The 10 Wealthiest Towns in Massachusetts - Most Expensively (2023)

The 10 Wealthiest Towns in Massachusetts - Most Expensively (1)

Massachusetts is often referred to as “The Bay State” because of its history as a center for shipping and sailing. The state is known for its many colleges and universities, which provide plenty of opportunities for students who are interested in pursuing higher education.

Massachusetts is also well known for having some of the most beautiful coastlines in the country, making it a very popular tourist destination. Massachusetts has long been a popular place for immigrants from all over the world to come and call home.

The state has one of the highest percentages of people who were born outside of the country, with about 27% of the population being born outside of the United States according to recent estimates. That number makes Massachusetts one of the most ethnically diverse states in America.

The warm climate and welcoming attitude that exist in Massachusetts make it easy for people to settle there, but they also make it a good choice for businesses that require extensive amounts of manpower and workers who can commute easily.

Related: The 10 Most Expensive Towns in Massachusetts

Top 10 Richest Towns in Massachusetts

Massachusetts is home to many different industries, including manufacturing and technology, which account for many jobs in the state.

There are also plenty of opportunities available in more specialized fields, such as biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, finance and insurance, education, tourism, and more.

Massachusetts is the 6th richest state in the United States of America. According to thelatest data, there are 4 cities or towns in Massachusetts that have a higher per capita income than the average state income.

Here is a list of the richest cities in Massachusetts

1. Weston – Per Capita Income of $105,217

The 10 Wealthiest Towns in Massachusetts - Most Expensively (2)

When compared to the other towns, the richest town in Massachusetts has a per capita income of $105,217 and a much higher median family income of $250,000 or more. In 2019, Bloomberg recognized Middlesex County’s Weston town as having the 11th wealthiest zip code in the whole United States.

With an average AGI of $757,000 at the time, it’s apparent that this residential community is populated by the rich. Weston is also noted for its various outdoor activities, and it is regarded as one of the most pleasant communities in the whole state.

2. Dover – Per Capita Income of $89,476

The 10 Wealthiest Towns in Massachusetts - Most Expensively (3)

Located in Norfolk County, Dover is home to 5,891 residents. The average household income here is a whopping $187,829 per year. Dover’s town center is full of antique shops and art galleries that attract tourists from all over.

Residents also enjoy the community’s annual Dover Days Festival. The town has been named one of the most romantic destinations in Massachusetts by various publications and websites.

The median family income in Dover is $193,750. Property taxes are significantly lower than in most parts of the state, although the cost of living here is still substantially higher than the national average.

The town also has a very low crime rate. Dover has an active municipal government that provides residents with numerous amenities and services such as parks and athletic fields.

Related: The 10 Richest Neighborhoods In Atlanta

3. Sherborn – Per Capita Income of $82,550

The 10 Wealthiest Towns in Massachusetts - Most Expensively (4)

Sherborn, Massachusetts is the richest town in Massachusetts. The median household income of this town is $172,750. The median family income is $177,845. The percentage of families with a working householder, which is 89%, is higher than the state average of 67%.

This town has a median age of 46 years. About 12% of the population has obtained a bachelor’s degree or higher.

The most common occupations are management, business, science, and arts occupations, including legal occupations, engineering and healthcare practitioners, and technicians. The town has a high per capita income of $82,550 and a very low poverty rate of 1.3%.

4. Brookline – Per Capita Income of $77,585

The 10 Wealthiest Towns in Massachusetts - Most Expensively (5)

The town of Brookline, Massachusetts, located in Norfolk County and part of the Boston metropolitan area, is the wealthiest town in the state.

The town of Brookline is the fourth wealthiest community in Massachusetts, with a median household income of $160,034. Brookline residents have an average per capita income of $77,585 in 2020 according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This makes it one of the richest towns in Massachusetts.

Many families in Brookline are supported by two incomes, especially considering that over one-third of households have children. The Brookline public school system is widely recognized as one of the best in the state.

