$1,177,590Average Value$426Average Price per Sq Ft18Homes For Sale
Norwell is a rural town with historic roots
The past and the present are brought together in Norwell, a sleepy town in rural South Shore about 24 miles south of downtown Boston. People have lived in this area since the early 17th century, but it wasn’t until 1888 that the town was officially named Norwell. For much of its history, the town was known for its prominent shipbuilding and agricultural industries. In the modern era, however, Norwell has transitioned into a primarily residential community with homes, schools and other amenities spread out across the countryside. “People come here for our top-rated school system and proximity to both the city and the beach,” says Melissa McNamara, a Norwell resident and Realtor with The Melissa McNamara Group at William Raveis. Norwell Public Schools is a small district comprising two elementary schools, one middle and one high school. The support from Norwell’s community drives the district’s success and excellent student outcomes. Regarding employment, McNamara says that the town has a mix of people who work in the immediate area and residents who commute to large employers in Boston. While the town has mostly adapted to the modern age, its history remains preserved in Norwell Center, a protected historic district at the heart of the community.
Lush vegetation surrounds the quiet streets of Norwell.
Welcome to Norwell founded in 1888.
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Old and new homes with New England architecture
Norwell has a vast range of housing options, most of which incorporate classic New England architecture in some way. Potential homebuyers can find everything from quintessential Cape Cods and colonials to farmhouses and Craftsman-style builds. “There’s a mix of old and new housing in Norwell; I would say the average build year is around the mid-1900s,” McNamara says. While some properties date all the way back to the late 1600s, others were built as recently as 2024. There are also plans for future building projects in Norwell; a highly-anticipated new construction development called Cranberry Crossing is set to launch in 2025. Many homes sit on sizeable lots that offer privacy and back up into the surrounding forests. Closer to Massachusetts Route 3 – also called Pilgrims Highway – lot sizes shrink, and homes sit closer together. “I would say entry-level pricing for a home in Norwell is between $800,000 and about a million,” McNamara says. As of mid-2025, the median price of a single-family home was estimated to be a little more than $1.1 million.
A craftsman and colonial home line the streets of Norwell.
Large custom-built homes can be found throughout Norwell.
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Norwell Public Schools is a top-rated district
The Norwell Public Schools district receives an overall A rating from Niche and is only comprised of four schools: William Gould Vinal Elementary and Grace Farrar Cole Elementary School receive A-minus ratings, while Norwell Middle and Norwell High School are both rated A. Norwell High is ranked the No. 21 best public high school in Massachusetts by U.S. News and World Report, which also reported that the school had a 99% graduation rate. High school students can enroll in honors and Advanced Placement courses; Norwell High also offers a Senior Internship Program and compiles a roster of companies interested in bringing on a student intern. Extracurricular activities at Norwell High School include several athletic teams, academic clubs and performing arts groups.
Norwell students attend Norwell Middle School which received a B+ from Niche.
William G Vinal in Norwell was given an overall A grade from Niche.
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Town recreation amenities, hiking areas and water access
Norwell’s rural location lends itself to an abundance of parks and outdoor spaces for residents to explore. In addition to surrounding nature reserves and state parks, Norwell also has a designated department that oversees recreation throughout the developed parts of town. “Norwell is full of community walking trails and bike paths,” McNamara says. The recreation department also helps organize local youth sports, which typically use school athletic facilities to host practice and games. When it comes to things like hiking trips, McNamara says that the Norris Reservation is a popular destination with an extensive trail system. In the northern part of Norwell, residents can access Wompatuck State Park, which sprawls across more than 3,500 acres of land. People can also access the North River and enjoy boating, fishing or canoeing. The river travels through Plymouth County and out to the coast, which sits approximately 10 miles from Norwell and is lined with several public beaches.
Ride the terrain at Wompatuck State Park in just outside Norwell.
Take a long stroll on the trails at Norwell Recreation Department in Norwell.
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Local shopping and dining at Norwell Center
Alongside Norwell’s countryside setting are pockets of suburban convenience with local businesses and basic shopping and dining options. “Norwell Center is comprised of pretty much everything you need from a gas station to a coffee shop,” McNamara says. She notes that the center – which lines the town’s Main Street – is home to Beacon Marketplace, where residents can purchase gourmet food and some basic food items. “We’ve also got a gift shop that just opened up; I would say Norwell Center is up and coming,” she says. Local restaurants in this pocket include Cheever Tavern and The Tinker’s Son, an Irish-themed eatery with regular live entertainment performances. Four miles down the road from Norwell Center are larger chain grocery stores like Stop and Shop; just across the highway from there is Hanover Crossing, an indoor shopping mall with dozens of national retailers.
