In-Town (Nantucket Village) — $3M–$15M+
The historic core. Cobblestone streets, grey-shingled architecture enforced by the HDC, walking distance to the harbor and ferry terminal. The most architecturally significant and sought-after addresses on the island. HDC regulation is strictest here. Buyers with renovation plans must engage an HDC-experienced architect during due diligence. The best in-town properties trade off-market before reaching MLS.
Siasconset (Sconset) — $2.5M–$8M+
The eastern village, 20-25 minutes from Town by car. Rose-covered cottages, the bluff with ocean views, a post office and small commercial strip, a community with its own distinct identity. Bluff-top and ocean-view positions command the premium within the neighborhood. Buyers here are making a specific choice for Sconset, not just Nantucket generally.
Madaket — $2.5M–$6M
Western end of the island, approximately 5.5 miles from Town. Dramatic sunset exposure across Nantucket Sound, more remote, less social concentration. Hither Creek and Long Pond flank the neighborhood and create a distinctive coastal landscape. The buyer choosing Madaket is choosing the western light and the solitude.
Surfside / Cisco — $2.5M–$5M
South shore. Atlantic beach access, more accessible pricing than Town or Sconset, more new construction. Cisco Brewers anchors the social life of this part of the island. A younger and more casual character than the historic neighborhoods.
Brant Point — $3M–$10M+
The narrow spit at the harbor entrance, north of Town. Brant Point Lighthouse is one of the island's most recognized landmarks. Properties face the harbor rather than the open Atlantic. Inventory is genuinely scarce and transactions are infrequent.
Mid-Island — $1.5M–$3M
The lowest-cost and least architecturally notable part of Nantucket. Primarily year-round residential stock. The right choice for buyers whose primary concern is price. The wrong choice for buyers specifically seeking the Nantucket character that justifies the market's price premium.
Neighborhood Comparison
| Neighborhood | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| In-Town | $3M–$15M+ | Historic architecture, walkability, social center |
| Sconset | $2.5M–$8M+ | Bluff views, distinct village identity |
| Madaket | $2.5M–$6M | Privacy, sunsets, solitude |
| Surfside / Cisco | $2.5M–$5M | Beach access, more accessible entry |
| Brant Point | $3M–$10M+ | Harbor views, scarcity, prestige |
| Mid-Island | $1.5M–$3M | Year-round use, budget-constrained buyers |