159 Brattle Street Cambridge — Photo 1 of 29
Recent Drop: $850,000
$4,950,000
159 Brattle Street, Cambridge, MA 02138
Cambridge, MA 02138 — West Cambridge
Beds
10
Baths
2.5
SqFt
6,449
Style
Single Family
Built
1685
The iconic Hooper-Lee-Nichols House, built c.1685 and recognized as the second-oldest home in Cambridge, now seeks its next chapter. The three-story Georgian structure is distinguished by its central chimney and balanced proportions. Set on an expansive 18,012± sq. ft parcel, the house is sited well back from the street with a detached carriage house/garage accessed from Kennedy Road. Today it stands as the headquarters of History Cambridge and though it is currently configured for office use, future owners will have the opportunity to reimagine the interiors as a grand private home. The property is protected by historic preservation measures ensuring its integrity for generations to come. An easement held by the Massachusetts Historical Commission safeguards important interior features, while its location within the Old Cambridge Historic District safeguards the exterior. The Hooper-Lee-Nichols House is an invitation to stewardship—an opportunity to carry forward a 340-year legacy.
Key facts
It was listed on March 23, 2026. The price has come down from an original $5,800,000 to $4,950,000, most recently on September 21, 2026. The annual property taxes are $46,860 (2025 tax year). It sits on a 0.41-acre (18,012 sq ft) lot.
Market Value Analysis
* Analysis is based on 24 actively listed and recently sold comparable properties strictly within Cambridge, MA.
Property Details
Financials
Parking
Interior Specifications
Climate & Utilities
Building & Exterior
Property & Lot
Geography
Property History
$4,950,000
Was $5,800,000
Sep 21, 2026
MLS® 73490272
$5,800,000
Mar 23, 2026
MLS® 73490272
Questions about this home
When was 159 Brattle Street, Cambridge listed?
159 Brattle Street, Cambridge was listed on March 23, 2026.
Has the price of 159 Brattle Street, Cambridge changed?
The price has come down from an original $5,800,000 to $4,950,000, most recently on September 21, 2026.
What are the property taxes for 159 Brattle Street, Cambridge?
The annual property taxes for 159 Brattle Street, Cambridge are $46,860 (2025 tax year).
How big is the lot at 159 Brattle Street, Cambridge?
159 Brattle Street, Cambridge sits on a 0.41-acre (18,012 sq ft) lot.
What is the status of 159 Brattle Street, Cambridge?
159 Brattle Street, Cambridge is actively listed for sale.
Population
38,509
U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2024 5-Year Estimates (B01003)
Median Household Income
$120K
U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2024 5-Year Estimates (B19013)
Renter-Occupied Homes
58.1%
U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2024 5-Year Estimates (B25003)
New Construction Permits — Middlesex County
2,698 housing units permitted in the last 12 months (+3% vs the prior 12 months) — 1,713 in 5+ unit buildings
U.S. Census Bureau, Building Permits Survey (through Jul '26)
ADU Potential
Massachusetts allows one accessory dwelling unit by right in single-family zoning districts statewide (M.G.L. c. 40A §3; 760 CMR 71.00, effective Feb 2025). Estimated maximum ADU size for this property: 900 sq ft (the lesser of 900 sq ft or half the 6,449 sq ft principal dwelling). Lot size: 18,012 sq ft.
Based on listing data, which indicates the property type — not the zoning district. Local dimensional, septic (Title 5), and historic-district requirements still apply. Not legal advice — verify with the municipality.
Listing Agent: Monahan Barker Team
Listing Office: LandVest, Inc., Ipswich
MLS® Number: 73490272