Related: The 10 Richest Cities In Connecticut

5. Newton – Per Capita Income of $73,420

The 10 Wealthiest Towns in Massachusetts - Most Expensively (6)

Newton is the 5th richest town in Massachusetts with a median household income of $223,444 and a median home price of $815,000. Home to more than 78,427 residents, Newton has a median family income of $164,063. The average home value in the town is $1.1 million.

Males have a median income of $92,954 versus $64,711 for females. The per capita income for the town is $73,420. About 1.9% of families and 2.5% of the population are below the poverty line, including 3.2% of those under age 18 and 1.9% of those age 65 or over.

Newton has some of the wealthiest neighborhoods in Massachusetts like Chestnut Hill and Newton Lower Falls. The town also ranks among the safest places in Massachusetts. It is located approximately 15 miles from downtown Boston.

6. Lexington – Per Capita Income of $72,744

The 10 Wealthiest Towns in Massachusetts - Most Expensively (7)

The town is located in Middlesex County and has a population of more than 22,783 people. It is set in the Greater Boston area and is located approximately 16 miles west of downtown Boston, Massachusetts.

Lexington is the richest town in Massachusetts with a median household income of $170,924. That’s nearly $90,000 above the Massachusetts median household income of $66,866.

The most common occupations in Lexington are management occupations ($87,593), business and financial operations occupations ($77,433), and healthcare practitioners and technical occupations ($77,384).

Lexington has a high percentage of people who are employed in management positions and a high concentration of businesses – 26.5% of the population work in management, business, science, or the arts while just 3.9% are employed in sales and office occupations.

7. Concord – Per Capita Income of $72,046

The 10 Wealthiest Towns in Massachusetts - Most Expensively (8)

Concord is not only the wealthiest town in Massachusetts but one of the richest in the northeast as well. Statistics show that the median income for a household in Concord is $159,167. That’s higher than the Massachusetts median household income of $66,866. The median income for a family in Concord is $186,518.

As of the 2020 census, there were 17,669 people and 15,544 households residing in the town. The racial makeup was 89% White/Caucasian, 4% African American/Black, 2% Asian, and 4% Hispanic or Latino.

It is also one of the most educated towns in the country. Concord has four colleges and universities: North Central College, a private liberal arts institution; Concord Academy, a coeducational preparatory school; Marian Court College of Nursing; and Marian Court College of Pharmacy.

The town also has one of the best school systems in the state. All together, it makes for an educated population.

Related: The 10 Wealthiest Cities In New Jersey

8. Belmont – Per Capita Income of $70,876

The 10 Wealthiest Towns in Massachusetts - Most Expensively (9)

Belmont is the eighth wealthiest town in Massachusetts. It has a population of 26,123 and a median family income of $163,012 and the median household income of $141,849.

The town is located about 10 miles west of Boston and is considered part of the Greater Boston area. The average home price is $807,000 and the median rental price is $2,829 per month. has great restaurants and a good school system.

This town is known for its beautiful homes and there are some real estate agencies that specialize in helping you find a home in this area.

The most popular employment sectors in Belmont are professional services and health care. Some of the largest employers include Partners HealthCare System, Inc., Novartis Corporation, Lirio Group, and CareGroup Healthcare System.

9. Carlisle – Per Capita Income of $70,075

The 10 Wealthiest Towns in Massachusetts - Most Expensively (10)

Carlisle is one of the richest Towns in Massachusetts with the median income for households of $115,650 and the median family income of $145,409. This number is higher than the state average of $66,866 and $84,900 respectively.

Not only does Carlisle have a high median household income but also a low rate of poverty. Carlisle is among the most educated towns in Massachusetts. Of the 35.9% of adults that have a 4-year degree or higher, 34.5% have an advanced degree, which is the largest proportion of all towns in the state.

