When spring melts the New England snow, the residents of Norwood take advantage of the warm temperatures by congregating at Norwood Common. “Norwood is known for its tight-knit community and the unique reputation of being a place where people rarely leave—and if they do, they often come back," says Kerry Webber, a Realtor with RedDoor Properties LLC who has lived in Norwood for over 40 years. “It’s a city where neighbors know each other, and families have deep, long-standing connections.” The town common is identifiable by its charming white gazebo and a Gothic-style town hall. “All year long the 110-foot belltower, which houses a 50-bell carillon, towers over the town commons playing music,” Webber says.
In 2023, the United States Census Bureau estimated Norwood's population at just over 31,000. The town is home to major pharmaceutical companies, including Moderna, which is building a $400 million campus there. Norwood Hospital was once a large employer in the area but closed in 2020 due to flooding, and the city hopes that new ownership will restore the hospital in the future.
Children love to play on the gazebo at Norwood Common in Norwood Centre.
Castle Island's 2nd annual Puppy Bowl in South Norwood is the perfect family event to enjoy some puppy tricks.
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A hot housing market with lower property taxes
The median single-family home price is about $725,000, while the median townhouse is $710,000. In comparison, Boston’s median single-family home price is $895,000, and the median townhouse is $1,340,000. "The city's favorable zoning bylaws promote multi-family housing developments, apartment and condo complexes, making it easier for individuals and families, including low-income residents and veterans, to find affordable homes,” Webber says. “This is complemented by a dedicated housing authority that directly addresses these needs.”
Split-level homes, Cape Cods and ranch-styles built between the 1800s and 2024 are common in North Norwood . There are similar styles in South Norwood , but there isn't as much new construction. Many Norwood Centre homes are within walking distance of Norwood Commons and downtown. “The phrase ‘on fire’ aptly captures the current market conditions,” Webber says. “With demand consistently outpacing supply, Norwood has become an attractive destination for homebuyers, creating a highly competitive environment.” She adds that lower property taxes are another incentive for buyers as well as the town-run electric and cable departments.
Classic Cape style homes can readily be found around South Norwood.
Cape homes area a popular style in North Norwood.
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Norwood Public Schools and a technical option
Norwood Public Schools receives an A-minus from Niche. The district has one high school, one middle school and five elementary schools. Coakley Middle School currently has a new building under construction and is expected to be completed in the fall of 2025. “High school students have the unique advantage of being able to apply to Blue Hills Vocational Regional Technical School, where they can learn a trade,” Webber says. The school earns a C-plus grade.
Norwood High School in Norwood Center is highly rated.
Norwood's Coakley Middle School offers academic excellence and a supportive environment.
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Indoor fitness at Norwood Civic Center
Parents can take their kids to one of eight small playgrounds throughout town. Norwood is currently rehabilitating Bernie Cooper Riverfront Park after receiving the funding through a state grant. The new park design will prioritize accessibility and preserving nature. Hawes Pool is another amenity getting an update and will welcome back swimmers in the summer of 2025. Members of the Norwood Civic Center can use the indoor gym, pool and sauna. Norwood residents can combine fitness and fun at the town’s bowling alley, trampoline park and indoor mini golf course.
Many South Norwood residents visit the Endean Park for fun or water scenery.
Enjoy a walk with your pet through the Hennessey Field trails in Norwood Centre.
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Vintage shopping at Norwood Space Center
A historic mill turned creative mixed-use development, Norwood Space Center offers a unique mix of breweries, art studios, vintage shops and fitness. Residential spaces are expected to come soon. Downtown is a collection of small boutiques and family owned eateries like Lewis’ Restaurant. “It’s known as the town’s watering hole,” Webber says. “Lewis’ has a warm, welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of Cheers — a place where you walk in and recognize familiar faces.” Larger retail and grocery stores are in shopping centers like Norwood Plaza. Norwood Theater hosts live music, dance and comedy performances. “It’s a gem of 1926 architecture inspired by 10th-century Spanish Romanesque design,” Webber says. “The theater adds a touch of cultural charm to the community.”
Browse the amazing vintage shopping at Winsmith Mill Marketplace in South Norwood.
A local resident sifts through gorgeous jewelery at the Evergreen Faire in North Norwood.
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Celebrating Norwood Day with neighbors
In the fall, Norwood Day is a chance for everyone to get together and enjoy local entertainment, games and food. The town hosts events for several holidays, including Trunk or Treat for Halloween and a Holiday Tree Lighting & Santa Claus Parade. Many of Norwood’s events and fundraisers support families that have gone through catastrophic events. “The annual "Dancing with the Stars" fundraiser and other community events not only foster local business support but also enhance community cohesion,” Webber says.
Santa arrives in style at the Holiday Tree Lighting in Norwood Centre.
Grab some swag at the Fall Crawl in Norwood Centre.
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Just 20 miles from Boston
U.S. Route 1A runs through Norwood before connecting to Interstate 95 — the main highway running through the Boston metro area. The town is around 20 miles from Boston and 30 miles from Providence. Norwood has three MBTA Commuter Rail stations, with Norwood Central being the busiest. There are also MBTA bus lines throughout town. A drive to Boston Logan International Airport will take around 30 miles on I-95. The town has warm summers and cold, snowy winters. Norwood currently has no crime statistics.
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