$588,101Average Value$332Average Price per Sq Ft14Homes For Sale
Williamstown's historic charm in the Berkshires
Hidden within the northwest corner of Massachusetts, Williamstown is a small town surrounded by the Berkshires expansive mountain ranges and just miles from the borders of Vermont and New York. Williamstown is nearly inseparable from Williams College, an elite, private liberal arts school that anchors the community. Williamstown was founded in the mid-18th century and named after Ephraim Williams, who left money in his will to establish a 'free school' in the area. Years later, Williams College was established in 1793, making it the second-oldest college in Massachusetts.
Mountain peaks and outdoor recreation attract summer and winter tourists. But unlike other destinations in the Berkshires, "Williamstown boasts a vibrant year-round community," says Maureen Dietze, broker associate with Alton & Westall Agency, who has lived in Williamstown for over 40 years. Today, the school's nearly 2,000 students comprise a fourth of Williamstown's approximately 8,000 year-round residents and play a significant role in the town's entertainment and cultural offerings. "It's the perfect blend of sophisticated culture and country living," Dietze says. "We have access to world-renowned museums, all sorts of events, a myriad of hiking trails and gorgeous vistas wherever you look."
Williamstown's art scene, historic charm, walkable town center and natural landscapes often leave a mark on Williams College students, teachers and visitors alike. "Many graduates move away for jobs but buy second homes when they're older, which eventually become their primary residence. Dietze says. "It's almost like no other college town and rather isolated, so you see a deep loyalty and love for the area develop amongst students."
The arboreal nature of Williamstown can be seen from many of the surrounding mountains.
On Spring Street in Williamstown, Plates Mediterranean Bistro has indoor and outdoor dining.
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Williams College and A-rated public schools
Mount Greylock Public Schools is ranked the second-best district in Berkshire County by Niche. The district earns an overall A rating and enrolls approximately 1,200 students across two elementary schools, including the A-rated Williamstown Elementary and Mt. Greylock Regional High School, which garners an A-minus. "It's a great school system for being a college town," Dietze says.
Williams College, a private liberal arts school, brings the community to life with year-round events that range from athletic events to performances to public lectures. "Anyone can audit a course for free if you get the instructor's permission, so you see a lot of retirees taking advantage of that," Dietze says.
Williamstown Elementary School serves children in Pre-K to 6th grade in a state-of-the-art green building.
Greylock Regional High School is an academic springboard for students of Williamstown.
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A hotspot for the arts community
For decades, the Berkshires have served as a vibrant hub for the arts. "You have the Clark Art Institute in town, which is a world-class museum," Dietze says, known for its extensive collection of European and American art. And Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) is down the road in North Adams. The renowned Williamstown Theatre Festival draws audiences from across the country, while nearby Tanglewood hosts the Boston Symphony Orchestra every summer. Dietze notes that the region is also home to cultural treasures like the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge.
The Clark Institute in Williamstown has a variety of artworks on display in several galleries.
Residents of Williamstown can easily access the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art in nearby North Adams.
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Nearby hiking trails, golf courses and ski slopes
Local parks and conservation lands provide year-round recreation for hikers, bikers and cross-country skiers. The Appalachian Trail is one of several trails that pass through Mount Greylock State Reservation just outside of town. Cascade Trail is another popular path that leads to a rushing waterfall, while others can cool off in Margaret Lindley Park's small swimming hole. Farther south, Field Farm Reservation offers over 300 acres of open fields blooming with wildflowers, lush woodlands and wetlands on the south side of town. The farm features a bed and breakfast and 4 miles of public pathways that weave past 13 art sculptures.
In the heart of town, the Clark Art Institute's expansive grounds double as a community walking trail, with scenic views of meadows and mountain peaks. Smaller green spaces like Mount Hope Park feature less strenuous walking paths. Additional trails weave past flowing waterways, however, low-lying areas near the Hoosic River are prone to flooding. Two local golf courses, Taconic Golf Club and Waubeeka Springs Golf Course, offer a different kind of green. With an annual snowfall total of around 40 inches, winter sports are popular pastimes. Mount Greylock Ski Club features a small ski area in South Williamstown, but most residents head to Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort, less than 15 miles away.
Williamstown is home to the Taconic Golf Club and the Waubeeka Springs Golf Course.
Hiking trails and a pond for swimming are available at the Margaret Lindley Park in Williamstown.
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Historic homes with New England character
Williamstown is known for its well-preserved 1800s colonial- and Federal-style farmhouses, many of which sit on tree-lined streets within walking distance of Spring Street–the community's downtown hub. Other roads give way to an eclectic mix of 20th-century Cape Cods and split-levels scattered between small cottages and ramblers. Most properties near town can range from the mid-$200,000s to the mid $400,000s, with other homes can sell into the $600,000s depending on square footage and interior updates. Late 20th-century condominiums near town are also available, ranging from the mid-$300,000s to the mid-$400,000s, while modern 21st-century units can range from $500,000s to the upper $900,000s. Properties increase in size and acreage outside of downtown. Custom-built mountain retreats hidden behind the tree line can start in the $700,000s, with most ranging from $1 million to $2.4 million.