The per capita income in Carlisle in 2020 was $70,075, which is wealthy relative to Massachusetts and among the highest in the nation. The town also has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country, which suggests that jobs are readily available to its citizens.

Related: The 10 Wealthiest Cities In California

10. Wellesley – Per Capita Income of $69,734

The 10 Wealthiest Towns in Massachusetts - Most Expensively (11)

Wellesley is a town located in Norfolk County, bordering Boston and Newton has a population of nearly 28,747 people. Wellesley has a median family income of $141,563. The town also has a higher-than-average percentage of households with incomes of $125,833.

It also reports more than $7 billion in total assets for its residents. Out of the entire population, 6% percent live below the poverty line, which is well below the national average. Wellesley features a thriving business community with an excellent public school system and residents love the natural beauty it offers.

Real estate values are high in this area. It has a very high homeownership rate and a very low vacancy rate. This usually means that the demand for houses is higher than it would be if most people rented their homes by choice.

Wellesley has a higher than average tax burden on its citizens. It also has a higher than average cost of living compared to areas with similar median incomes. Property crime is quite low here, but violent crime is more common than it is across the nation as a whole.

The population of Wellesley is quite educated. It might be one of the biggest cities or towns in Massachusetts.

Last Word

Massachusetts is one of the most well-known states in the United States. Its history, cultural diversity, and many iconic landmarks have made Massachusetts a prime destination for those looking to relocate from other areas.

Location is another important aspect when you’re looking to relocate to a new area. You’ll want to look for towns that have great schools, are close to job opportunities, and offer access to other vital services.

Income levels are important to consider when choosing a place to live. Having access to good-paying jobs is key when it comes to affording housing and other necessities such as food and transportation. Incomes in this zip code are above average for both the state and the nation.

FAQs

What is the wealthiest part of Massachusetts? ›

Many of the state's wealthiest towns are located in the Boston suburbs. This area includes a high concentration of wealthy cities and towns just to the west of Boston, in the MetroWest area, and along the northern and southern coastal regions that have easy access to the city, in particular the North Shore of Boston.

What is the wealthiest suburb of Boston? ›

Located just 15 miles west of downtown Boston, Weston is not only one of the richest towns in Massachusetts but also in the nation, with a median household income of $206,250.

Is Newton MA a rich town? ›

Newton, Massachusetts, is one place where the median household income is more than double the national figure. The typical household in the area earns $164,607 a year, the 36th highest among all cities with sufficient data and 138.5% more than the national median.

Where do rich people live outside Boston? ›

Wellesley. If the fast-paced and cramped life of owning a multi-million dollar condo in Boston is tiring, then Wellesley might be the Boston suburb for you! Home to Wellesley and Babson Colleges, this city borders Newton and is among the wealthiest cities in America.

What is wealthiest town in MA? ›

Richest Towns in Massachusetts
  • The richest town in Massachusetts is Dover. ...
  • Weston is the second-richest town in Massachusetts. ...
  • In addition to being one of the wealthiest areas in Massachusetts, Wellesley is also one of the safest. ...
  • Carlisle is another one of the richest towns in Massachusetts.
Jan 5, 2023

Who is the richest family in Massachusetts? ›

The 7 Richest People in Massachusetts and How They Got Their Money
  • #7: Amos Hostetter, Jr. Worth $3.4 billion, the 79 year old TV pioneer made his money back in the 90s in cable television.
  • #6: Jim Davis. ...
  • #5: Robert Hale, Jr. ...
  • #4: Elizabeth Johnson. ...
  • #3: Edward Johnson IV. ...
  • #2: Robert Kraft. ...
  • #1: Abigail Johnson.
Jan 30, 2023

What is the wealthiest New England state? ›

In terms of per capita income, however, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire are also three of the wealthiest states, with Connecticut being ranked first in the U.S.

