September 11, 2025

Top Wealthiest ZIP Codes in Massachusetts Revealed

News Summary

The Boston Business Journal has released a report identifying the wealthiest ZIP codes in Massachusetts, highlighting discrepancies with poverty rates in affluent neighborhoods. The top ranking is led by Boston’s Back Bay, followed by South End and Brookline. Despite high living costs in Boston, emerging affluent areas, like Beverly and Leominster, indicate shifting residency trends among wealthy individuals. The study illustrates the ongoing evolution of wealth distribution in the state, particularly influenced by young families and millennials.

Boston – The latest report released by the Boston Business Journal has identified the wealthiest ZIP codes in Massachusetts, all of which are situated within ten miles of downtown Boston. Leading the rankings is ZIP code 02116 in the affluent neighborhood of Back Bay, where the median home value reaches an impressive $1.3 million.

The second wealthiest ZIP code is 02118, located in the vibrant South End. This area presents a unique contrast, with a poverty rate exceeding 24%, highlighting the disparities present even in wealthy neighborhoods. Following closely is 02446 in Brookline, rounding out the top three most affluent areas in the state.

The report relied on data gathered from the U.S. Census Bureau and Zillow, taking into account various metrics such as income, home values, and poverty rates. As a result, the analysis revealed that the typical home value among the top ten wealthiest ZIP codes stands at approximately $880,000, which is nearly double the national average.

Interestingly, the median age of residents in these wealthy communities is about 35 years, indicating a significant influence from young families and millennials in shaping the wealth landscape of Boston. This demographic trend reflects the ongoing evolution of urban environments, where younger generations seek proximity to urban amenities and job markets.

The complete list of the top ten wealthiest ZIP codes in Massachusetts is as follows:

02116 (Boston, Back Bay)
02118 (Boston, South End)
02446 (Brookline)
02144 (Somerville)
02129 (Charlestown)
02140 (Cambridge)
02127 (South Boston)
02476 (Arlington)
02139 (Cambridge)
02141 (Cambridge)

While Boston’s high cost of living is well-documented, the report also highlights emerging affluent areas outside the city. According to a recent Realtor.com analysis, Beverly and Leominster have emerged as two of the hottest ZIP codes for homebuyers, suggesting shifting trends in where affluent residents choose to live.

The methodology for the top ZIP code rankings has evolved, utilizing a more comprehensive dataset than in previous years, which influenced the rankings of various areas. Notably, Dover, which previously held the first-place position in 2024, has fallen off the top ten list, although it continues to be recognized for its high levels of household income and education.

This report not only underscores the concentrations of wealth in Boston but also illustrates a broader trend in the state. Despite Boston’s standing as an expensive urban center, there are emerging affluent communities elsewhere, such as the Cape Cod area, albeit ranked lower in wealth. North Chatham currently holds the honor of being the highest-ranked Cape Cod ZIP code, landing in 46th place among wealth rankings.

In conclusion, the Boston area remains a focal point for wealth evolution, shaped by young families and rising home values. With the economic landscape continuously changing, it is clear that the future of wealth distribution in Massachusetts will be closely watched by residents and analysts alike.

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Author: STAFF HERE BOSTON WRITER

BOSTON STAFF WRITER The BOSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBoston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Boston, Suffolk County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Boston Marathon, Head of the Charles Regatta, and Boston Harborfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Massachusetts, plus leading businesses in finance, biotech, and insurance that power the local economy such as Fidelity Investments, Biogen, and Liberty Mutual Insurance. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Massachusetts's dynamic landscape.