What are Benefits and Drawbacks of Living in Nantucket Island Life?
Nantucket, the picturesque Massachusetts Island 30 miles off Cape Cod, is a perennial summer hotspot for its beaches, charming cottages, and harbor views. If you’ve ever dreamed of buying property in this island paradise, Nantucket MA real estate agent Bernadette Meyer can help make your dream a reality. Before you pack your bags, consider the major pros and cons of living on Nantucket year-round:
The scenic serenity
One of Nantucket’s greatest assets is its natural scenic beauty. The island offers idyllic beaches, hidden ponds, and cedar forests. The breathtaking landscapes, like harbor sunsets, seal and whale migrations, clean air, minimal light pollution for stargazing, and abundant wildlife make it an ideal destination for nature lovers. The simplicity and serenity of island living is a major perk.
A slower pace of life
Nantucket has resisted the development and urban sprawl that has overcome much of the Northeastern coastline. Chain restaurants and stores are prohibited on the island, preserving its quaint appeal. Locals shop at farmer markets, relish freshly caught seafood, and value self-sufficient living. Ferry schedules and tide changes measure days. Nantucket offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
The challenges of seclusion
Islanders sacrifice convenience and access for tranquility and natural beauty but face higher costs and longer access times for goods and services. The housing and necessities can be expensive. Winter months leave few shops and restaurants open, with some completely shuttering until spring. Job opportunities also become scarce in the off-season. Poor weather can delay ferry service, causing disruptions. Patients must take the ferry and then drive over an hour to Hyannis for medical care and procedures. Seclusion has genuine obstacles despite its lovely surroundings.
The high cost of paradise
Nantucket’s high cost of living can price out new residents. Summer demand, driven by limited housing inventory, significantly increases home values, even for modest houses, exceeding over a million dollars. Luxury real estate pushes towards eight figures for harbor-front property. Owners often opt for weekly summer rentals over long-term rentals due to financial benefits. Everyday expenses like gas, food, and entertainment also exceed national averages.
An island in flux
The future remains uncertain as Nantucket grapples with its identity as a summer resort and a year-round community. Some doubt whether less affluent island natives and seasonal workers will continue to afford to live on Nantucket. The middle class’s exodus could potentially harm civic culture, but Nantucket remains a unique coastal gem with a small-town charm that appeals to the wealthy.
Homes for sale in Nantucket
Nantucket Island is known for its high-end real estate. Homes for sale on Nantucket range from quaint cottages starting around $1 million to sprawling oceanfront compounds priced over $20 million. Inventory is low, especially for more affordable options under $2 million, but new high-end construction continues to come onto the Nantucket housing market to cater to wealthy second-home buyers who are relocating.
Living in Nantucket
Nantucket’s life is relaxed, with summer days spent exploring its beautiful island by boating, beaching, and biking. The fog horns across the harbor create a misty atmosphere, revealing gray-shingled cottages. Winters are serene and comfortable, ideal for curling up by the fireside with a view of the snowy moors. Simple pleasures and natural beauty make Nantucket an ideal escape from mainland life.