Head to The Tinker's Son in Norwell for some live music.
Stop by the Norwell Package and General Store for all your daily needs.
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Getting around the South Shore area and up to Boston
Norwell residents are car-dependent; most town roads are low-traffic country roads like Main Street. The most prominent thoroughfare in Norwell is Massachusetts Route 3, also known as Pilgrims Highway, which commuters can take north to merge onto Interstate 93 towards downtown Boston. The closest rail service station is the Greenbush train station, just under 5 miles from Norwell Center in the neighboring town of Scituate. At the station, people can access the MBTA’s Greenbush Line, which connects to Boston. For domestic and international air travel, the Boston Logan International Airport is a 26-mile drive away. South Shore Hospital is 10 miles away and has a 24-hour emergency service department.
Written By
Hayley Simms
Photography Contributed By
Shawn Miller
Video By
Tyler Newbold
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Mary Beiche,
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 Norwell, MA sell after 19 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Norwell, MA over the last 12 months is $970,000, down 15% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
"The Hawthorne" is surrounded by a serene and scenic setting. This stunning 6,544 sq ft home, where elegance meets modern sophistication. With 5 beds and 5.5 baths, the layout is perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. The home's chef’s kitchen features a 10 ft island, inset cabinetry, a high-end appliance package, and is complemented by a well-appointed wet bar and walk-in pantry. A
Melissa McNamaraWilliam Raveis R.E. & Home Services
Incredible Norwell value! This beauty has all the smart improvements: roof, HVAC, electrical and plumbing + new kitchen & baths. Walk to Norwell Center or the North River from this turn-key property. The newly updated kitchen is sleek and efficient with dual appliances & so much storage. New bathrooms feature high-end finishes of marble, glass & tile. Large, beautifully proportioned spaces on the
Laurie DetwilerWilliam Raveis R.E. & Home Services
Very few homes are built to this level! Crafted by one of the South Shore’s premier builders, this custom new construction home is set on a quiet cul-de-sac on one of Norwell’s most desirable streets—offering a rare opportunity to secure a thoughtfully designed masterpiece. Privately sited and surrounded by natural beauty, the home offers 4,366 square feet of refined living space, featuring 4
Built in 1869 by master shipbuilder Thomas Barstow & tucked back off the road on .75 private acres in historic Four Corners, The Barstow House is a rare opportunity to own a true piece of Hanover history. Hidden behind mature trees & approached a long circular driveway, this remarkable property feels worlds away from the everyday. Inside, soaring ceilings, original wide pine floors, & period
Opportunity knocks for investors and builders! Discover the perfect canvas for your dream home on this picturesque 1.5-acre lot located at 165 High Street in the charming town of Norwell. Nestled in a serene, residential neighborhood, this property offers a unique blend of natural beauty and convenient access to local amenities. There is ample space to design and build a home that meets your
A once-in-a-generation opportunity on one of Norwell’s most beautiful and storied roads. Rarely does a property of this scale, character and setting become available. Set well back from River Street on 5.4 breathtaking acres, this captivating c.1850 Antique Colonial is surrounded by sweeping lawns, magnificent mature trees, historic stone walls and a classic New England barn. A winding circular
Welcome to this updated & modernized 1850's Norwell historic school house. With an open floor plan, newly renovated granite kitchen (Bosch appliances; refrigerator, dishwasher, range and microwave), 17ft high vaulted beamed family room, new primary bath with walk-in shower, oversized 12 over 12 floor to ceiling windows,10ft high ceilings, first floor primary bedroom, oversized picture window,
"The Hawthorne" is surrounded by a serene and scenic setting. This stunning 6,544 sq ft home, where elegance meets modern sophistication. With 5 beds and 5.5 baths, the layout is perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. The home's chef’s kitchen features a 10 ft island, inset cabinetry, a high-end appliance package, and is complemented by a well-appointed wet bar and walk-in pantry. A
Melissa McNamaraWilliam Raveis R.E. & Home Services
Fix and flip or fix and live. Affordable mobile home in small park in Norwell. Great location close to highway and shopping. 5 rooms with 2 bedrooms 1 bath.Small shed on property. Property to be sold in as-in condition with all contents included. HOA fee is $715 plus water and sewer.
