$564,348Average Value$349Average Price per Sq Ft23Homes For Sale
An artsy city alongside the Connecticut River
The county seat of Hampshire County, Northampton is a small city of about 29,000 people known for its thriving art scene and variety of outdoor spaces. Near downtown, Smith College is part of the Five College Consortium with Amherst College, Hampshire College, Mount Holyoke College and the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. “The combination of natural beauty and the educational and cultural institutions are quite appealing to people who want more space but still want the concerts and lectures and art exhibits,” says Julie Held, an associate broker with Delap Real Estate who’s lived in the area for over 30 years. She adds that while the city has a lot to do, it’s not too packed. “People are nicer here because you’re not bumping into each other all the time,” Held says. “You don’t have to wait in line to get into a concert or struggle to find a parking space.” Northampton has also long been known for its strong LGBTQ+ culture, and it hosts the county’s pride celebration every summer. “There’s a big emphasis on trans health care, so there’s a big population of trans folks here,” Held says.
Northampton is located near the Berkshire Mountains which brings gorgeous scenery and weather.
Smith College is a private women's liberal arts college in Northampton.
The Northampton Public Library has a section dedicated to a rotating gallery of local artists.
Northampton has a strong LGBTQ pride engrained in its culture and seen in the city's art.
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Local restaurants and boutiques downtown
Downtown Northampton has a collection of eateries and businesses in renovated historic buildings. "Most of the shops are locally owned; the owner will be behind the counter serving you. We have very few chain stores, especially downtown," says Mark Carmien, a Realtor with Brick & Mortar who's lived in the area for decades. Residents pop into bakeries, sit-down restaurants and breweries or shop for apparel, books and home goods at boutiques. "Between the art galleries and restaurant scene, the town stays alive past 5:00 p.m. You'll see people out during any night of the week," Carmien says. Main Street in the city’s Florence village has more shopping plazas with small businesses and restaurants. The city has a couple of natural food stores, as well as supermarkets like Stop & Shop and Aldi.
Hungry Ghost Bread in Northampton is a casual bakery with a rotating selection of fresh bread.
Herrell's Ice Cream & Bakery in Northampton makes and sells their ice cream and pastries.
There's a strong cafe culture in Northampton with different cafes around every corner.
Folks in Northampton can shop at big box stores like Aldi, located on King Street.
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Art shows, galleries and concerts
Many are drawn to the area because of Northampton’s active art scene. “Artists have studios in old mill buildings all over town. Right now, I’m taking a ceramics class in one of them downtown,” Held says. On the second Friday of every month, folks check out local and visiting artists’ galleries at downtown studios during the Arts Night Out event. Daily, people can wander around the exhibits at the Smith College Museum of Art, which always has free admission. During the summer, the city blocks off Strong Avenue for a summer-long block party; live bands play in the evening from Wednesday through Sunday as locals shop and dine. Downtown concert venues host performances throughout the year. “We’re a well-known spot in the folk and American roots music scene,” Carmien says. “A lot of bigger artists will stop in to test out material at small venues since we’re about halfway between New York and Boston."
Art studios, galleries and supply stores dot the streets of Northampton.
The Smith College Museum of Art in Northampton boasts a diverse collection spanning centuries and styles.
Northampton residents can visit R. Michelson Galleries featuring nationally and regionally prominent artists.
The Calvin Theatre in Northampton puts on theatrical plays and hosts live music events.
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Condos and Colonial Revivals around Northampton
Classic homes dominate the landscape in Northampton, mainly those built from the late 18th century to the early 19th century. There are many older homes, Held says, “and some developments of newer homes from the 1950s to current. And then some beautiful, one-of-a-kind high-end houses tucked here and there.” Colonial Revivals and Cape Cods make up much of the inventory, while homes further from downtown tend to be ranch-style properties and new Colonial Revivals. Condo buildings are also around the downtown area and Florence neighborhood. Held adds that housing has gotten more expensive as more people moved to the area during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Currently, the median listing price is $550,000, which is higher than the national median of $430,000 but lower than the Massachusetts median of $700,000.
A colonial revival style home in Northampton has a green shutters, yellow portico and beige clapboard siding.
The average home value in Northampton is $544,944, which is $200,000 lower than the Massachusetts average.
There are several condominium communities in Northampton, each offering its own unique style and amenities.
A round house in Northampton is a unique residential form with reputed therapeutic qualities.
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A well-rated school district and five colleges nearby
Children are zoned to the Northampton Public School district, which serves about 2,500 students across four elementary schools, one middle school and one high school. Niche rates the district an A-minus, and the town’s only public high school scores an A rating. Smith College, a private women’s college that’s part of the Five College Consortium, is also in Northampton. The college has about 2,500 students, but the consortium has 31,000 students across five campuses.
