$838,001Average Value$483Average Price per Sq Ft18Homes For Sale
Small-town vibes in a cozy Boston-area suburb
The community-oriented town of Wakefield lies just 14 miles from Boston. The town of 27,000 residents was incorporated in 1812 but has a much longer history. In 1638, Europeans began colonizing the area and called it Lynn Village. After a series of name changes, Wakefield was chosen to honor Cyrus Wakefield, a rattan industry leader whose local factory employed 1,000 workers at its height. Today, most residents of this bedroom community work within the Frito-Lay manufacturing industry or in healthcare, professional and technical services, or education. But it’s not all business here. Founded on the shores of Lake Quannapowitt and Crystal Lake, the town is a popular destination for outdoor activities in Middlesex County.
An aerial of the City of Wakefield, MA on a sunny, winter afternoon.
End the day with a boat ride on Lake Quannapowitt in Wakefield.
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A transitioning Main Street and open-air shopping centers
Downtown Wakefield is working to redevelop Main Street and update the area's mixed-use and residential buildings. Locals will soon have easier access to major downtown attractions like the Wakefield Farmers Market. The market is open every Saturday from mid-June through October, where 40 to 45 vendors sell locally grown produce while musicians play live music. A handful of eateries are along Main Street and North Avenue, and more restaurants can be found just a few minutes away along Route 28. "Harrington's Pub is a big hit with the locals looking for an authentic Irish pub experience. People also enjoy brunch at Blue Moon
Grill and grabbing a coffee at Zuzu’s Cafe before strolling through the town center," says Mary Kelly, a Realtor with Century 21 Property Central and resident of nearby Stoneham. Redstone Shopping Center lies just off Interstate 95, making it a convenient option for Wakefield residents. The open-air center has a mix of large and small retailers like Target and Marshalls. Just outside the town is MarketStreet Lynnfield, a shopping mall with over 80 shops, services and restaurants.
Harrington's Irish Pub is a popular spot in the evenings in central Wakefield.
The Marketplace at Lynnfield has many national retailers like Apple and more.
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Dog parks, community gardens and nature reserves
Even though Wakefield stretches only 8 square miles, it has over a dozen parks and places to get outside. At the center of it all, Lake Quannapowitt covers 247 acres and is home to the town’s common area. It's a popular regional destination for boating and swimming. The local library is a community gathering space in Wakefield. “We host four book groups, an English conversation group, a crochet and knitting meetup, and an opera club,” says Jaclyn Powers, assistant director and head of public service at the Lucius Beebe Memorial Library in town. “Outside groups also meet at the library to play cribbage, practice their Italian, connect with other jobseekers or conduct their own book discussion groups.” On Main Street there is a dog park and the JJ Round Community Garden. In addition to a skate park and BMX track, the parks department operates a myriad of adult and youth sports programs, summer camps and enrichment activities.
The town common bandstand during The Movies By The Lake in Wakefield, MA.
Pick the perfect book at the Wakefield Library.
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Lakeside festivals and history museums
Wakefield Center Neighborhood Association sponsors the annual Festival by the Lake. Held at the edge of Lake Quannapowitt on the town’s 20-acre common, the one-day event features a large arts and crafts market, a children’s area, food vendors and live music. The oldest building in Wakefield was once the home of Colonel James Hartshorne. Built in 1681, it’s been placed on the National Register of Places and is open for special events like comedy nights or fundraiser breakfasts. The library also hosts events and gatherings. “We're looking forward to the restoration of our Main Street Plaza in the spring and can't wait to host our summer music series, Plaza Jazz, for its 13th season,” Powers says.
Wakefield Farmers Market at Veterans Field in Wakefield, MA.
People order ice cream at sunset while at The Movies By The Lake in Wakefield, MA.
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Early 20th century houses in a competitive market
Like many desirable Greater Boston suburbs, Wakefield has limited inventory, particularly in the single-family home market. Most homes were built before 1940, though returning WWII GIs added to housing significantly until 1960. “Wakefield’s housing market is diverse, offering everything from historic colonials and charming Cape Cod-style homes to modern condominiums and newly developed townhouses,” Kelly says. “While Wakefield has more affordable options than some nearby suburbs, competition can be high, and properties often sell quickly.” The median single-family home value is around $825,000, almost twice the national figure. Condos and townhouses can range in price. Modest apartment-style units can cost between $200,000 and $400,000, while more luxurious units and townhouses can cost between $500,000 and $1 million. Every home has a risk of minor to severe damage from extreme hurricane or nor’easter winds off nearby Massachusetts Bay. To help mitigate the risks, the town has a CodeRED Alert System, from which citizens receive emergency alerts after signing up for the database.
Newer homes are being built up all over Wakefield.
Townhouses are also present in Wakefield.