Welcome to 174 Cross Street in Norwell - a truly unique antique home where timeless New England charm meets modern comfort. Spanning more than 2,800 square feet, this 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath residence beautifully blends historic character with thoughtful modern additions. Inside, the home offers a variety of inviting spaces, including a charming reading room with a fireplace, a loft with an office
Incredible Norwell value! This beauty has all the smart improvements: roof, HVAC, electrical and plumbing + new kitchen & baths. Walk to Norwell Center or the North River from this turn-key property. The newly updated kitchen is sleek and efficient with dual appliances & so much storage. New bathrooms feature high-end finishes of marble, glass & tile. Large, beautifully proportioned spaces on the
Laurie DetwilerWilliam Raveis R.E. & Home Services
Discover the ease of one-floor living at 47 Silver Brook Lane, a beautifully maintained gem tucked away in one of Norwell’s most sought-after pockets. This home offers a seamless, single-level layout featuring two spacious bedrooms and two full bathrooms, designed for those who value both comfort and accessibility.You’ll feel the difference the moment you step inside. The bright, open flow makes
Come home to this spacious, sun-drenched four-bedroom New England farmhouse, where updated living meets timeless charm. From the moment you step inside, you'll appreciate the custom built-ins and the chef-ready kitchen with granite countertops, a center island, and a Sub-Zero appliance. Whether you're relaxing in the huge family room or soaking up the light in the cheery sunroom, comfort is key.
Very few homes are built to this level! Crafted by one of the South Shore’s premier builders, this custom new construction home is set on a quiet cul-de-sac on one of Norwell’s most desirable streets—offering a rare opportunity to secure a thoughtfully designed masterpiece. Privately sited and surrounded by natural beauty, the home offers 4,366 square feet of refined living space, featuring 4
Welcome to 165 High Street, where you can enjoy everything, buyers love about Norwell, top-rated schools, beautiful conservation land, a strong sense of community, and easy access to the South Shore’s shopping, dining, and commuter routes. This rare two-family opportunity offers the space and flexibility today's lifestyle demands. Opportunity to buy lot sitting on 1.5 acres as well. See MLS
Open House Saturday, September 12, 2026 from 11:00 AM–1:00 PM. Tour available apartment homes, explore the community, and learn more about current and upcoming availability.Fall Living at Its BestCrisp Air, Community, and Modern ComfortsFall has arrived at 15 High Street Residences, bringing cooler days, colorful foliage, and countless opportunities to enjoy everything our
Luxury apartments in Hanover, MA neighboring local shopping and dining destinations within Hanover Crossing. Choose from studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom residences featuring first-class kitchens, generous closets, spacious layouts, and spa-inspired bathrooms. Residents have access to upscale amenities including a resort-style pool, an expansive social courtyard with outdoor games, an
Welcome to this charming rental opportunity in the heart of Norwell, MA, where comfort meets convenience. Nestled in a vibrant area, this property offers easy access to several delightful restaurants and essential department stores. For added peace of mind, ConvenientMD Urgent Care Pembroke is just a 12-minute drive away. This well-appointed home boasts modern heating and cooling amenities,
1bd 1bath apartment unit with private entrance and ample natural light. A lot of closet space. Only apartment in building. Off Street parking. Heat / AC controls in-unit. Second floor walk-up. Unfurnished. No pets. Non-smoking building. Tenant pays utilities. Owner not offering commission.
Nestled on a private cul-de-sac, this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom Colonial offers a furnished rental combining privacy, space, and convenience. Inside, you'll find hardwood floors throughout, the eat-in kitchen with SS appliances and stone countertops, formal dining room, and separate living room. The spacious family room features a soaring cathedral ceiling and cozy fireplace. Upstairs you
Christian JevneColdwell Banker Realty - Norwell - Hanover Regional Office
PRIME LONG POND LOCATION! Welcome to this spacious 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath top-floor rental located in a peaceful wooded area off Long Pond Rd. This home offers comfortable year-round living with a great combination of privacy, space and convenience. The open layout creates an inviting flow between the living room, dining area and kitchen. The kitchen features an abundance of cabinetry and counter
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