Nantucket Real Estate Information

Nantucket, just thirty miles off the southern shores of Cape Cod in Massachusetts, is a quaint island community that experiences a quiet off-season and busy summer season.
An influx of tourists floods the island to escape the heat by bathing in the cool oceanic waters and taking part in a number of fun recreational activities. While the island?s main settlement is a community by the same name, the islands of Tuckernuck and Muskeget are also part of the Nantucket County and together with the other neighborhoods of Madaket, Surfside, Polpis, Wauwinet, Miacomet, and Siasconset, compose a dynamic place to live. Known for its pricey properties and extravagant summer homes, Nantucket has become synonymous with the social elite and is a favorite setting for a number of Hollywood movies. Still, the peaceful crashing of waves upon the Nantucket shores prevails and a local island culture continues to thrive.

The town?s name is derived from the Eastern Algonquian language of southern New England and is roughly translated as “far away island.” The first true settlement evolved in 1659 and the area quickly became the leading whaling port for the region. A rich history since then has created a unique culture that remains in Nantucket as a rich part of daily life. The Nantucket Historic District preserves some of the oldest buildings in the nation. In fact, Nantucket is home to one of the highest concentrations of pre-Civil War structures. Some of the historic places that still attract thousands of visitors a year include Brant Point Light Station, Jethro Coffin House, Nantucket Light, and Sankaty Head Light. These attractions are not just pleasing to the eye but are also still operational today.

A number of distinctive natural attractions add to the beautiful scenery that covers the Nantucket area. Coatue is a long barrier beach on Nantucket Island, separating Nantucket Sound from Nantucket Harbor. The Hummock and Miacomet Ponds adorn the island?s southern shores and are lined with sandy beaches. The Popsquatchet Hills create the peaks of Nantucket. A number of hikes and scenic walls explore the area and often afford 360-degree panoramas of the island as well as views to the distant cape and mainland Massachusetts.

The Nantucket Public Schools provides exceptional coverage and consists of a single elementary, middle, and high school chain. A few private institutions serve the more than 1,200 students in Nantucket. Nantucket Memorial Airport, in the heart of town, is a busy municipal airport and on busy summer days receives more airplane landings and take offs than Boston?s Logan International Airport. A field for both private and commercial operators, the airport is a crucial transportation point for visitors and residents alike. A ferry service is the most common method of reaching the island.
Falmouth is the most frequented port on Cape Cod due to its close proximity to Nantucket.