Jackson Street Elementary School in Northampton has about 305 students in grades K-5.
Tri-County Schools, near Northampton is a private elementary, middle and high school.
Northampton High School is a public high school with over 1,300 students.
Smith College in Northampton, a private women's college borders the downtown streets.
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Greenways, gardens and river frontage in Northampton
Outdoor recreation is a focal point in Northampton. “People moving here are very outdoorsy. Hiking, long-distance biking, swimming, you name it. They want to get into nature while still having town amenities,” Held says. Throughout the town are parks with playgrounds and blooming gardens, along with greenways for long runs or bike rides. Elwell State Park, which is on the banks of the Connecticut River, has waterfront trails with places to picnic, fish and launch boats onto the river.
The Connecticut River graces the Eastern boundary of Northampton.
The Norwottuck Rail Trail's 10.0-mile point-to-point trail in Northampton is perfecting for biking and running.
The Northampton Dog Park offers a fenced-in area and trails where dogs can run.
The Agnes Fox Playground in Northampton has swings, play set and large open field.
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Buses, trains and interstates take locals out of the city
The city has some walkable areas, particularly around downtown Northampton and the village of Florence, but most of the area is car-dependent. Buses operated by the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority also traverse the town, headed to nearby towns like Easthampton, Amherst and Holyoke. Interstate 91 slices through the eastern section of the city, taking drivers 20 miles south to Springfield. The highway quickly links with Interstate 90, which heads about 100 miles east to Boston. Downtown Northampton has a train station with Amtrak trains that go throughout Pioneer Valley, and nearby, there’s a municipal airport with a flight school. The closest major airport is Bradley International Airport, located 40 miles south in Windsor Locks, Connecticut.
The schools of the Five College Consortium are major employers in the area, as are medical facilities. Transhealth is a clinic that offers gender-affirming health care in Northampton, while Cooley Dickinson Hospital has a wider range of medical services. Some commuters with hybrid schedules make the trek to Boston a couple of days a week.
Average crime rates and cold winters
According to FBI statistics, violent crime rates in Northampton are on par with the national average, while property crime rates trend lower than the national average. Northampton experiences all four seasons, including warm summers and cold winters, when snow and ice storms are common.
Written By
Amanda Boivin
Photography Contributed By
Matt Barrett
Video By
Jackson Nacey
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Dianne Schmidt,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Northampton, MA sell after 31 days on the market compared to the national average of 52 days. The median sale price for homes in Northampton, MA over the last 12 months is $481,500, up 6% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Nicely renovated 3BR 1.5BA updated ranch on nearly 1/2 acre on desirable Florence street! Current owners moved here in June; circumstances changed & they are relocating. Generously sized, the open living/dining/kitchen floor plan has picture windows overlooking the spacious back yard, & a fireplace in the living area. Modern kitchen w/ quartz countertops, all new SS appliances, new cabinets, an
Nestled on a quiet dead-end street, 48 Dunphy Dr in Northampton offers a great opportunity to establish roots in a peaceful neighborhood, just minutes to downtown Northampton and Easthampton. With 1680 sq. ft of light filled living space (not including the finished portion of the basement), there are 4 bedrooms, 2 down and 2 up, an eat-in-kitchen and a good sized living room. The property has a
Fantastic in-town location is where you'll find this contemporary condominium. Sweeping high ceilings with unique large, industrial windows throughout and incredible wall space for hanging art. Ascend to the primary bedroom complete with hardwood flooring, private bathroom and terrific lighting. A second bedroom, laundry and full bathroom complete this level again featuring incredible natural
Discover this charming 1-bedroom condo in downtown Northampton, on a peaceful side street yet just steps away from all the action. This updated first-floor unit features a private covered side-entry deck, two walk-in pantries, a spacious walk-in storage closet, exclusive use of the front porch directly in front, and original wood trim. Enjoy the built-in dining room hutch, 5-panel doors, and
Nicely renovated 3BR 1.5BA updated ranch on nearly 1/2 acre on desirable Florence street! Current owners moved here in June; circumstances changed & they are relocating. Generously sized, the open living/dining/kitchen floor plan has picture windows overlooking the spacious back yard, & a fireplace in the living area. Modern kitchen w/ quartz countertops, all new SS appliances, new cabinets, an
Nestled on a quiet dead-end street, 48 Dunphy Dr in Northampton offers a great opportunity to establish roots in a peaceful neighborhood, just minutes to downtown Northampton and Easthampton. With 1680 sq. ft of light filled living space (not including the finished portion of the basement), there are 4 bedrooms, 2 down and 2 up, an eat-in-kitchen and a good sized living room. The property has a
WELCOME HOMEWelcome to Laurel Ridge, a residential community featuring One & Two bedroom apartments in Northampton, MA. Spacious layouts and amenities welcome you home, along with exceptional service and an ideal location within walking distance to shopping, dining and entertainment options. Are you looking for an apt for rent in Northampton, MA? Contact our friendly, professional office
Uncover a world of style and convenience at the Cherry Street Condos, your new slice of the Northampton scene! Fancy a breath of fresh air? Beautiful second floor unit, with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. The private deck on the second floor is your personal haven for starlit gatherings or tranquil morning coffees. Pet lovers, rejoice !!! Your cat friends (up to two) and insurable small dog under 35
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Florence is a village within the larger city of Northampton that's packed with outdoor recreation opportunities and retail and dining attractions, but in a quieter setting than the rest of the city. Homes here sometimes come with price tags that are more accessible than other parts of the area, too. “People really like the Village of Florence. It has everything you need,” says local Realtor Julia Held of Maple and Main Realty, LLC. “It’s just kind of smaller. It has a little old-fashioned hardware store, pizza place and banks. It’s a charming little small town.”
