Waltham
"Where the Industrial Revolution started and tech bros now rule"
Editorial median as of February 3, 2025. 62 closed single-family sales in 2026, through November 6, 2026.
Home Values in Waltham, MA
The median home price in Waltham, MA is $853,000, with homes trading at $460/sqft. Home values in Waltham have appreciated at roughly 4.5% per year, reflecting strong ongoing demand from buyers prioritizing schools and commute access.
Census estimated median home value: $679K (ACS 2022 5-year). Current market prices typically run higher due to post-2022 appreciation.
Financing Considerations
Properties in Waltham typically may qualify for high-balance conforming loans, though jumbo financing might be needed depending on exact property price.
Learn about loan thresholds, property condition impact, flood/wind insurance, and how vintage homes (common in many MA towns) affect mortgage approval.
The Vibe
Former industrial powerhouse turned biotech and tech hub with authentic neighborhood feel
What It's Really Like
Waltham was America's first industrial city and now hosts major biotech and tech companies. It's affordable, diverse, and has real neighborhood character—not fancy, just real.
Best For
- ✓Tech/biotech workers at nearby companies
- ✓First-time buyers wanting value with potential
- ✓Families seeking diversity and solid schools
- ✓Those who want authentic neighborhoods over suburban perfection
Avoid If
- ✗You need top-tier schools
- ✗You want prestige addresses
- ✗You prefer walkable urban areas (it's car-dependent)
Highlights
Insider Tips
- Prospect Hill area is the most desirable neighborhood
- Moody Street has the best restaurants in MetroWest
- Brandeis University brings culture and college-town energy
Demographics
Source: Census ACS 2023 5-year estimates
Economic Profile
Religious Community
Housing Stock Age
Moderate Insurance Risk
Median home built in 1961. Insurance premiums estimated at $2,200/year. Some older homes may require system updates (electrical, plumbing, HVAC).
Insurance Cost Calculator
Estimate your annual homeowners insurance premium
Leave blank to use town median (1961)
30-Year Mortgage Impact
Total insurance cost over 30-year mortgage (equivalent to 0.2% of home value)
Age Penalty
This home costs $479 more per year to insure than a newly built home. Over 30 years, that's $14,370 in additional insurance costs.
Ways to Lower Your Premium
- Bundle home + auto insurance with same carrier (10-25% discount)
- Increase deductible from $500 to $2,500 (save 15-30%)
- Install monitored security system (5-20% discount)
- Update electrical panel and remove knob-and-tube wiring
- Replace roof with impact-resistant materials (save 5-15%)
- Upgrade plumbing to PEX or copper
- Complete full home inspection and address major issues
- Consider MAPFRE or Chubb for historic home coverage
* Estimates based on Massachusetts state averages and typical underwriting criteria. Actual premiums vary by carrier, coverage limits, deductible, claims history, and credit score. For accurate quotes, contact a licensed insurance agent.
Construction Era Distribution
Resources & Research
School Information
Compare 48 high schools by SAT scores, MCAS proficiency & college enrollment
Market Analysis
Recent sales data, price drivers, and market trends for Waltham
Vote on what live Waltham listings will actually close for — shareable price checkpoints
Break-even math, SALT cap impacts & decision framework for Boston buyers
Ready to Find Your Perfect Property in Waltham?
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Property report for an address in Waltham
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