Newton, MA

Why People Choose Newton

Located just outside of Boston, Newton is a vibrant suburban city made up of 13 distinctive villages: Newton Centre, Newton Highlands, Newtonville, West Newton, Thompsonville, Nonantum, Chestnut Hill, Waban, Newton Corner, Upper Falls, Lower Falls, Auburndale, and Oak Hill. Each of these villages has its own charm and character. The Baker Team can help you understand the differences.

Known for its top-rated public schools, tree-lined streets, and historic homes, Newton is a highly sought-after community for families, professionals, and academics alike. Newton is ideally situated for commuting into Boston and Cambridge. With excellent commuter rail, Green Line “T”, and highway access, abundant parks, and a strong sense of community, Newton combines suburban tranquility with urban convenience.

Whether buyers want the classic New England charm of a Victorian or a sleek modern home, Newton offers a fit for nearly every lifestyle.

Community & Economy

Newton is home to roughly 89,000 residents, with a median household income around $190,000. Its median single-family home sale price was $1.85 million as of 2025. Most of the villages have their own retail district and identity. This gives buyers a wide range of neighborhood styles to choose from within a single city.

Education

• Newton North and Newton South High Schools both consistently rank among the top high schools in Massachusetts
• A well-regarded district with 15 elementary schools and 4 middle schools feeding into 2 high schools, with strong academics, arts, athletics, and STEM programs, as well as robust services for special education students
• Proximity to major colleges and universities including Boston College, Boston University, Northeastern, MIT, Harvard, and Babson
• Highly ranked public school system frequently cited as a top reason families relocate to Newton

Recreation & Nature

Newton offers extensive green space, including Cold Spring Park, Crystal Lake, Hemlock Gorge Reservation, and dozens of neighborhood parks and playgrounds. The Charles River borders the city, offering scenic riverside paths for walking, running, and cycling.

Resident Favorites

Newton Centre

Restaurants and Cafes

• Thistle & Leek – A cozy little gastropub that feels like a trip to London.
• Jinny's – Wood-fired pizzas with serious neighborhood charm.
• Sushico – Fresh, creative rolls in a sleek little spot.
• Tartufo – A taste of the Italian coast since 2004.
• Sycamore – Rustic, seasonal, and quietly one of Newton's best.
• Johnny's Luncheonette – A retro diner everyone grew up loving.
• Farmstead Table – Homey, French-touched farm-to-table cooking.
• 4 Spoons – Small, cozy, and full of pad Thai fans.
• Salt Patisserie – French-Brazilian pastries worth the sugar rush.
• Tatte Bakery and Cafe – Cozy pastries and coffee, done right.
• Tous Les Jour – A whole world of fresh-baked goodies.
• Bakey – Warm babka, baked all day long.
• Luna's Cakes and Coffee – Sisters, cake, and a whole lot of heart.

Retail Shops

• Tess – Curated style with a personal touch.
• Mosher's Men's Store – Sharp tailoring, family-run since 1921.
• Ceremony Bridal – Dreamy designer gowns for modern brides.
• Folklorica Jewelry – A Newton favorite for four decades running.
• Pink Domino – Where the tween wardrobe comes together.

Newton Highlands

Restaurants and Cafes

• Buttonwood – Rustic comfort food with a great little bar.
• Grape Leaf – Gyros and baklava done the right way.
• Otake Sushi Bistro – Fresh sushi without the fuss.
• O'Hara's Food & Spirits – A warm Irish pub since 1985.
• Lakon Paris – Croissants worth waking up early for.
• Cacao – Rich hot chocolate and cozy vibes.

Retail Shops

• Sharon Samuel(s) – A neighborhood boutique staple for 15+ years.
• Covet and Lou – Indie fashion, thoughtfully curated.
• Adamas Jewelers – Custom fine jewelry made with care.

Newtonville

Restaurants and Cafes

• Mida – Cozy Italian with pizza and pasta done well.
• Fuji – Sushi steps from the commuter rail.
• Aji – A hidden gem for creative rolls.
• de la Posta – Wood-fired pies with real craftsmanship.
• Fiorella's – A neighborhood favorite since 2000.
• George Howell Coffee – Beloved local roast, brewed to perfection.
• Rancatore Ice Cream – Small-batch scoops worth the trip.

West Newton

Restaurants

• Bluebird Bar – Oysters, cocktails, and easy charm.
• Sweet Tomatoes Pizza – A neighborhood slice institution since 1998.

Retail Shops

• Hilliard's Candy – Century-old chocolate, newly home in West Newton.

West Newton Cinema featuring independent films

• West Newton Cinema – A historic theater with real heart.

Chestnut Hill

Chestnut Hill Malls and The Street

• Wheat – Curated, elevated style in one pretty shop.
• Vince – Effortless basics, done beautifully.
• Todd Snyder – Menswear with a modern edge.
• Arc'teryx – Gear built for the outdoors.
• Brilliant Earth Jewelry – Ethically sourced sparkle.

Eateries and Cafes

• Aquitaine – A little slice of Paris, 20+ years running.
• Capital Grille – Classic steakhouse polish.
• Blue Bottle Coffee – Coffee, done thoughtfully.
• Mia's Brooklyn Bakery – Brooklyn cake, Chestnut Hill charm.