or
Introducing Melrose’s newest luxury new construction single-family home! This stunning modern colonial, set against striking glacial rock, offers over 4700 square feet of beautifully crafted living space — perfect for family living and entertaining alike. The main level welcomes you with a grand foyer, private office, and formal dining room, leading to an open-concept chef’s kitchen with walk-in
EXCEPTIONAL NEW CONSTRUCTION.This 5BR, 4.5BA Colonial pairs refined contemporary design with subtle zen influences in a prime Melrose location near Main St, Rte 1 & Orange Line access.Thoughtfully laid out with every square foot maximized.The showpiece kitchen features a 36” Bosch induction range, jumbo white quartz island, custom wet bar with beverage center, generous dining area and sliders to
BACK ON MARKET AS BUYER FINANCING FELL THROUGH. MOTIVATED SELLER! Don’t miss this amazing opportunity to own a charming single-family home tucked away on a peaceful street in Melrose’s desirable Highlands neighborhood! Enjoy ultimate urban convenience, just a stone’s throw from the commuter rail and a short stroll to the vibrant downtown shops, cozy cafés, local restaurants, and all three
This luxury new build delivers nearly 4,900 sq. ft. across four levels in an unbeatable Melrose location—just minutes from downtown shops, Starbucks, Whole Foods, cafés, parks, and top restaurants. A two-car garage opens into a finished lower level complete with a full bath and an ideal space for a theater, gym, or bonus room. The main floor showcases an open-concept chef’s kitchen outfitted with
EXCEPTIONAL NEW CONSTRUCTION - 5BR - 4.5BA - COLONIAL. Styled in a modern palette, this house makes a statement in all the right ways. Gorgeous tree top view overlooking Melrose all the way to the Boston skyline! Welcome home to premium craftsmanship, high efficiency systems, and upgrades throughout. 400 AMP electric service. Wired for E-car charging inside your 3 bay - epoxy coat finished -
One of the largest one bedroom units at Melrose Towers with 909 square feet all on one floor. This unit is on the first floor so you can access it from the lobby stairs without using the elevator. There are two access doors on either side of the building at ground level that allow entry without any stairs and go straight to the elevator. This unit was renovated from original 7-8 years ago with
Conveniently located near public transportation, shops, and schools. Bright and sunny 2-bedroom, 1-bath apartment on the first floor of a two-family building, featuring a formal dining room and spacious living room. Coin-operated washer and dryer are available in the basement. Two car tandem parking spaces included. The unit is in great condition and move-in ready.
Welcome to Towne Estates in Melrose, MA! Our well-maintained community offers one- and two-bedroom apartments all including a full-size kitchen with refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, garbage disposal and additional storage. Heat, hot water, and gas for cooking are all included in your rent. Take advantage of the onsite laundry facilities. clubhouse, basketball court, playground, and bike storage.
Beautifully renovated 1-Bedroom Apartment in a prime location! The open-concept seamlessly combines the dining and living areas, leading out to a spacious private balcony where you can enjoy your morning coffee. The kitchen has a brand new Frigidaire appliances and a Stonemark quartz countertops. The complex offers indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis and basketball courts, sauna etc. It is
Conveniently located just minutes from Boston. Emerson Arms offers two-bedroom apartments styled with care. Our floor plans feature modern design, shaker cabinets, stone countertops, ceramic tile and stainless-steel appliances. Each apartment includes its own storage unit, and each building has its own laundry room. Call or email to schedule your tour today. Virtual appointments are available.
Rent this stunning 2014-built single-family 2000' home with 4 good-sized bedrooms (including 1 on first floor), 3 baths, open kitchen/dining/living layout, granite counters, stainless steel appliances, hardwood floors, central AC/heating (3 zones), in-unit LG smart washer/dryer, and master suite with walk-in closet. Step out to a private backyard patio, shed for storage, and 2-3 off-street
Office hours are by appointment only. Contact our leasing team today. The beauty of nature, the excitement of the city - all within close proximity. At The Washingtons, we've designed every space to meet your needs. Head outside to our rooftop deck, fire-pits, grilling stations, and courtyards or head on in to one of our state-of-the-art fitness centers or to our resident lounge for billiards and
This inviting two-bedroom apartment offers an ideal living space for families, roommates, or couples in the thriving Melrose Highlands neighborhood. Both bedrooms are generously sized and positioned on opposite sides of the unit, providing excellent privacy and separation. Located on a peaceful street in one of the town's most dynamic and fastest-growing areas, you'll enjoy easy access to an
Really cool apartment with unique layout and tons of space. Fresh paint, shining hardwood floors, many closets and storage nooks, extra large dining area, and off street parking included! Both bedroom has HUGE closets. On a tree lined street in Melrose with easy access to the commuter rail and a vibrant town center + the Middlesex Fells and 93 are close by. Heat and hot water is included. Coin op
This spacious and newly updated, this 1 bedroom apartment offers a fresh and modern feel throughout. Enjoy a sun filled and beautifully renovated kitchen, a newly remodeled bathroom, and brand-new flooring in every room. The unit includes convenient basement laundry, bonus storage space, and off-street parking. Ideally located close to Routes 93 and 95, as well as the commuter rail. Perfect for
Fast & Easy online application, approval, and leasing.One and two-bedroom apartments Downtown Melrose locationAdjacent to the commuter rail train for a quick 15-min ride into North Station. Washer and dryer in every apartmentCovered parking availablePet friendly Open concept floor-plans with high ceilingsWalk-in closets, master baths and study rooms
Well maintained, fully furnished 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home in a desirable location. The spacious living room flows seamlessly into the dining area and features a cozy fireplace. The kitchen offers a center island and stainless steel appliances, combining style and functionality. Enjoy outdoor living on the beautiful deck, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Washer and dryer are conveniently
Melrose center, 2 bedroom apartment or 1 bed with office space ! Located near the commuter rail. The unit was previously used as a 2 bedroom! Common washer & dryer at the property and off street parking available for purchase. Pets negotiable. Available 3/1 move-in! Virtual tour available. Don't miss out this unit and schedule your showing today
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