Bristol County Real Estate Market Report — September 2026

Published: September 29, 2026
Data source: MLSPIN | Single-family home sales, March 29 – September 29, 2026

Bristol County is moving steadily through fall, with Taunton, Attleboro, Mansfield, Easton, and Dartmouth leading a solid pace of transactions. Over the past six months, more than 1,500 single-family homes changed hands across this diverse market—from the affordability-focused communities near Route 24 to the waterfront premium areas of Dartmouth and Westport. Here's what the current data shows.

The Headline Numbers

Largest transaction volume: New Bedford (215 units) | Taunton (185 units)
Highest median price: Westport ($729,500)
Most efficient market: Norton (19 days on market)
Strongest anchor town: Taunton ($530,000 | 185 units | 22 days)
Best value-per-square-foot: Fall River ($273.59/sq ft)
Average days on market (region): 24.5 days

What Stands Out — and What It Means

New Bedford and Taunton anchor the region's volume and affordability story. Combined, these two towns account for more than 400 home sales in six months—the engine of Bristol County's market. New Bedford's 215 transactions at a $450,000 median represent the true entry-point tier of this region, attracting first-time buyers and investors alike. Taunton, at $530,000 median with 185 units, positions itself as the geographic and economic center of Bristol County. Both towns move consistently (22–25 days), signaling stable demand and reliable pricing. For buyers seeking affordable entry or investors finding cash-flow opportunities, these towns represent Bristol County's core opportunity. For sellers, pricing competitively in this volume-driven market means moving briskly.

Westport leads the prestige tier with waterfront premium pricing. At $729,500 median, Westport commands the highest price in Bristol County—a reflection of its coastal character, waterfront properties, and proximity to Rhode Island's upscale communities. The 28.5-day average time on market, while longer than the regional average, is typical for prestige waterfront markets where buyers are selective and properties are unique. For Westport sellers, pricing reflects scarcity and location premium; for buyers, the extended timeline signals a market where finding the right coastal property matters more than speed.

Easton and Mansfield bridge affordability and prestige—and move efficiently. Easton at $781,750 and Mansfield at $755,000 occupy the mid-prestige tier, offering excellent schools (particularly Easton), commuter access to Route 128 and I-95, and significantly lower pricing than Metro West comparables. Both markets move in 20–23 days, reflecting steady buyer interest in this sweet spot. For buyers relocating from higher-cost areas, these towns represent genuine value with top-tier school districts; for sellers, the quick pace reflects real demand at accurate pricing.

Fall River shows investment opportunity with extended timelines. Fall River's $478,250 median and 215 total units make it Bristol County's affordability anchor. The $273.59 price per square foot is the lowest in the region—a signal of both value and market dynamics. The 30.5-day average time on market reflects Fall River's dual character: owner-occupied homes move steadily, while investment properties and urban multi-family demand create complexity. For investors seeking cash-flow opportunities and owner-occupants seeking true affordability, Fall River is the value play in Bristol County. For sellers, realistic pricing and investor-friendly presentation matter.

Norton moves fastest despite mid-market positioning. At 19 days on market, Norton is Bristol County's efficiency leader. The $718,750 median and strong $333.99 price per square foot reflect buyer confidence in this town's schools, walkable town center, and commuter rail access (MBTA line to Boston). For sellers in Norton, the speed suggests a genuine seller's advantage—price accurately and you'll close faster than regional average. For buyers, competitive offers and financing readiness are essential.

Dartmouth and Westport's waterfront character commands patience and precision. Both towns see extended days on market (25–28.5 days), but for good reason: waterfront premium positioning, larger properties, and selective buyer pools mean these transactions are about fit, not speed. Dartmouth's $625,000 median sits between the prestige tier and core Bristol County pricing. For waterfront sellers, the extended timeline is expected and not a weakness signal; for buyers, the pace allows for thorough due diligence and financing consideration on higher-value properties.

Taunton Deep Dive: Bristol County's Anchor Town

Taunton is where Bristol County's identity crystallizes—a working town with solid schools, reliable commuter access (Route 24 to Providence and Boston), and consistent, affordable pricing. The 185 homes sold over six months and $530,000 median represent the steady state of this market: families moving for value, investors seeking cash flow, and locals staying put. The 22-day average time on market signals a healthy, balanced market—not overheated, not stalling. Price per square foot ($338.93) sits squarely in the middle of Bristol County's range, reflecting Taunton's position as the geographic anchor. What's notable is predictability: Taunton's market doesn't see wild swings or inventory crashes. Pricing is disciplined, and the market absorbs homes consistently. For sellers, this stability means pricing with confidence based on actual comparables, not speculation. For buyers, Taunton remains the entry point to Bristol County ownership with reasonable expectations for timing and price.

