Affordable Towns for First-Time BuyersSouth of Boston
If you are purchasing your first home in the Norton area, this guide compares 8 towns by median home price, property tax rate, lot size, and commute options — all objective data to help you narrow your search.
Towns Ranked by Median Home Price
The following table lists 8 towns in the Norton area, sorted from lowest to highest median home price. All data is from public records and MLS data as of April 2026.
| Town | Median Price | Tax Rate | Typical Lot | Commute to Boston | MBTA Rail |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taunton | $460,000 | $12.77/1K | 0.15–0.5 acre | 45–55 min | No |
| Attleboro | $480,000 | $13.50/1K | 0.15–0.5 acre | 40–50 min | Yes |
| Raynham | $510,000 | $15.02/1K | 0.25–1 acre | 40–50 min | No |
| Bridgewater | $520,000 | $16.22/1K | 0.25–0.75 acre | 40–50 min | Yes |
| North Attleboro | $530,000 | $12.85/1K | 0.15–0.5 acre | 45–55 min | Yes |
| Plainville | $540,000 | $14.10/1K | 0.25–0.75 acre | 45–55 min | No |
| Norton | $580,000 | $14.92/1K | 0.25–1 acre | 45–55 min | No |
| Easton | $600,000 | $15.66/1K | 0.5–2 acres | 40–50 min | No |
Prospective buyers should verify all figures independently. Prices reflect median single-family home sales.
Key Factors for First-Time Buyers
When evaluating towns in the Norton area, first-time buyers should consider several objective factors beyond the listing price. The property tax rate directly impacts your monthly payment — a lower rate can offset a slightly higher purchase price. For example, Taunton and North Attleboro have the lowest tax rates in this comparison.
Commute options vary significantly. Towns with MBTA Commuter Rail stations (Attleboro, Bridgewater, North Attleboro) provide an alternative to driving, which may reduce transportation costs. However, monthly rail passes add to the budget.
Lot size affects both your living space and long-term property value. Towns like Easton and Raynham tend to have larger lots, while Taunton and Attleboro offer more compact properties closer to town centers.
Massachusetts First-Time Buyer Programs
Massachusetts offers several programs specifically for first-time homebuyers. These include:
- MassHousing Mortgage: Low down payment options (as low as 3%) with no private mortgage insurance (PMI) requirement. Income limits apply.
- ONE Mortgage Program: Fixed-rate mortgages with 3% down payment, no PMI, and discounted interest rates. Available through participating lenders.
- MassHousing Down Payment Assistance: Up to $50,000 in down payment assistance for qualifying buyers. This is a 15-year, no-interest, no-payment loan.
- FHA Loans: Federal program allowing 3.5% down payment with more flexible credit requirements. Available in all towns listed above.
Program availability and terms change. Contact a licensed mortgage lender or visit masshousing.com for current details.
Ready to Start Your Home Search?
Team Chundi helps first-time buyers navigate the Norton area market. We can walk you through the process from pre-approval to closing.