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Planes, trains, automobiles and sidewalks
Wakefield’s major highways include Interstates 93 and 95, as well as Route 128, which run around the city’s edge before diverging in the neighboring town of Peabody. The MBTA Commuter Rail has two stops in Wakefield, while bus route 137 runs through Main Street in the center of town. The Council on Aging operates a paratransit service to help people reach medical appointments at nearby MelroseWakefield Hospital and local grocery stores. The town is also working to build pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure as part of the Mystic Highlands Greenway project to connect several communities, including Wakefield. Boston Logan International Airport lies 17 miles south of Wakefield.
International degrees and STEAM programs
Wakefield Public Schools earns a B from Niche, with an A-minus in academics and a B-plus in college prep. The district has nine campuses, as well as an active STEAM program that includes summer camps and after-school activities. Mystic Valley Regional Charter School educates over 1,600 students from kindergarten through graduation. It’s earned an overall A-minus from Niche and is one of the state’s top 10 charter schools.
The Greenwood Elementary School is one of several in Wakefield area.
There is a state-of-art football field at Wakefield Memorial High School.
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Environmental factors and crime
Wakefield’s violent and property crimes are below the national and state average, according to statistics released by the FBI in September of 2023.
Written By
Shelby Sullivan
Photography Contributed By
Amanda Beattie
Video By
Daniel Willingham
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Lora Savage,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Wakefield, MA sell after 22 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Wakefield, MA over the last 12 months is $792,500, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Experience refined living at the Wrenly Residences - Where Luxury Meets Lifestyle. This elegant 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom penthouse condo spans over 1,200 square feet all on one level, featuring engineered hardwood floors and a designer kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances. The spacious primary suite includes ample closet space and a luxurious tiled en-suite bathroom. The second bedroom offers
Last unit remaining in the 08 stack! Experience refined living at the AWARD WINNING Wrenly Residences - Where Luxury Meets Lifestyle. This elegant 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo spans over almost 1,400 square feet all on one level, featuring engineered hardwood floors and a designer kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances. The spacious primary suite includes ample closet space and a luxurious tiled
Experience refined living at the AWARD WINNING Wrenly Residences - Where Luxury Meets Lifestyle. This elegant 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo spans over 1,200 square feet all on one level, featuring engineered hardwood floors and a designer kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances. 2 Parking Spots Included! The spacious primary suite includes ample closet space and a luxurious tiled en-suite bathroom.
Welcome to this stunning, NEW never before occupied townhouse where contemporary style and effortless living come together. Bathed in natural light the thoughtfully designed open-concept main level offers high end finishes and a seamless flow between the living, dining, and kitchen areas making it ideal for both entertaining and everyday comfort. Upstairs, the second level features two spacious
There's lots of room to stretch out in this fifth floor unit! The master bedroom features 3 separate closets and an en-suite bath. The second bedroom, also a good size, has a full wall closet for lots of storage. The combo living room and dining area is set up perfectly for entertaining. There's a 12' slider opening on to the private screened-in balcony - it's like having an additional room in
Offer due Monday at 5:00pm. Move-in ready townhouse home offering spacious and flexible living space in a desirable Wakefield location. The main level features a bright and inviting layout with an updated kitchen showcasing quartz countertops, hardwood floors, and seamless flow into the living area with sliders leading to a private deck—perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The updated finished
Exceptional Colonial in a Highly Sought-After Neighborhood, Highlighted by a Quintessential New England Farmer’s Porch that offers an Inviting Welcome. This Oversize 3-Bedroom, 3.5-Bath Home with Private Office, Showcases Gleaming Hardwood Floors, a Dramatic Great Room with Vaulted Ceiling & Floor-to-Ceiling Stone, Gas Fireplace & Dual Access to the Large Outdoor Deck. The Voluminous Primary
Beautifully maintained brick executive-style home with circular driveway and a private in-law apartment offering incredible flexibility—all in a prime West Side Wakefield location. Main home features 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, a large living room with gas fireplace, formal dining room, kitchen, radiant floor heated breezeway to garage, and a relaxing three-season sun porch. Upstairs bath is updated
Absolutely stunning townhouse that lives like a single-family home, offering privacy, style, and a prime location near Crystal Lake, commuter rail to Boston, and downtown Wakefield. Enjoy a fenced yard abutting conservation land with walking trails, plus a spacious deck perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Inside the open-concept interior features 9-foot ceilings, crown molding, hardwood floors,
North Shore Real Estate Home GroupRealty One Group Nest
Step into this beautiful center-entrance colonial on a quiet dead-end street. With 5 over sized bedrooms, 4 full baths, and a rare first-floorin-law suite. The main level features a bright layout with generous living and dining areas and family room with fireplace. The in-law suite includes its own bedroom, full bath, kitchen and living area. Upstairs, you’ll find 4 additional bedrooms, including
Attention savvy investors and owner-occupants! Discover this incredible value-add opportunity at 293 Albion St, a rare two-family home situated in the highly desirable West Side of Wakefield. This property offers a wealth of classic character with hardwood floors throughout and soaring high ceilings that create an airy, spacious feel. The first-floor unit features three large rooms and one
This single-family home offers a rare opportunity to own a Wakefield property brimming with potential. 1 bedroom, 1 full bath, and a home office, that could be used as a second bedroom. The large eat in kitchen, flows into an oversize livingroom with decorative fireplace, wall unit AC and hardwood floors that continue into the primary bedroom with 2 closets and an office space/2nd bedroom.