What are the top 5 richest cities? ›

Millionaires and Billionaires in the Wealthiest Cities
RankCityMillionaires
#1New York345,600
#2Tokyo304,900
#3San Francisco276,400
#4London272,400
17 more rows
Jan 4, 2023

What are top 10 highest paying cities? ›

16 U.S. Cities with the Highest Salary (Median)
1. San Jose, California ($75,770)9. Denver, CO ($53,060)
2. San Francisco, California ($64,990)10. San Diego, CA ($53,020)
3. Washington, D.C. ($64, 930)11. Los Angeles, CA ($53,000)
4. Boston, MA ($60,540)12. Baltimore, MD ($52,460)
5 more rows

What is the nicest town to live in in Massachusetts? ›

12 Best Cities in Massachusetts to Live and Visit
  1. Cambridge. A world leader in higher education, Cambridge is home to both Harvard and MIT; two of the most prestigious universities around.
  2. Boston. ...
  3. Worcester. ...
  4. Springfield. ...
  5. Provincetown. ...
  6. Lexington. ...
  7. Somerville. ...
  8. Salem. ...
Dec 26, 2022

What is the wealthiest town on Cape Cod? ›

However, some of the most exclusive areas of Cape Cod are appreciated for their extreme luxury and privacy.
  • Chatham. Chatham is said to offer one of the Cape's most scenic golf courses. ...
  • West Yarmouth. West Yarmouth, on the other hand, is home to the ultra-exclusive Great Island. ...
  • Sandwich. ...
  • Harwich. ...
  • Osterville.
Jan 6, 2021

Is Duxbury a rich town? ›

Dover and South Duxbury also top the list of Massachusetts' richest communities in terms of income concentration. In both places, about half the population has a household income of $150,000 or more.

What is the wealthiest town in America? ›

Loyola, Los Altos, California

Loyola, California, is the richest neighborhood in America. The average household income in Loyola is $326,069, with the median income a little lower at $246,563. The median listing price is $3,899,000. Loyola also borders Los Altos Hills, which is one of the richest towns in America.

What is the poorest city in Massachusetts? ›

Of the 154 towns in the state with available data, Ware ranks as the poorest. The typical Ware household earns just $43,783 a year, 50.8% less than the statewide median household income.

Where is the best place to live to get rich? ›

According to our results, California is the best place for the wealthy to live, with 6.2 luxury amenities per 100,000 people. California offers many luxury experiences for travelers and locals, a land of sunshine and celebrities.

What city is most like Boston? ›

  • Boston. Similarity. 187. Distance (mi.)
  • Philadelphia. ...
  • Bridgeport, Conn. ...
  • Chicago. 726.
  • San Francisco. 2,560.
  • Los Angeles. 2,448.
  • Washington. 215.
  • Hartford.
Apr 3, 2018

What is the top 1% in Massachusetts? ›

The top 1% of Massachusetts taxpayers earn almost $900,000 per year, giving the Bay State the second-highest income threshold in the nation to reach the top tier, new data shows.

Which city is known as the city of wealth? ›

Mumbai is the financial capital of India and is also home to the maximum number of wealth creators of the country with over 280 of the richest Indians residing in the city that is also known as the 'City of Dreams'.

Who are the 3 richest families in America? ›

The Walton family with $224.5 billion. The Mars family with $160 billion. The Koch family with $128.8 billion.

Who are the top 3 wealthiest families in America? ›

Family Matters
RankFamilyOrigin of Wealth
#1Walton FamilyWalmart
#2Koch FamilyKoch Industries
#3Mars FamilyMars Inc.
#4Cargill-MacMillan FamilyCargill Inc.
6 more rows
Mar 27, 2021

How many billionaires are there in MA? ›

Table
Rank by number of billionaires (9/15/20)State or federal districtBillionaires/ State's 10M pop. (7/19 census) (9/15/20)
5Massachusetts29.02
6Illinois13.42
7Connecticut39.27
8Georgia11.30
49 more rows

What is the richest town in New England? ›

New Canaan, Conn.