Homes
Many of the houses in Florence are similar to those one might find in the rest of Northampton — classic constructions that date back to the 19th century. A lot of these homes have been well-maintained through the years. Florence has quite a few houses built in the mid-20th century, too, a mix of Cape Cods and ramblers. Held, who has been an agent for almost 30 years, notes that there are pockets of newer homes in the area as well, some built in the last several years. Regardless of era, homes around Florence typically range from about 1,000 square feet to more than 4,000 square feet. Houses here stand on lots that are usually 4,000 square feet at minimum and up to multiple acres in some cases. Sale prices in Florence often hover from the mid-$200,000s to the $900,000s, though some homes top $1 million.
Schools
Held says that some people want to be in this area for the public schools. The Northampton Public Schools district carries an A-minus overall grade on Niche. Depending on where in the village they live, students here may start at either Leeds Elementary or R.K. Finn Ryan Road School for kindergarten to fifth grade, which boasts B-plus and B grades, respectively. Both schools offer afterschool care, and Leeds has a before-school program, too. Students then advance to the B-rated John F. Kennedy Middle, which has an advisory program that meets three times a week, fostering peer and mentor connections. The A-rated Northampton High features an information technology innovation pathway program with classes in robotics and AI, web design and programming, and cybersecurity.
Parks
Florence residents enjoy all the wider Northampton area's outdoor amenities, including the Connecticut River, which is popular for boating and fishing. Some outdoor attractions are particularly close to those who live in Florence. The roughly 1,000-acre Saw Mill Hills Conservation Area is among them, which includes multiple miles of trails for hikers and mountain bikers. Families can take their kids to Florence’s Arcanum Field, which has a playground, multiple athletic fields and a basketball court. Arcanum hosts a popular summer day camp for children ages 4 to 6 dubbed Safety Village, that teaches topics such as fire and water safety.
Shopping and Dining
Florence’s Main Street is a walkable stretch lined with restaurants and other businesses, including the Florence Bank, a Walgreens Pharmacy and a locally owned grocery store, Cooper’s Corner. The deli section at Cooper’s Corner is well-liked, including its made-to-order sandwiches. The eateries along Main Street include Miss Florence Diner, open since 1941 and housed in a train car. Locals can walk down to Florence Pie Bar for a treat after a meal, a spot whose varieties include apple crumb and brown butter pumpkin.
Events
Florence residents can enjoy a full schedule of events over the course of the year. Locals can peruse the offerings at the village’s farmers market, held each Wednesday at the Florence Civic Center. The civic center also hosts a summer concert series on Thursdays from June to September. Florence has its own Memorial Day Parade, a Rag Shag Halloween costume parade and a holiday parade on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, too.
Transportation
There are multiple Pioneer Valley Transit Authority bus stops dotted around Florence. Commuters can also reach Interstate 91 quickly, for drives out of town. Springfield is just about 20 miles south of Florence on I-91 and the Vermont state line is only about 30 miles away.
Property Mix - Square Feet
Northampton Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
26,116
Median Age
42
Population Density
27 ppl/acre
Population under 18
19.2%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
23.7%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$75,117
On par with the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$107,419
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
94.1%
College Graduates
63.1%
Significantly above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
34.7%
Above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
63.4%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
51''
Average Winter Low Temperature
19°F
Average Summer High Temperature
82°F
Annual Snowfall
27''
Area Factors
Bikeable
Bike Score®®
51/ 100
Car-Dependent
Walk Score®®
44/ 100
Some Transit
Transit Score®®
34/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the 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.
