Needham, MA

Needham – A Commuter’s Gem with Small-Town Charm

Located just 11 miles southwest of Boston, Needham is a thriving community of approximately 32,000 residents. Known as a “commuter town,” it offers easy access to the city via four MBTA commuter rail stops and major highways, making it a favorite for professionals working in Boston.

Community & Economy

As of 2024, Needham boasts a median household income of $223,134 and a median home value of $1,117,769. While historically a post-WWII light industrial hub, its northern section now attracts high-tech companies like TripAdvisor, PTC, and IDG—bringing innovation and opportunity closer to home.

Education Excellence

Needham is widely recognized for its outstanding public schools:

• High School – Recently renovated Needham High School
• Middle Schools – William F. Pollard (Grades 7–8) and High Rock (Grade 6)
• Elementary Schools – John Eliot, Sunita Williams (named after the NASA astronaut), William Mitchell, Newman, and Broadmeadow

The town also holds the nation’s second-longest-running high school football rivalry—Needham vs. Wellesley—dating back to 1882.

Downtown & Dining

Needham’s vibrant downtown offers everything from boutique shopping to global cuisine:

• Shops – Closet Exchange for upscale consignment fashion, WOW for unique women’s clothing
• Restaurants – Little Spoons for lunch, Masala Art for Indian fare, and the ever-popular Blue on Highland for modern American dishes (arrive early!).

Recreation & Nature

From the Rosemary Recreation Complex Pool in the summer to kayaking on the Charles River, Needham is full of outdoor fun. The Needham Town Forest spans 200 acres with 3.5 miles of shaded trails through oak, maple, and pine—perfect for a peaceful walk or family adventure.

Why Home Buyers Choose Needham

Needham combines excellent schools, safety, and a strong community feel with abundant recreation and amenities. While the cost of living is high—comparable to other sought-after Greater Boston suburbs—many find the quality of life well worth the investment.