$1,308,805Average Value$609Average Price per Sq Ft40Homes For Sale
Quiet and easygoing coastal living by iconic Cape Cod beaches
Orleans is a quaint seaside town on Cape Cod with beautiful beaches. The community has a year-round population of roughly 6,000, but that number nearly triples during the peak season between July and August. Compared to the more suburban Upper Cape area, Orleans offers a more laid-back beachtown vibe, says longtime Cape Cod resident Clayton Southworth. “I love it out there. You know the postcard pictures of Cape Cod? A lot of them come from Orleans. It has a long beach on the Atlantic side with these big sand dunes. That’s where all the surfer bros hang out.” The community is also a hub for artists. Its charming downtown features several local galleries.
Beachside homes in Orleans draw homebuyers with stunning views and proximity to sandy shores.
Orleans’ Main Street offers diverse stores and restaurants for shopping and dining in Cape Cod.
Orleans, MA features Crystal Lake and Pilgrim Lake, two scenic spots for recreation.
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Classic and timeless New England homes from the 1800s to the 2020s
Orleans's median sale price is around $1.1 million. Its older homes are full of authentic New England charm, featuring clapboard cottages and classic shingle-sided Colonials built as early as 1830. In the 20th century, a more dynamic array of homes was built; however, many adhered to vintage looks, displaying Minimal Traditional, Colonial Revival and Cape Cod styles. Even the new construction houses blend contemporary and historic designs for a more timeless appearance. Gales, hurricanes, heavy rains and tropical storms are regular weather hazards in Cape Cod, and many waterfront properties are in special flood zones, requiring flood insurance for federal backing. Hurricane season ranges from June to November on the Atlantic Coast. The state of Massachusetts encourages homeowners in coastal communities to know their evacuation routes and zones.
Colonial homes are plentiful in Orleans, creating a traditional and inviting atmosphere.
Lakeside new construction homes in Orleans deliver contemporary comfort in a serene setting.
Homes in Orleans stand out with unique designs and yards filled with vibrant seasonal trees.
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Barnstable County’s top school district and Nauset Regional High’s renovation
Niche grades Nauset Public Schools an A and ranks it as the best school district in Barnstable County. It serves around 1,300 students across seven schools. Nauset Regional High earns an A, too, and ranks as the county’s second-best public high school. The over-50-year-old facility is undergoing a roughly $170 million renovation. Phase one concluded in 2024, and the school celebrated the grand opening of its new state-of-the-art performing arts center with musical performances. Phase two of the project is estimated to wrap before the end of 2025.
Orleans Elementary School educates young learners from kindergarten through fifth grade.
Nauset Regional Middle School in Orleans teaches grades 6–8 with over 500 enrolled students.
Orleans’ Nauset Regional High School provides rigorous academics for college-bound learners.
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Beaches and green spaces in Orleans
Nauset Beach is a 10-mile stretch of white sand on the community’s east side. In season, visitors try to get there early in the morning to secure a spot. On the opposite end of Orleans, Skaket Beach skirts the calmer, warmer waters of Cape Cod Bay. This spot is particularly popular for shelling because of all the exposed tidal pools and flats during low tide. Orleans also has conservation areas with walking trails, popular among birders and hikers. Local boaters enjoy the boat ramp at Kent’s Point Conservation Area. The small peninsula is near the heart of the community, surrounded by coves, a pond and a river.
Nauset Beach in Orleans features 10 miles of sandy trails for scenic walks along the shoreline.
Boats sway gently in the breeze at Kent’s Point Conservation Area near Orleans on Cape Cod.
Skaket Beach in Orleans offers calm waters and scenic views opposite Nauset Beach on Cape Cod.