For traditional early 20th century homes, many can be found in Williamstown.
18th and 19th century farmhouses are an elegant aspect of the homes in Williamstown.
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Spring Street's walkable town center and nearby amenities
Williams College surrounds Spring Street, a walkable town center with bookstores, coffee shops, an old-timey movie theater, boutiques and restaurants. "You don't have to leave town for the essentials," Dietze says. "We have several fine dining restaurants that serve a range of global cuisine." A gourmet grocery store and the Wild Oats Market, a popular co-op amongst residents, are scattered along State Route 2. Chain stores like Dollar General and Stop & Shop are also nearby. North Adams offers additional eateries and a Walmart Supercenter less than 10 miles away, while Pittsfield features several big-box stores 20 miles south.
On Spring Street in Williamstown, stop by Chapter Two Books for some pleasant reading material.
Many residents of Williamstown enjoy the Images Cinema on Spring Street.
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Getting around Williamstown
Williamstown College and the surrounding downtown area are biker and pedestrian-friendly, with FBI crime rates significantly lower than the national average. Berkshire Regional Transit Authority provides public transportation, but most residents rely on personal vehicles to get around. Albany International Airport is about 40 miles west via Massachusetts State Route 2. Route 2 is also the main road through town, connecting residents about 5 miles east to North Adams Regional Hospital. Pittsfield's larger medical center and Amtrak station are about 20 miles south via U.S. Route 7.
There are several busses that run through Williamstown, both along Route 2 and some neighborhood streets.
The arboreal nature of Williamstown can be seen from many of the surrounding mountains.
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Written By
Lillie Duston
Photography Contributed By
Jonathan Coon
Video By
Kyle Keyes
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Nadine Hiser,
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 Williamstown, MA sell after 55 days on the market compared to the national average of 49 days. The median sale price for homes in Williamstown, MA over the last 12 months is $425,000, down 12% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Cable Mills consists of three former industrial mill buildings restored into beautiful homes featuring 12ft to 16ft tall ceilings, massive windows, and exposed brick and beam, steel and timber throughout, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, gas-fired ranges, generous closets and in home laundry. Cable Mills offers stunning views of the famed ‘Purple Mountains’ and the rolling Green
Sarah HaskinsStreamline Communities - Williamstown
Cable Mills consists of three former industrial mill buildings restored into beautiful homes featuring 12ft to 16ft tall ceilings, massive windows, and exposed brick and beam, steel and timber throughout, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, gas-fired ranges, generous closets and in home laundry. Cable Mills offers stunning views of the famed 'Purple Mountains' and the rolling Green
Lovely 3-bedroom, 2-bath Cape on a half-acre lot close to the Williams College campus and the center of town has been fully renovated and is move-in ready! Beautiful kitchen with granite countertops, a large breakfast bar, marble backsplash, stainless steel appliances, Shaker-style cabinets with pull-outs and soft-close drawers, and recessed lighting. The kitchen opens visually to the dining area
Loft-Inspired Townhouse in the Heart of Williamstown, MA - Gateway to the BerkshiresExperience refined, loft-style living in this beautifully designed 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom condominium townhouse, ideally located just steps from Williamstown's charming New England village center. Nestled in the scenic Berkshires, this sophisticated residence offers modern elegance, open-concept design, and
A rare chance to own two attached full size charming houses in one of the most coveted neighborhoods! Abuts 30 acres of conservation land and offers direct backyard access to The Spruces Park, Hoosic & Green River walk/ swimming area, public tennis courts, and Mohican multi-use bike/walk path! Original Home: (Built in 1953, updated in 2016) has its own private entrance and deck, 2 bedrooms, 1
Nice home with open floor plan in elevated neighborhood with 3 bedrooms and 1 bath. Gleaming hardwood floors throughout on a large corner lot with rear private deck. One car garage underneath with auto opener. Newer heating system and 2 HVAC units for AC.. Perfect for a small family or someone downsizing.
This property located at 3401 Hancock Rd features a studio layout with 0 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, encompassing a total of 350 square feet. The living space is efficiently designed, offering essential amenities such as air conditioning, a dishwasher, and in-unit washer/dryer for convenience. The bathroom is equipped with standard fixtures and provides necessary privacy. The unit comes furnished,
Beautifully renovated space with new windows, wood floors, recessed lighting, and new bathroom. Lobby space, plus 2-3 additional offices. About 500 square feet in total. Plenty of parking. Hot water included, tenant pays electric. Available on July/August 1, 2025, 1 year lease preferred.
Prime Main Street Retail Opportunity in Williamstown! Approx. 1,200 SF of versatile commercial space available in a high-visibility retail plaza in the heart of town. Formerly a successful donut shop, this location offers a strong footprint for your next cafe, boutique, gallery, or service business. Surrounded by popular destinations and steady foot traffic, the plaza offers ample shared parking,
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