Living in Sandwich, MA (2025) | Real Estate, Lifestyle & Neighborhood Guide

by Linda Whitcomb

Living in Sandwich, MA (2025): Cape Cod's Most Historic and Scenic Town

Explore Sandwich—Cape Cod’s oldest town—where history meets beachside living, nature trails, and a close-knit community vibe.

Founded in 1639, Sandwich, Massachusetts, blends colonial charm with coastal serenity. Whether you're drawn by its quiet neighborhoods, beach access, vibrant arts scene, or proximity to Boston, Sandwich offers something for everyone—from retirees to growing families to remote professionals seeking quality of life.

Community & Lifestyle

  • Atmosphere: Quaint, peaceful, and neighborly. Residents enjoy a traditional New England downtown, community events, and preserved landscapes.
  • Historic Appeal: Walk among sea captain homes, visit the Dexter Grist Mill, Heritage Museums & Gardens, and explore Sandwich's 17th-century roots.
  • Outdoor Living: Beaches, bog trails, the Sandwich Boardwalk, and nature preserves define weekend recreation.
  • Dining: From seafood classics at Fishermen’s View and Seafood Sam’s to local coffee at Café Chew.
  • Schools: Served by Sandwich Public Schools—respected for small class sizes and involved parent community.

Housing Market & Real Estate (July 2025)

Metric Value / Range
Median Sold Price $740,000
Median Listing Price $769,500
Typical Home Value $666,170
Price per Sq Ft $417–$469
Market Type Seller’s Market
Median Days on Market 38 days

Typical Home Sizes & Sample Listings

Beds Baths Sq Ft Price Description
2 1 1,024 $849,000 Classic cottage, walk to beach
4 2 1,561 $795,000 Family home near Main Street
4 2 2,000–3,000 $850,000–$950,000 Newer builds, larger lots

Market Trends: Home values in Sandwich continue to rise steadily, up 5% YoY. 67% of listings sell within 30 days.

Demographics

Metric 2025 Value
Population 20,222
Median Age 50.8–57.8 years
Median Household Income $108,583–$118,799
Average Household Income $136,472
Homeownership Rate 78.3%
Poverty Rate 4.7–6.5%
Race & Ethnicity 91–94% White, 2% Asian, others multiracial/Black/Hispanic

Profile: Sandwich’s population skews older, with 27% aged 65+. High education rates and income levels define a stable, established community.

Cost of Living & Quality of Life

  • Cost Index: ~31% above national average, largely due to housing costs and property taxes.
  • Safety: Crime rates are 54% lower than the state average.
  • Commute: ~26 min avg; easy access to Boston via Sagamore Bridge.
  • Climate: Mild summers (~79°F), cold winters, ~47 in/year rainfall.
  • Seasonal Flow: Summer population boom; traffic increases on Route 6 and 6A.

Things to Do & Notable Attractions

  • Sandwich Boardwalk: Famous historic boardwalk through marshes to the beach.
  • Heritage Museums & Gardens: Seasonal gardens, art, and antique collections on 100 acres.
  • Sandy Neck & Scusset Beach: Ideal for swimming, hiking, and 4WD adventures.
  • Sandwich Glass Museum: Blown glass demos and exhibits celebrating Sandwich’s legacy.
  • Main Street Downtown: Antiques, farmer’s markets, coffee shops, and galleries.

Pros & Cons of Living in Sandwich

Pros

  • Historic charm with preserved architecture and walkability
  • Safe, community-centered environment
  • Access to Cape Cod Canal, Boston, and top beaches
  • Strong public schools, well-maintained infrastructure

Cons

  • Higher home prices than national average
  • Tourism-related traffic during summer
  • Fewer year-round amenities for younger residents
  • Highest property tax rate on Cape Cod is in Sandwich, MA at $10.57 per $1,000 of valuation

Final Takeaway

Living in Sandwich, MA, means being surrounded by history, nature, and a strong sense of community. It’s ideal for those who value quiet charm, outdoor lifestyle, and Cape Cod access—whether as a forever home, weekend escape, or retirement retreat.

Data current as of July 2025 and subject to change.

GET MORE INFORMATION

Linda Whitcomb

Linda Whitcomb

Agent | License ID: 63285

+1(508) 737-4457

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