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Eclectic local shops, restaurants for seafoodies and grocery shopping choices
The area's small downtown is concentrated around Massachusetts Route 6A. The narrow, two-lane road winds past locally owned shops, selling everything from boats and tackle gear to books, jewelry and clothes. For over 40 years, Birdwatcher’s General Store has been a popular stop for local and visiting birders alike. The shop stocks binoculars, birdhouses, birdseed, feeders, field guides and more. There are a number of popular restaurants, too. The Knack is a modern restaurant opened by a pair of brothers who grew up in Cape Cod, eating so much of the coastal cuisine they serve now. Down the road, Cooke’s Seafood has been popular for lobster rolls, fried clams and more since 1976. There are two chain supermarkets and a few local grocery store options like Friends’ Market and Nauset Farms.
Bird Watchers’ General Store in Orleans attracts visitors with its unique birding supplies.
The Sparrow Store in Orleans draws locals with its eclectic mix of gifts and charming products.
Friends’ Marketplace in Orleans offers fresh groceries and a deli for convenient local shopping.
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Public transit, U.S. 6, the closest airport and the nearest hospital
The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority runs several seasonal and year-round bus routes with stops in Orleans; however, most drive to get around Cape Cod. U.S. Route 6 is the main way in and out of the community and the most direct route to the town of Barnstable, which has the nearest airport and hospital. Cape Cod Gateway Airport is 20 miles away, and Cape Cod Hospital is a couple of miles farther.
Public buses in Orleans make it easy for residents to reach destinations within and beyond town.
Just twenty miles away, the Cape Cod Gateway Airport offers flights for Orleans residents.
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Written By
Micaela Willoughby
Photography Contributed By
Kellan Beaver
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Chris Olson,
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.
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On average, homes in Orleans, MA sell after 57 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Orleans, MA over the last 12 months is $920,000, down 16% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
A Hidden Gem Near Skaket BeachNestled at the end of a peaceful lane in Orleans, 12 Phoebe's Close offers a rare combination of privacy, charm, and convenience. Surrounded by stone walls, mature gardens, and visiting songbirds, this serene retreat feels worlds away yet sits less than a mile from Skaket Beach and downtown.The main level features an inviting open layout with a bright kitchen and
Situated in the vibrant heart of Orleans, you'll find yourself just steps away from an array of restaurants, boutiques, Gyms, Farmers market and shopping.The nearby artist studios provide a unique window into the region's thriving art scene, ensuring there's always something new and exciting to explore. For those who love cycling, the proximity to the bike path is a true highlight.This
Exquisitely Renovated 1830 Greek Revival estate on 1+ acre... Step into timeless elegance blending historical charm with modern updates. Known as the historic Jabez Sparrow Homestead and set on a level and meticulously maintained 1.04-acre lot in a prime near beach location.Inside, the home features a desirable first-floor primary suite with spacious, brand new, modern full bathroom. Two
Unveil a slice of paradise at 6-12 Snow Way, Orleans, MA, offered alongside 12 Snow Way (MLS #73331530). Nestled on 1.63 captivating acres, this waterfront gem promises 3,250 sq. ft. of exquisite living space with 4 spacious bedrooms and 3 luxurious bathrooms. Relish in premium amenities such as a private outdoor oasis, a spacious garage, and exclusive waterfront access that embodies tranquility
Phare is a mixed-income family rental development that is currently under construction in the Town of Orleans. The new development involves the adaptive re-use of a former bank headquarters building, combined with a new addition and two separate townhouse buildings. Together, the refurbishment and new construction will provide 62 apartments at various income tiers.The location provides
Large one bedroom one bath apartment available just one block from Orleans Center at Oracle Square. All parking is off street in private parking lot. Parking spots (one per tenant) are not assigned. This is a second floor two story apartment occupying the space directly above Honey Candle. Private 12' x 6' wood deck off the dining room is also included. Both the living room/dining room and
FURNISHED, WINTER SEASON SHORT TERM RENTAL AVAILABLE October 15 to MAY 31. This classic Cape is located in the desirable Tonset area of Orleans. Enjoy nearby access to Town Cove via Asa's Landing, which is just a half mile walk down the road and where you can put in your kayak, paddle board, etc. and enjoy the protected waters of the Cove! Paddle over to Hopkins Island and explore! (Kayaks & SUPs
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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.