We get it. You saw the pool. You were sucked in. Yes, folks, this is what the good life is when you're living at THE Preston Park Condominiums. Unit #9D might just be the best opportunity in the entire complex. This corner residence maximizes natural light throughout the day and cozy carpet is running underneath your feet throughout the space. You have your own enclosed porch, a veritable
TEAM BRUSILKeller Williams Realty Boston-Metro | Back Bay
Experience luxury in this beautifully renovated condominium located near the Lake. Completely renovated in 2024, this residence offers modern amenities and design. The unit features an open floor plan, seamlessly connecting the living spaces. Enjoy two private decks, perfect for relaxing while taking in stunning lake views. The kitchen is equipped with custom cabinetry, Thermidor appliances, a
Charming Raised Ranch with gleaming hardwood floors and natural woodwork. Featuring a large fireplaced living room with a picture window that opens to eat in kitchen with built in hutch. The main level also includes three ample bedrooms all with nice closet space and a three-season sunporch. The entry level features an entry foyer and includes a fireplaced family room, three quarter bath, laundry
Utilities Included. Overlooking Wakefield Common and Lake Quannapowitt. 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, unit for rent. Laundry in building. 1 off-street parking spots. Excellent location! . Restaurants, Shopping, Grocery store all conveniently located nearby! Easy access to major highways. Short drive to Boston. Public transportation nearby.
Artful Living in Wakefield, MAWelcome to The Elms, where elevated simplicity meets timeless tradition. Thoughtfully designed for those who take pride in what they've earned. Our one, two, and three-bedroom residences offer refined comfort in a community that values hard work and lasting quality. Be the first to experience life at The Elms
Renovated Studio Apartment in Prime Wakefield-Heat, Hot & Cold Water INCLUDED! Just steps to the MBTA Commuter Rail (easy ride to North Station). Minutes to I-95 and Lynnfield Marketplace. Walk to shops & restaurants on North Ave and Main St as well as beautiful Lake Quannapowitt. Enjoy the perfect mix of modern upgrades and classic charm. High ceilings with gleaming hardwood floors. Fresh paint
tate of the art Exercise Room, Billiards Room, Pool, Business Central, Central Heat/AC, Laundry Facility on every floor, Tennis Court, Heat/Hot Water included, Assigned ParkingWakefield 2 BR - Renovated - Parking, Central Heat & Hot Water Included!Recently renovated 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom apartment in a high-rise setting. Hardwood floors span the entirety of the space. The galley
Prime location in desirable Wakefield just 0.4 mile to the commuter rail and vibrant downtown. Bright and cheerful, this spacious one-bedroom end unit offers on-site one, assigned car parking space, additional storage, and laundry in the building. Heat and water are included in the rent. The welcoming floor plan seamlessly connects the updated kitchen and living area, creating a comfortable space
Are you looking for luxury apartment homes in Wakefield, MA? Explore our gallery to catch a glimpse of what's to come at Aster at The Summit and see why our impeccable studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes might be just right for you. Our community features lush landscaping and a unique design that will make you feel at home. Modern apartment interiors boast both form and function with
Across from Lake Quannapowitt, this meticulously maintained 4-bedroom, 4-bath Executive-style Townhome offers three levels of living space with two primary suites. The open-concept main level features a well-appointed kitchen with quartz countertops, center island, and black stainless steel appliances, flowing into a living room with crown molding, built-ins, and a gas fireplace. A formal dining
Discover the perfect blend of tranquility and connectivity at The Basin Apartments located in Wakefield, MA north of Boston. Just moments from the city yet worlds away, this lakeside retreat offers gorgeous apartment homes and amenities designed for effortless living. All set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Quannapowitt.
spacious 1 Bedroom / 1 Bathroom Condo Experience the perfect blend of historic character and modern convenience in the heart of downtown Wakefield. This beautiful one-bedroom, one-bath condo at Wakefield Crossing offers an ideal lifestyle just steps from local boutiques, dining, and the scenic beauty of Lake Quannapowitt..The Residence Open Living Space: A spacious floor plan featuring high
Centrally located off Route 128 and I-93, Everly is modern, convenient, and welcoming. Unwind in one of Everly's spacious, open-concept apartment homes complete with a gourmet kitchen and designer finishes. Enjoy the upscale amenities you deserve including Everly's saltwater pool, courtyard fire pit, and state-of-the-art Club Fit athletic center. Be moments away from great dining and designer
Second floor unit of 2-family in a desirable residential area with beautiful yard, close to the Common, Lake and Train, within easy reach of Rt. 95/128. The washer, dryer, refrigerator, etc are in the unit for the Tenant use. Tenant pays all utilities; gas, water, electric. Tenant agent gets paid by tenant, but Owner may consider other arrangement. Required to Rent; First Months ($2250), Security
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