What This Means for Sellers in Bristol County

If you're selling in Bristol County, your market timing depends on price tier. In the affordability-focused towns (New Bedford, Fall River, Taunton), homes priced accurately move in 20–25 days—there's consistent buyer demand and pricing transparency. In the value tier (Attleboro, North Attleboro, Somerset, Mansfield), homes move efficiently (20–23 days) when shown well and priced right. In waterfront and prestige communities (Westport, Dartmouth, Easton), expect a longer timeline, but for homes that truly deliver on lifestyle and view—this is where premium pricing happens. Bottom line: Prepare your home for the market it's in. Value-tier homes need speed and presentation; prestige homes need patience and positioning. Price accurately, and you'll achieve your timeline.

What This Means for Buyers

Bristol County offers genuine value across multiple price tiers, but competition varies. In the $450K–$530K range (New Bedford, Taunton, Fall River), you'll face moderate competition and need solid financing and flexibility on property condition. In the mid-market ($620K–$780K), homes move efficiently and buyer demand is steady—being pre-approved and ready within 48 hours gives you a real advantage. In waterfront communities (Westport, Dartmouth), you have time to be selective but must move decisively when you find the right property. Across all of Bristol County, the regional average of 24.5 days on market means homes priced accurately DO move—the advantage goes to buyers who are truly ready and clear on priorities. The buyers winning in Bristol County are those with pre-approval in hand, realistic expectations for their price tier, and readiness to move when the right opportunity appears.

September 2026 Outlook

As Bristol County enters fall, seasonal patterns suggest a quieter pace—back-to-school priorities, cooling buyer interest, and holiday-season planning typically shift transactions into later months. However, the consistent six-month data shows underlying stability. Days on market remain reasonable (most towns in the 19–25 day range), and pricing shows discipline across all tiers. The affordability advantage Bristol County holds relative to Plymouth County and the South Shore means sustained interest from first-time buyers and value-conscious relocators. If inventory remains moderate and rates hold steady, expect the fall market to be steady—a good environment for sellers who understand their town's character and buyers who are truly ready to commit.

We're here to help you navigate Bristol County's diverse market. Whether you're buying in Taunton, selling in Westport, or exploring value opportunities in New Bedford, we understand what makes each community tick—and what it takes to close the deal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Bristol County towns offer the best value right now?

New Bedford ($450,000 median), Taunton ($530,000), and Fall River ($478,250) represent Bristol County's strongest value tier. All three show consistent buyer demand and sales times in the 22–25 day range. If you're seeking affordable entry to homeownership or investment cash flow, these towns deliver genuine value without requiring six-month holding periods. Source: MLSPIN, March 29 – September 29, 2026.

Is Bristol County a good investment market?

Yes, especially for cash-flow investors. New Bedford, Fall River, and Taunton offer median prices well below Plymouth County and South Shore comparables, with solid tenant demand and reasonable renovation economics. Multi-family investment properties in New Bedford and Fall River attract particular interest. The affordability advantage and emerging neighborhood revitalization in Fall River and New Bedford create opportunity for patient investors. Source: MLSPIN, March 29 – September 29, 2026.

How fast are homes selling in Bristol County?

The regional average is 24.5 days on market. Fastest markets: Norton (19 days), Attleboro (21 days), Dighton (21 days), Somerset (21 days). Slowest: Freetown (41 days) and Rehoboth (32 days). Most towns cluster in the 19–25 day range, signaling a healthy, predictable market. Source: MLSPIN, March 29 – September 29, 2026.

What's the difference between Fall River and New Bedford?

Both are affordable urban markets ($450K–$478K median), but Fall River emphasizes urban residential and investment opportunity, while New Bedford blends residential with distinct waterfront and artist-community characteristics. New Bedford's coastal character attracts lifestyle buyers; Fall River attracts primarily investors and value-focused owner-occupants. Days on market: New Bedford (25 days), Fall River (30.5 days). Source: MLSPIN, March 29 – September 29, 2026.

Should I consider Dartmouth or Westport if I want waterfront?

Absolutely—if budget allows. Dartmouth ($625,000) and Westport ($729,500) offer genuine waterfront character at prices below comparable South Shore or Cape Cod waterfront. Both see extended sales timelines (25–28.5 days), but this reflects selective buyer pools and property uniqueness, not weakness. If waterfront lifestyle is the goal, these towns deliver value. Source: MLSPIN, March 29 – September 29, 2026.

Are Easton and Mansfield good school district choices?

Yes—particularly Easton, which consistently ranks among the state's top school systems. Easton ($781,750) and Mansfield ($755,000) combine excellent schools with reasonable Bristol County pricing (significantly lower than Metro West comparables) and strong commuter access. Both show efficient sales timelines (20–23 days), reflecting steady buyer demand for the school district + value combination. Source: MLSPIN, March 29 – September 29, 2026.

All data sourced from MLSPIN. Single family home sales, March 29, 2026 – September 29, 2026.

Published by the Charles King Group, Hingham, MA.

Charles King Group is a top-producing real estate team serving Bristol County (Taunton, Attleboro, Mansfield, Easton, Dartmouth, and surrounding communities), the South Shore, Metro West, Boston, Cape Cod, and Northern Middlesex & the Merrimack Valley. Brokered by Real Broker MA, LLC. Ranked in the top 1.5% of agents nationwide by Real Trends.