Why Live in Worcester
Worcester's cultural scene centers around the Worcester Art Museum, home to 38,000 works spanning five millennia of artistic achievement. The Hanover Theatre hosts Broadway productions and concerts in its meticulously restored venue, while Mechanics Hall draws music lovers with its renowned acoustics. Families gravitate to the EcoTarium's interactive science exhibits and Broad Meadow Brook, New England's largest urban wildlife sanctuary. Sports fans enjoy Worcester Red Sox games at Polar Park and hockey at the DCU Center. The dining landscape features acclaimed establishments like Armsby Abbey, known for craft beers and seasonal fare, and The Sole Proprietor's fresh seafood and extensive wine selection.
The real estate market presents varied options across distinct neighborhoods. The median single family home price stands at $449,900, with areas like Salisbury Street commanding median prices of $640,000 and Shrewsbury Street homes at $334,300. Condominiums provide more affordable entry points, with median prices of $208,000 for one bedroom units and $306,000 for two bedrooms. The median townhouse price is $422,500.
Worcester's property tax rate is 1.33%, which falls between Boston's 0.67% and Springfield's 1.57%. Massachusetts maintains a 5% state income tax rate and 6.25% sales tax. The city connects to Boston via I-290 and regular commuter rail service, with a typical one hour commute. Educational options include highly rated public schools like Calvin Coolidge Elementary and private institutions such as Worcester Academy and Bancroft School, both rated A+. The presence of Clark University, College of the Holy Cross, and Worcester Polytechnic Institute creates a strong academic environment. Major employers include UMass Memorial Health Care, Saint Vincent Hospital, and numerous biotechnology companies.
Home Trends in Worcester, MA
On average, homes in Worcester, MA sell after 23 days on the market compared to the national average of 50 days. The median sale price for homes in Worcester, MA over the last 12 months is $420,000, up 6% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Median Sale Price
$420,000
Median Single Family Sale Price
$445,000
Median Townhouse Sale Price
$422,500
Median 2 Bedroom Sale Price
$300,500
Median 1 Bedroom Sale Price
$208,000
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$286
Number of Homes for Sale
136
Last 12 months Home Sales
1,089
Median List Price
$419,900
Median Change From 1st List Price
0%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
6%