MA
Living in Fairhaven, Massachusetts
Historic architecture and coastal charm, just across the bridge from New Bedford.
Living in Fairhaven
Fairhaven sits directly across the Acushnet River from New Bedford, connected by the New Bedford-Fairhaven Bridge, giving residents a smaller-town coastal feel while staying close to the city. It suits buyers who want historic character, walkable neighborhoods, and real waterfront access without leaving the New Bedford area entirely.
See Homes for Sale in Fairhaven
How I Serve Fairhaven
I'm Sheri Francis with BOLD Real Estate, and Fairhaven is personal to me, my husband's family has lived here for generations, and it's the town where we were married. I know its streets, its history, and its pace from years of actually spending time here, not just from listing sheets.
Fairhaven Neighborhoods & Communities
Fairhaven's town center is known for its unusually impressive historic architecture, much of it connected to Henry Huttleston Rogers, including Fairhaven Town Hall and the Millicent Library. Other parts of town feel more residential and suburban, and toward the coast, near Fort Phoenix State Reservation, the atmosphere shifts again toward beaches, marinas, and waterfront living.
Fairhaven Housing Market & Home Types
Fairhaven offers older historic properties, traditional New England-style houses, capes, ranches, colonials, and waterfront homes, with prices shaped heavily by neighborhood, condition, and proximity to the water. I'd rather walk through real comps for your specific budget than quote one town-wide figure that hides how much variation exists here.
Schools in Fairhaven
Fairhaven runs its own public school system, from elementary through high school:
- East Fairhaven Elementary School, public elementary
- Leroy L. Wood Elementary School, public elementary
- Hastings Middle School, public middle school
- Fairhaven High School, public high school
Where to Eat in Fairhaven
A few local favorites, from fine Indian dining by the water to classic Italian and fresh waterfront seafood:
- Saffron By The Sea, Indian fine dining, 110 Middle Street, right by the water at the foot of the New Bedford-Fairhaven bridge
- BOCCA Italian Fine Dining, upscale Italian, 100 Alden Road, house-made pastas and an extensive wine list
- Fathoms Waterfront Bar & Grille, seafood, 255 Pope's Island, fresh seafood served at a waterfront deck, featured on Phantom Gourmet
Getting to Know Fairhaven
Fort Phoenix, the Phoenix Bike Trail, and the historic town center are worth experiencing in person before deciding whether Fairhaven fits. Reach out and I'll show you around a town I know personally.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Fairhaven connected to New Bedford?
The two towns sit directly across the Acushnet River from each other, connected by the New Bedford-Fairhaven Bridge.
What is Fairhaven known for architecturally?
An unusually impressive collection of historic buildings connected to Henry Huttleston Rogers, including Fairhaven Town Hall and the Millicent Library.
Does Sheri Francis have a personal connection to Fairhaven?
Yes, her husband's family has lived in Fairhaven for generations, and it's the town where they were married.
What is the median home price in Fairhaven?
Fairhaven prices generally sit above New Bedford's and below Dartmouth's and Mattapoisett's. Sheri pulls recent sold comparisons for the street or neighborhood you care about.
How long does it take to sell a home in Fairhaven?
It depends on price, condition, and timing. Homes priced well from day one tend to sell closest to asking, and Sheri shows you recent Fairhaven results.
Is Fairhaven a buyer's or seller's market?
With limited inventory, conditions often favor sellers, so buyers should be ready to act when the right home appears. Sheri checks months of supply in your price range.
What is it like to live in Fairhaven?
Fairhaven is a historic South Coast town across the river from New Bedford, known for its architecture, waterfront, parks, and strong sense of community.
Can I move to Fairhaven from New Bedford?
Many homeowners do. Sheri helps you work out what the equity in your current home could realistically contribute before you fall in love with a listing.
Buying in Fairhaven
The method
How we do it in Fairhaven
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Ready to make your move with Sheri Francis?