Out of all the suburbs in Massachusetts, Brockton was the best-ranked for first-time homebuyers, according to a new study published on Today’s Homeowners.
The study looked at 580 suburbs outside 78 of the U.S.’s largest cities, and placed Brockton at number 312, the highest ranked Massachusetts suburb on the list.
Rankings were based on housing affordability, inventory (homes for sale and median days on the housing market), job market, and livability metrics (climate risk, entertainment, dining), the study said.
According to Redfin, Brockton’s housing market is quite competitive, with homes receiving an average of six offers and selling in about 20 days. The median sale price is $480,000 and 74.6% of homes are sold for above asking price.
Brockton’s affordability and proximity to Boston — less than an hour by car or public transportation — is a huge draw for first-time homeowners. There’s also plenty to enjoy within the city limits, several green spaces like D.W. Field Park, historic homes and museums, and a diverse food scene.
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The lowest ranked suburbs in Massachusetts for first-time homebuyers included Cambridge at number 557, Somerville at number 542, and Lawrence at number 531.