More often than not, investors prefer a better-known city when they want to diversify their portfolios by exploring overseas property markets.
However, it’s not an ideal strategy, at least for the most part.
Smaller, more localized markets in the United States are showing such trends that indicate opportunities for property investment. One such market is Winthrop, Massachusetts.
While not as globally recognized as Boston or New York, Winthrop neighborhoods offer a satisfying suburban lifestyle, as well as investment potential.
With that said, let’s dive into this article and discuss why Winthrop Massachusetts is a strong contender in the real estate investment market.
Understanding the Property Market in Winthrop, Massachusetts
Investing in a real estate market that is outside of your country comes with various risk factors.
Property and tenant maintenance issues, seasonal fluctuations, financing risks, local regulations and taxation, etc, can deter potential overseas investors from booming market opportunities.
All of these risks are present in the Winthrop, MA housing market as well.
However, this quaint seaside town has something that most other coastal real estate markets don’t have: a positive YTD change in property sales.
The current median property price in Winthrop is around $680k, which is +7.6% up compared to last year’s rate. (Source: Zillow)
And this facet doesn’t end here!
If we go back year over year, we can only see a progressive trend in property pricing. Meaning, you can expect a consistent appreciation value by investing in this property market.
Real Estate Market Trend in Winthrop, MA
Why Winthrop, Massachusetts Should Be on Your Radar for Property Investments
Winthrop, Massachusetts, is a charming seaside town located just a few miles from downtown Boston. Over the past few years, it has increasingly become a lucrative real estate market due to its coastal beauty and relatively affordable pricing compared to other metropolitans.
This market has all the upsides and barely any downsides for both local and overseas investors. Here’s why:
1. Affordable Coastal Living
At a glance, this seaside suburb might seem like an expensive market. The cost of living in this city is around 34%, along with property costs ranging around $678,966, which is much higher than the nation’s average.
However, you have to look at things from a broader perspective.
Coastal properties across the country usually have a much higher rate. And for international investors, this real estate market makes more sense due to its higher demand and appreciation value.
Winthrop is one of those seaside suburbs where you can enjoy the benefits of a coastal lifestyle without the premium price tag seen in larger coastal cities.
For example, the canal-front properties in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina can range from around $750,000 to $1 million. Winthrop may not be as luxurious as Hilton Head Island, but as a seaside neighborhood, it is definitely more affordable and worth every penny.
Not to mention, in comparison to Boston, property prices in Winthrop are much more reasonable.
2. Proximity to Boston
Most of the coastal neighborhoods in Winthrop are located just a few miles from downtown Boston.
Despite such proximity, the property prices are nowhere near as high as Boston’s.
However, having a well-known city like Boston in close proximity has so many upsides. Winthrop is well-positioned to attract renters and buyers who work in the city but prefer a quieter, suburban lifestyle.
And that’s not all!
Families living in Winthrop will have easy access to all the modern amenities, parks, educational institutes, and more.
In short, all the pros and none of the cons.
As a result, the property demand in this area always stays quite high and offers a steady stream of rental income(an average of $2,600 per month according to Zillow).
Some other states, like NY, might have higher effective rent revenue compared to Winthrop. But most of those properties don’t guarantee a secure rental income due to having lower demand and inventory than Winthrop.
3. Growing Popularity
The housing cost in Boston has been skyrocketing for the past couple of years.
In 2016, the median property price in Boston was approximately $538,145. In 2024, it grew to a staggering $763,220 on average. (Source: Zillow)
As a result, people are choosing to settle in surrounding areas where they can enjoy a slower pace of life while still being connected to the city.
For that, Boston’s nearby Winthrop town has become a popular choice due to its coastal lifestyle and ease of transportation.
New businesses, restaurants, and amenities are also popping up in the city to cater to the influx of new residents. This kind of development often leads to a much higher property investment over time, especially for first-time buyers, which is quite appealing to future buyers.
4. Short-Term Rental Incomes
One of the biggest reasons why many international investors prefer water-front properties is because these can be rented as vacation homes or Airbnb. By doing so, investors can enjoy short-term rental incomes with higher yields than traditional long-term leasing.
Since Winthrop also has lots of waterfront properties with picturesque sceneries, it has tourist appeal for seasonal vacations.
Not to mention, its proximity to Boston makes it an ideal choice for tourists who want to explore the city but prefer to stay in a quieter, more scenic environment.
Furthermore, the Logan International Airport in nearby Boston makes Winthrop neighborhoods convenient for international visitors.
5. Quaint Community Feel
Unlike some of the more tourist-heavy destinations in the U.S., Winthrop offers a more authentic and local experience.
Most of the neighborhoods in this town have the suburban feel of a small New England town. It also has a tight-knit, vibrant community that’s both diverse and welcoming to newcomers from abroad.
The beaches, the parks, the marinas; everything screams perfection for those who value outdoor activities and coastal living.
As a result, Winthrop offers a unique opportunity for real estate investors who want to invest in rental or vacation homes with long-term value.
Bottom Line
Despite all the inflation and economic turmoil, the real estate market in the US is still a viable option. That is also true for investors who want to ensure a steady stream of profit in property markets outside of their home countries.
And if you’re one of those investors, Winthrop, MA should be at the top of your list for obvious reasons.
