Nonantum
Nonantum — affectionately known as 'The Lake' by locals — is Newton's most culturally distinctive village, celebrated for its vibrant Italian-American heritage, tight-knit community bonds, and exceptional local dining. With Newton's most accessible price point at a median of $825,000, Nonantum offers a unique blend of cultural richness, community warmth, and proximity to both Boston and Watertown that no other Newton village can match.
$825,000
Median Price
$400K – $1.5M
Price Range
70
Walk Score
8/10
School Rating
15 min by car
Commute to Boston
Newton, MA
Location
What Is Nonantum Like?
Nonantum stands apart from every other Newton village. Where most of Newton projects New England suburban refinement, Nonantum pulses with working-class pride, cultural identity, and an Italian-American heritage that dates back generations. The neighborhood is known locally as 'The Lake,' a reference to the Silver Lake area that has long been the community's heart. The annual Nonantum Christmas Festival and the village's deep traditions create a communal bond rare in any suburb. The streets are lined with well-maintained homes on compact lots — Cape Cods, bungalows, multi-family properties, and ranches predominate. Nonantum's location on Newton's eastern edge means proximity to Watertown, the Charles River, and a very quick commute to Boston via the Mass Turnpike or local roads. Despite its more modest appearance compared to Newton's wealthier villages, Nonantum delivers the same Newton public school access, city services, and safety that commands premium prices elsewhere. The dining scene, anchored by Italian bakeries and restaurants, is a draw from across Newton and beyond. For buyers seeking community warmth, cultural character, and Newton's school district at the most accessible price point, Nonantum is unbeatable.
What Are Home Prices in Nonantum?
Nonantum offers Newton's most affordable housing with a median price of approximately $825,000. Prices range from around $400,000 for condos and smaller properties to $1.5 million for larger or renovated homes. The housing stock features Cape Cods, bungalows, multi-family homes, and ranches on compact lots. Multi-family properties are relatively common, offering both owner-occupant affordability and investment opportunities. The market is active, with Nonantum increasingly attracting young families and first-time buyers priced out of Boston but wanting excellent schools. Homes average 14-20 days on market, and appreciation has been strong at 5-7% as the village gains recognition for its value proposition.
What Are the Schools Like in Nonantum?
Nonantum students attend Horace Mann Elementary School and progress through Newton's school system to Newton North High School. Newton North is consistently ranked among Massachusetts' best public high schools, with extensive AP courses, diverse student body, competitive athletics, and strong college placement. The fact that Nonantum families have access to the same Newton Public Schools as families in Chestnut Hill — at a fraction of the real estate cost — is one of the village's most compelling advantages for education-focused buyers.
Where to Eat and Shop in Nonantum?
Nonantum's Italian-American culinary heritage is a genuine asset. Local bakeries like Quebrada Baking Co. and Italian restaurants draw food lovers from across Newton. The neighborhood has a modest commercial area with everyday services and businesses. Proximity to Watertown (Star Market, Target, and diverse dining) adds shopping convenience. Arsenal Yards in Watertown and the Watertown Mall are short drives away. While Nonantum doesn't have a large village center, its authentic food scene and convenient access to nearby commercial areas serve residents well.
Parks & Recreation in Nonantum
Nonantum benefits from its proximity to the Charles River for walking and biking trails. The Newton Community Center, located in Nonantum, offers extensive recreation programs including fitness, swimming, and youth activities. Silver Lake, while not a swimming destination, adds to the neighborhood's character. Several neighborhood playgrounds and parks serve families. The annual Nonantum Christmas Festival and other community events are highlights of village life, fostering the tight-knit bonds that define the neighborhood.
How Do You Get Around Nonantum?
Nonantum offers excellent commuting convenience. The Massachusetts Turnpike is easily accessible, providing a 15-minute drive to downtown Boston. Local roads connect to Watertown and Cambridge for car commuters. Express bus service to Boston is available from nearby Newton Corner. The MBTA 57 bus route provides connections to the Green Line. The walk score of 70 reflects moderate walkability — local businesses and restaurants are accessible on foot, and proximity to Watertown adds walkable commercial options on the eastern edge.
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Neighborhood Highlights
- ✓Italian-American heritage
- ✓Local dining
- ✓Tight-knit community
- ✓Affordable
Frequently Asked Questions
Nonantum FAQ
What is Nonantum in Newton like?
Nonantum, known as 'The Lake,' is Newton's most culturally distinctive village, celebrated for its Italian-American heritage, tight-knit community, and excellent local dining. It offers Newton's most affordable prices while delivering the same top-rated schools.
What are home prices in Nonantum?
Nonantum has Newton's most affordable housing with a median price of $825,000. Condos start around $400,000, and single-family homes range up to $1.5 million. Multi-family properties offer investment opportunities.
Why is Nonantum called 'The Lake'?
Nonantum's nickname 'The Lake' comes from the Silver Lake area that has been the community's heart for generations. The name reflects the deep local identity and pride that sets Nonantum apart from Newton's other villages.
What schools serve Nonantum?
Nonantum students attend Horace Mann Elementary and progress to Newton North High School — one of Massachusetts' top public high schools. Families get Newton's celebrated school district at the city's most accessible price point.
How do you commute from Nonantum to Boston?
Nonantum offers a quick 15-minute drive to Boston via the Mass Turnpike. Express buses serve nearby Newton Corner, and the 57 bus connects to the Green Line. Local roads also reach Watertown and Cambridge easily.
What restaurants are in Nonantum?
Nonantum's Italian-American culinary heritage shines through local bakeries like Quebrada Baking Co. and authentic Italian restaurants that draw food lovers from across Newton. The dining scene reflects the village's cultural character.
Is Nonantum a good value in Newton?
Nonantum is arguably Newton's best value: the same top-rated schools, city services, and safety as Chestnut Hill at less than half the median price. It's ideal for buyers who prioritize schools and community over large lots.
What is the Nonantum community like?
Nonantum has Newton's strongest community bonds, rooted in Italian-American heritage. The annual Christmas Festival, active community center, and neighborhood traditions create a warmth and connection rare in any suburb.
What types of homes are in Nonantum?
Nonantum features Cape Cods, bungalows, multi-family homes, and ranches on compact lots. The housing is more modest than Newton's wealthier villages but well-maintained, with prices reflecting the smaller lot sizes.
Is Nonantum good for first-time homebuyers?
Nonantum is Newton's most accessible village for first-time buyers, with condos from $400,000 and strong appreciation of 5-7%. Buyers get Newton's school district, Boston proximity, and vibrant community character at the lowest entry point.