Newton Centre
Newton Centre is the vibrant cultural and commercial heart of Newton, Massachusetts — a walkable village with tree-lined streets, acclaimed restaurants, boutique shops, and direct Green Line access to Boston. It features stunning Victorian, Colonial, and contemporary homes and is widely considered one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Greater Boston for families and professionals alike.
$1,450,000
Median Price
$650K – $4M+
Price Range
78
Walk Score
9/10
School Rating
25 min via Green Line D
Commute to Boston
Newton, MA
Location
What Is Newton Centre Like?
Newton Centre sits at the geographic and cultural center of Newton, anchored by its thriving village center at the intersection of Centre and Langley Road. The neighborhood radiates outward from this hub with streets lined by mature trees, diverse architectural styles, and an unmistakable sense of community pride. Crystal Lake provides a scenic focal point, while the Green Line D branch (Newton Centre stop) offers a convenient commute to Boston's Longwood Medical Area, Kenmore Square, and downtown in approximately 25 minutes. The housing stock ranges from grand Victorian-era homes and stately Colonials to sleek modern new construction, with median prices around $1.45 million. Newton Centre attracts families drawn to its exceptional public schools (consistently rated 9-10/10), professionals who value the Green Line commute, and anyone seeking a vibrant, walkable community with a small-town feel and big-city access.
What Are Home Prices in Newton Centre?
Newton Centre is one of Newton's most competitive real estate markets. The median home price is approximately $1,450,000, with homes ranging from $650K condos to $4M+ single-family estates. Properties typically spend just 10-14 days on market, and multiple-offer situations are common, especially for well-priced homes near the village center or Green Line stop. The housing stock includes Victorian-era homes, classic New England Colonials, Craftsman bungalows, and modern new construction. Condo options are available in converted properties and newer developments. Year-over-year appreciation has averaged 5-7%, making Newton Centre a strong long-term investment.
What Are the Schools Like in Newton Centre?
Newton Centre is served by some of Massachusetts' top-rated public schools. Elementary students attend Horace Mann Elementary or Countryside Elementary, both rated 9/10 or higher. Students then move to F.A. Day Middle School and Newton North High School, which is consistently ranked among the top public high schools in the state. Newton North offers extensive AP courses, competitive athletics, and award-winning performing arts programs. Private school options in the area include The Fessenden School, Mount Alvernia Academy, and several others. Boston College is also nearby for higher education.
Where to Eat and Shop in Newton Centre?
The Newton Centre village center offers an exceptional mix of dining and retail. Popular restaurants include Johnny's Luncheonette (a beloved brunch spot), Sycamore (farm-to-table dining), and Dunn Gaherin's (a neighborhood pub institution). The village features independent bookshops, boutiques, a year-round farmers market, and everyday services. For larger shopping, The Street Chestnut Hill and Needham Street retail corridor are minutes away.
Parks & Recreation in Newton Centre
Crystal Lake is Newton Centre's crown jewel — a scenic swimming and picnicking destination in summer and a picturesque winter landscape. Cold Spring Park offers extensive trails for walking, running, and cross-country skiing. The Newton Centre Playground and multiple pocket parks provide play areas for children. The area also has excellent access to the Charles River bike path and DCR recreational areas.
How Do You Get Around Newton Centre?
Newton Centre benefits from excellent public transit via the MBTA Green Line D branch (Newton Centre stop), providing service to Boston in approximately 25 minutes. Express bus routes serve Newton Corner and downtown Boston. By car, Route 9 and the Massachusetts Turnpike provide easy highway access. The neighborhood's walk score of 78 reflects its highly walkable village center, where most daily errands can be completed on foot.
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Neighborhood Highlights
- ✓Green Line D Branch
- ✓Crystal Lake
- ✓Newton Centre Village
- ✓Top-rated schools
Frequently Asked Questions
Newton Centre FAQ
What is Newton Centre like?
Newton Centre is a vibrant, walkable village in the heart of Newton, MA, known for its tree-lined streets, excellent restaurants, boutique shops, Green Line access to Boston, and top-rated public schools. It's one of Greater Boston's most desirable neighborhoods for families and professionals.
What are home prices in Newton Centre?
The median home price in Newton Centre is approximately $1,450,000. Prices range from around $650,000 for condos to over $4 million for larger single-family homes. The market is highly competitive with homes typically selling in 10-14 days.
What are the best schools in Newton Centre?
Newton Centre is served by Horace Mann and Countryside Elementary Schools (rated 9-10/10), F.A. Day Middle School, and Newton North High School — one of Massachusetts' top-ranked public high schools with extensive AP courses and award-winning programs.
How do you commute from Newton Centre to Boston?
The MBTA Green Line D branch (Newton Centre stop) provides direct service to Boston in about 25 minutes, reaching Longwood Medical Area, Kenmore Square, and downtown. Express bus routes and the Massachusetts Turnpike offer additional options.
Is Newton Centre walkable?
Yes, Newton Centre has a walk score of 78, making it one of Newton's most walkable villages. The village center features restaurants, shops, a farmers market, and services all within walking distance of residential areas.
What types of homes are in Newton Centre?
Newton Centre features a diverse mix of Victorian-era homes, classic New England Colonials, Craftsman bungalows, and modern new construction. Condo options include converted properties and newer developments. Lot sizes range from compact village lots to generous half-acre parcels.
What are the best restaurants in Newton Centre?
Popular Newton Centre restaurants include Johnny's Luncheonette (brunch), Sycamore (farm-to-table), and Dunn Gaherin's (pub). The village center has a thriving dining scene with options ranging from casual to upscale.
Is Newton Centre a good place to raise a family?
Newton Centre is widely considered one of Greater Boston's best family neighborhoods, thanks to top-rated schools, safe tree-lined streets, Crystal Lake recreation, active community programs, and a walkable village center with family-friendly amenities.
How competitive is the Newton Centre real estate market?
Newton Centre's market is very competitive. Homes average just 10-14 days on market, multiple offers are common, and year-over-year appreciation has averaged 5-7%. Working with an experienced local agent is essential for success.
What is Crystal Lake in Newton Centre?
Crystal Lake is a scenic freshwater lake in Newton Centre that serves as a popular summer swimming and picnicking destination for residents. It's surrounded by parkland and is a beloved community gathering spot.