They share a name, a border and a lot of history. Until 1855, North Andover was actually part of Andover! Today they’re two of the most popular towns in the Merrimack Valley, and buyers often have both on their list. So how do you choose? Here’s a side-by-side look.
At a Glance
| Andover | North Andover | |
|---|---|---|
| Distance to Boston | About 23 miles | About 24 miles |
| Population | About 37,000 | About 31,000 |
| Typical home price | Median sale price about $932,000 (Sept. 2026) | Median list price about $837,000 (Oct. 2026) |
| Residential tax rate | $12.31 per $1,000 (FY2026) | $11.26 per $1,000 (FY2025) |
| Commuter rail | Two stations: Andover and Ballardvale | No station in town; Andover and Lawrence stations are close by |
| Highways | I-93 and I-495 | I-495, Routes 114 and 125 |
| Public schools | 5 elementary, 3 middle, Andover High | 5 elementary, 1 middle, North Andover High |
Price figures come from different sources and measures, so use them as a general guide.
Andover: Classic Downtown and Easy Commuting
Andover’s walkable Main Street is the heart of town, with shops, restaurants and a weekend farmers’ market in season. With two commuter rail stops and both I-93 and I-495, it’s one of the easiest towns in the area for getting to Boston or the Route 128 corridor.
You’ll find everything from historic homes in Shawsheen Village and Ballardvale to newer neighborhoods in West Andover. The town is also home to Phillips Academy and the free Addison Gallery of American Art. Andover tends to run a bit higher on price, and homes move quickly. Plus the amazing nature trails and outdoor opportunities with the AVIS (Andover Village Improvement Society) association
North Andover: Small-Town Charm and Open Space
North Andover has a slightly quieter, more pastoral feel. The historic Old Center, with its town common and North Parish Church, hosts favorite traditions like the spring Sheep Shearing Festival and the fall festival. Lake Cochichewick, the town’s water supply, is surrounded by protected land like Weir Hill and Osgood Hill.
You’ll find farms like Smolak Farms for pick-your-own fruit, the Stevens-Coolidge House & Gardens, and Merrimack College, which brings concerts and events to town. North Andover generally offers a bit more home for the money and a slightly lower tax rate.
Which Town Fits You?
Andover might be your best fit if you:
- Commute to Boston by train
- Want a walkable downtown with lots of restaurants and shops
- Love having lots of trails and conservation land right in town
North Andover might be your best fit if you:
- Want a little more home or land for your budget
- Love a historic, small-town center and farm-stand feel
- Mostly drive, especially on I-495 toward Lowell, Haverhill or New Hampshire
The good news? You can’t go wrong with either. Both share Harold Parker State Forest and the Ward Reservation, and it’s only a few minutes from one town center to the other.
Still Deciding?
Ron Carpenito and the Prime Property Team have helped buyers and sellers in both towns for over 20 years. Reach out to start a conversation, and we’ll help you compare neighborhoods, schools and prices so you can find the town that fits your life.
Featured photo: NAThroughTheLens, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
