Living in Chatham, MA (2025) | Real Estate, Lifestyle, & Housing Market Guide
Discover what it’s like to live in one of Cape Cod’s most prestigious coastal communities—where historic charm meets upscale seaside living.
Welcome to Chatham
Located on the “elbow” of Cape Cod, Chatham, Massachusetts is a postcard-worthy seaside town that blends New England charm with a luxurious yet down-to-earth lifestyle. From iconic lighthouses and white sand beaches to a walkable downtown filled with boutiques and galleries, it’s easy to see why this is one of the Cape’s most desirable places to live.
Community & Lifestyle
- Population: About 6,600 year-round residents, swelling to 20,000+ in summer
- Atmosphere: Historic harbors, shingled homes, seaside serenity, and a vibrant Main Street
- Outdoor Life: 66 miles of coastline, kayaking, beaches, wildlife refuge, and hiking trails
- Events: Fourth of July Parade, weekly band concerts, Christmas Stroll, and Chatham A’s baseball
- Local Flavor: Fishing boats, clam shacks, art galleries, and farm-to-table dining
Real Estate & Housing Market (July 2025)
Chatham’s real estate market is known for its scenic beauty, historic homes, and premium pricing. From antique captain’s houses to multi-million-dollar waterfront estates, Chatham offers quintessential Cape Cod architecture and investment-worthy value.
| Statistic | Value (July 2025) |
|---|---|
| Median List Price | $2,300,000 |
| Median Sale Price | $1,370,000–$1,900,000 |
| Median Price/Sq Ft | $711–$831 |
| Avg. Days on Market | 23–107 |
| 4-Bedroom Price Range | $875,000–$4,495,000 |
| Typical 4BR Sq Ft Range | ~2,000–4,900 |
Sample 4-Bedroom Listings
| Address/Neighborhood | Price | Beds | Baths | Sq Ft |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 470 Riverview Dr | $875,000 | 4 | 3 | 2,353 |
| 54 Rowland Dr (North Chatham) | $1,795,000 | 4 | 5 | 3,265 |
| 174 Seapine Rd | $2,695,000 | 4 | 4 | 3,834 |
| 26 Seaview St | $2,995,000 | 4 | 4 | 3,899 |
| 2515 Main St (South Chatham) | $4,199,900 | 4 | 6 | 4,908 |
Note: Many homes sell below list, but competition is fierce for well-located or turnkey properties. Cash and pre-approval are common in this market.
Demographics
| Category | Chatham Value (2025) |
|---|---|
| Population | 6,649 |
| Median Age | 64–67 |
| % Age 65+ | 47.8% |
| Median Household Income | $82,269–$86,674 |
| % White | 90–99% |
| Owner-Occupied Households | 89% |
| Seasonal Use Homes | ~55% |
Schools & Services
- Public Schools: Part of Monomoy Regional School District; high school located in nearby Harwich
- Healthcare: Clinics and urgent care in town; major hospital located in Hyannis
- Transportation: 90 miles from Boston; no rail access; closest shuttle is in Hyannis
Shopping, Dining & Culture
Chatham’s walkable Main Street features a mix of high-end boutiques, art galleries, cozy cafés, and locally loved restaurants. The town is active year-round with live music, art shows, holiday festivals, and pop-up markets.
Outdoor Recreation
- Beaches: Lighthouse Beach, Harding’s Beach, Ridgevale Beach
- Parks & Trails: Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge, Old Colony Rail Trail
- On the Water: Boating, sailing, paddleboarding, fishing, seal tours
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Stunning coastline and classic Cape Cod feel
- Charming, walkable downtown with shopping and dining
- Vibrant summer events and quiet winter lifestyle
- Safe, peaceful, and community-oriented
- Strong appreciation in property values
Cons
- High cost of living and real estate
- Limited diversity and nightlife
- Seasonal crowding in summer, slower pace in winter
- Car needed for errands; limited public transportation
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for iconic Cape Cod charm, an elevated lifestyle, and a tight-knit seaside community, Chatham delivers it all. It’s a top choice for retirees, second-home buyers, and anyone seeking tranquility by the sea—with a touch of class.
Ready to Make the Move?
Categories
Recent Posts
