10 Best Places to Live on the East Coast, According to Real Estate Experts

Charleston, South Carolina

“Charleston is quickly becoming one of the most popular places to move on the East Coast in 2025, and for good reason. You’ve got beaches, beautiful waterfront views, and some of the best restaurants and shops in the region,” says Maryam Redjaee, principal at Maryam Homes at Compass. “What I love most is how walkable it is, and you don’t even need a car to enjoy it. Local markets pop up downtown, showcasing artists and handmade goods, and the community vibe is warm and inviting, with everyone greeting you with a smile.” She also notes the mild climate, which allows residents to “enjoy everything Charleston has to offer in every season.”

If you’re looking for more affordable housing in the Charleston area—Redjaee shares that entry-level, design-ready homes can start around $850,000 in downtown Charleston—look at properties in Johns Island, Mount Pleasant, or the Park Circle neighborhood in North Charleston.

Alexandria, Virginia

“Of all of D.C.’s surrounding areas, Alexandria is arguably the most attractive, essentially acting as a suburb of D.C. but benefiting from its own local government,” says Darren Robertson, founder and realtor at Northern Virginia Home Pro. “Things like home insurance and closing costs are also markedly less expensive in Virginia than in D.C., standing as an extra benefit to buying a home in the area. In terms of living in Alexandria, the cost of living is still significantly higher than places a little further afield like Manassas or Waldorf, but being so close to D.C. and in an area that has an already great public transit network that’s also currently being improved is worth the extra cost to many buyers.”

Redjaee also recommends Alexandria, specifically pointing out the Old Town neighborhood. “It’s incredibly walkable, and whether you’re picnicking by the water or strolling down King Street, you’ll feel like you’re living in a storybook. It’s a favorite among younger professionals and families who want charm and convenience, though the price point can make it competitive,” she explains, noting that entry-level homes “start around $1.2 million for a cozy townhouse.”

Gloucester, Massachusetts

“Just 35 miles north of Boston, Gloucester has got 60 miles of coastline and some of New England’s most iconic beaches,” says Karen Hanson, license partner at Engel & Völkers By the Sea. She describes Gloucester as a “vibrant, tight-knit, and refreshingly diverse community,” one where the “patina is where all the fun lies.” “You’ll find fishermen, entrepreneurs, and artists enjoying time together for a boat ride on the Annisquam or over fresh-caught tuna tartare at Tonno,” she says.

“In terms of real estate, there is something for everyone. There are grand shingle-style mansions on Eastern Point, while cozy cottages and inland homes provide options for newcomers,” Hanson explains. The median listing house price is just over $1 million, but she says, “If you are interested in purchasing in a vibrant waterfront community and your budget betrays you, doing renovations on a well-chosen home could be your answer.”

Newport, Rhode Island

“New Englanders are all about history and the outdoors, and Newport offers both in abundance. The sailing community is known worldwide and reflects the deep and respectful relationship we have to the water,” says Hanson, adding that it’s a “physically beautiful place with a magnetic cultural appeal.”

As far as real estate goes, Newport is on the pricier side, especially if you’re searching for a single-family home. “Like many historic smaller-sized cities, there is limited opportunity for new development, but the demand for a sophisticated, seaside place to live with the best views, food, and entertainment never seems to wane,” she explains. “Single-family homes are averaging over $1 million, but there are far more affordable options to experience Newport in condos or rentals.”

Southampton, New York

“I think Southampton is an amazing East Coast place to live. In recent years, areas further east in the Hamptons have really become the stars of the show, but in the south, you’re hours closer to the city,” says Jessica Chestler, a licensed real estate broker with Douglas Elliman and part of The Chestler Jacobs Team. “The beaches are constantly ranked among the best in the world, you have first-class dining, and the houses have not had as massive of a price increase as similar neighborhoods,” she adds, referring to areas like Montauk and Sag Harbor. Still, Southampton is one of the more expensive places to live in the U.S., so expect to pay a pretty penny for this sort of lifestyle.

Bethesda, Maryland

“Bethesda is a standout for so many reasons, and I can say that as someone who actually lives here. It’s welcoming to everyone, including families, young professionals, and empty nesters,” says Redjaee. She also shares that it’s known for its “highly educated population and thoughtful community,” and it’s ideal for those who enjoy an active lifestyle, thanks to its “access to the Capital Crescent Trail, parks, and fitness centers.”

As far as housing goes, you have options. “The housing options are diverse, whether you’re looking for a condo, townhome, or single-family home, and everything is close to D.C. and Northern Virginia,” she says. “Entry-level condos start around $450,000, and Montgomery County has done a great job creating affordable housing options.”

Greenwich, Connecticut

“Greenwich, Connecticut, is a perfect mix of suburban town with a small element of beach town and city mixed in. Greenwich Avenue offers the same shops as any major city, has major restaurateurs, but also has all local purveyors and cute shops,” says Chestler. “You have a one-hour train to the city and first-class public schools and amazing private schools as well, not to mention you save on income taxes with easy access to New York.” If you’re already familiar with Greenwich, it may not come as a surprise that real estate deals in the area are far and few between. According to Zillow, the average Greenwich home value is north of $2 million.

Kennebunkport, Maine

“Kennebunkport is almost like two towns in one. During the summer, the quiet seaside village truly comes to life. Goose Rocks Beach is renowned, and no August is complete without fried clams from the Clam Shack downtown,” says Hanson. “But as magical as the summers are, residents love the quieter seasons in Kennebunkport just the same.”

“Real estate here can be pricey, but in comparison to other historic waterfront towns across the country, I am always amazed at what a value Kennebunkport, and Maine, in general, offers for access to the ocean, quaint downtowns, and the conveniences of nearby major cities,” she explains. Notably, Portland is just 40 minutes away. “Quiet retreat or lively coastal scene? In Kennebunkport, you are never far from either,” Hanson quips.

Harrison, New York

“I grew up in the town of Harrison, New York, and I think of it as sleeper town,” says Chestler, who highlights its range of amenities, including “great dining, local businesses that have been around for decades, a 10-minute ride from the beach, a 15-minute ride to Greenwich, many golf courses (both private and public), a public airport with easy access to many parts of Florida for snowbirds, and a 35-minute train to the city.” Redfin reports that the housing market is “very competitive,” as of August 2025, with a median sale price of $1.8 million.

Silver Spring, Maryland

“Another great option on the other side of D.C. is Silver Spring, with home prices currently a little less expensive than in Alexandria, but still being a comparable distance away from D.C.,” says Robertson. “The downside, however, is that things like home insurance and closing costs are generally more expensive in Maryland as a whole, so choosing between the two states really comes down to the properties you find and what you intend to do with them. For example, buyers planning to sell in the next five to 10 years will trade higher closing costs now for more profit down the line.”

“In terms of actually living in Silver Spring, it’s generally more affordable than somewhere like Alexandria and much less expensive than D.C. proper,” he continues. If you’re a commuter or someone who works in the office, you may want to consider the traffic implications. “That said, traffic can get quite bad in Silver Spring, which can turn into even more of an issue when you consider many residents commute on the bus network, making travel into D.C itself deceptively time-consuming,” he adds.