By Molly Campbell Palmer, Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty
📍 54 Central Street, Wellesley, MA 02482 | 📞 508-269-0002 | 🌐 mollycampbellpalmer.com
The $1.5 Million Question
If you’re house-hunting in the Massachusetts real estate market, you’ve probably wondered:
“How far does $1.5 million go in the Boston suburbs?”
The answer depends on where you’re looking and how you want to live.
Below, I’ve broken down real 2025 sale data from Wellesley, Needham, and Weston—three of Boston’s most coveted towns—to show what $1.5 million buys, plus current listings you can tour right now.
🏡 Wellesley, MA — Walkable Luxury & Boutique Appeal
Average Sale Price / Square Foot (2025): ~$662
$1.5 M Buys ≈ 2,265 SF ($1,500,000 ÷ $662)
Typical Style: Renovated Colonial or Cape near schools + commuter rail
Signature Appeal: Historic architecture, vibrant downtown, and consistently high Boston Magazine school rankings 2025
📍 Real Example:
6 Saunders Terrace, Wellesley — sold for $1,500,000, ~1,600 SF near Bates Elementary. A beautifully updated home in a walkable neighborhood where lifestyle, charm, and location outweigh raw square footage.
✨ Why buyers love it: Wellesley offers boutique luxury, prestige, and long-term appreciation. Neighborhoods like Cliff Estates, Wellesley Farms, and Dana Hall are especially desirable for buyers investing in both lifestyle and equity.
Available Now:
32 Wall Street, Wellesley — an active listing showcasing Wellesley’s timeless style with room to personalize. Ideal if you’re planning a home addition Wellesley MA or exploring home remodeling Wellesley with a trusted home addition contractor Wellesley MA.
🛝 Needham, MA — Modern Comfort & Family-Focused Living
Average Sale Price / Square Foot (2025): ~$550
$1.5 M Buys ≈ 2,727 SF ($1,500,000 ÷ $550)
Typical Style: Newer Colonial or expanded Ranch
Signature Appeal: Modern construction, family-friendly neighborhoods, and easy commutes to Boston
📍 Real Example:
31 Standish Road, Needham — sold for $1,525,000, ~2,700 SF. This light-filled Colonial offers open-concept living, a modern kitchen, and a coveted location near Needham Heights shops and train.
✨ Why buyers love it: Needham delivers more space and newer builds for the price — perfect for growing families or buyers relocating from Boston or Cambridge.
Available Now:
15 Mackintosh Avenue, Needham — a standout example of what’s currently on the market. With room to expand, it’s a smart choice for anyone considering residential remodeling Wellesley MA or the surrounding area to create their dream home.
🌳 Weston, MA — Space, Privacy & Refined Tranquility
Average Sale Price / Square Foot (2025): ~$588
$1.5 M Buys ≈ 2,551 SF ($1,500,000 ÷ $588)
Typical Style: Mid-century or smaller estate on 1 + acre
Signature Appeal: Larger lots, top schools, and peaceful suburban living within 20 minutes of Boston
📍 Real Example:
7 Highland Street, Weston — sold for $1,525,000, ~2,520 SF. This refined residence combines modern updates with classic New England style on a private lot surrounded by trees.
✨ Why buyers love it: Weston is synonymous with privacy, land, and prestige. Buyers gain space without sacrificing proximity to the city.
Available Now:
426 Conant Road, Weston — a rare active listing in this price range. Perfect for buyers who value acreage and design flexibility and may be planning a home renovation Wellesley MA style refresh to customize their own Weston retreat.
📊 At-a-Glance Comparison
| Town | Avg $/SF | Approx SF at $1.5 M | Signature Appeal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wellesley | $662 | ~2,265 SF | Walkable luxury + prestige |
| Needham | $550 | ~2,727 SF | Modern comfort + space |
| Weston | $588 | ~2,551 SF | Privacy + land + schools |
💡 Three suburbs. One budget. Distinct versions of luxury living in the Massachusetts real estate market.
🧭 Which Town Fits Your Lifestyle?
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Wellesley: Walkable luxury and strong investment potential. Ideal if you’re planning a home addition Wellesley or Wellesley home remodeling project to boost value in established neighborhoods like Cliff Estates and Wellesley Farms.
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Needham: More square footage and modern comfort with a family-friendly feel.
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Weston: Serene landscapes and top-tier schools for those prioritizing privacy and refined living.
Each town offers unique benefits for buyers and sellers alike — from strong resale demand to custom home remodeling Wellesley MA potential that builds equity over time.
📞 Let’s Find Your Perfect Suburban Fit
Whether you’re searching for a turnkey home, planning a custom home addition Wellesley MA, or exploring investment opportunities across Boston’s western suburbs, I’d love to help.
📲 Molly Campbell Palmer
Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty
📍 54 Central Street, Wellesley, MA 02482
📞 508-269-0002
🌐 mollycampbellpalmer.com
📧 [email protected]
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