The famous Glass House was built in one of Connecticut's wealthiest towns. Bet you thought it was Old Greenwich, right? But New Canaan has the highest per capita income, $99,016, in the wealthiest county in the wealthiest state in the union.

What is the nicest state in New England? ›

New Hampshire is the best New England state to live in for its scenic beauty, access to outdoor activities, robust economy, and low overall tax burden. As a result, its diversity of different lifestyle choices is second to none in the northeast.

What are the five wealthiest states? ›

The richest states in the US are New York, Massachusetts, Washington, California, North Dakota, Connecticut, Delaware, Alaska, Nebraska, and Illinois. The richest state in America is New York, with a GDP per capita of $96,502.

What is the best part of Massachusetts to live in? ›

12 Best Cities in Massachusetts to Live and Visit
  1. Cambridge. A world leader in higher education, Cambridge is home to both Harvard and MIT; two of the most prestigious universities around.
  2. Boston. ...
  3. Worcester. ...
  4. Springfield. ...
  5. Provincetown. ...
  6. Lexington. ...
  7. Somerville. ...
  8. Salem. ...
Dec 26, 2022

What is the poorest part of Massachusetts? ›

Among the 64 places in Massachusetts with available data and populations of at least 25,000, Springfield ranks as the poorest. The typical Springfield household earns $41,571 a year, compared to the statewide median household income of $84,385.

Where do rich people live Massachusetts? ›

The richest town in Massachusetts is Dover. Situated along the southern banks of the Charles River, this city sits about 40 minutes from Boston and is a predominantly residential area.

What is the prettiest town in Massachusetts? ›

10 Most Beautiful Small Towns in Massachusetts
  • Rockport.
  • Westford.
  • Newburyport.
  • Rowe.
  • Oak Bluff.
  • Concord.
  • Provincetown.
  • Great Barrington.

Where is the safest city in Massachusetts? ›

Andover was named the third-safest community in the country and safest in Massachusetts. Arlington, Needham, and North Andover also cracked the top 15.

What is America's wealthiest town? ›

Loyola, Los Altos, California

Loyola, California, is the richest neighborhood in America. The average household income in Loyola is $326,069, with the median income a little lower at $246,563. The median listing price is $3,899,000.

What are the 5 richest cities? ›

The richest cities in America are those with the highest median household incomes. Topping the list is San Francisco, followed by San Jose, Washington D.C., and New York City. Rounding out the top 10 are Boston, Seattle, Honolulu, Los Angeles, and San Diego.

What city in Massachusetts has the lowest cost of living? ›

Whether you're hoping to rent or buy a home, check out these five most affordable places to live in Massachusetts!
  • Adams.
  • Easthampton.
  • New Bedford.
  • Spencer.
  • Westfield.
Dec 19, 2022

What is a good salary in Massachusetts? ›

Most salaries in Massachusetts range between $46,845 (25th percentile) to $83,117 (75th percentile) annually. Of course, salaries will vary depending on yor occupation, experience, and many other factors.

What are the 5 poorest states? ›

The ten poorest states in the US in terms of poverty rate are Mississippi, Louisiana, New Mexico, West Virginia, Arkansas, Alabama, Kentucky, Oklahoma, Georgia, and South Carolina – as well as the District of Columbia.

What is the most expensive town in Martha's Vineyard? ›

Seven miles off the shore of Cape Cod in Massachusetts, Martha's Vineyard is a roughly triangular-shaped, 96-square-mile Atlantic Ocean island with six towns. One of these communities is Chilmark, whose 02535 ZIP Code has the priciest residential real estate in all of New England, according to Realtor.com.

How many millionaires live in Massachusetts? ›

West Virginia (0.09%), Mississippi (0.12%) and New Mexico (0.14%) had the lowest. Massachusetts also saw some of the largest growth in sheer number of millionaires between 2015 and 2020, with 6,740. Only Washington, Texas, Florida and California added more.

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