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Essex, MA Home for Rent

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    $3,000 Per Month

    • 2 Beds
    • 1 Bath
    • 1,000 Sq Ft
    • Apartment for Rent

    156R Eastern Ave Unit 2, Essex, MA 01929

    Available now for lease. Renovated 2-bedroom, 1-bath rental in Essex featuring an open-concept layout with vaulted ceilings, skylights, and abundant natural light. Updated kitchen with center island seating, modern finishes, and ample cabinet space. Additional features include mini-split A/C, wide plank flooring, in-unit laundry, designated parking spaces, and beautiful outdoor space.

    The Kristin Francoeur Collective Grou Gibson Sotheby's International Realty

    156R Eastern Ave Unit 2, Essex, MA 01929

Why Live in Essex

Essex, Massachusetts, retains its historic coastal charm, rooted in its shipbuilding origins. Known for its high-quality clam beds, Essex is a regional destination for seafood, with iconic spots like Woodman's of Essex, famous for inventing the fried clam. The town also boasts a reputation for antique shops, though residents often travel 15 minutes to Gloucester for grocery shopping. The Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum offers a glimpse into the town's rich maritime history, hosting events and social clubs. Annual celebrations like Essex River Day and the Essex Clamfest, featuring a clam chowder competition, are community highlights. Outdoor activities are abundant, with cross-country skiing in winter and boating in warmer months, supported by local marinas like Pike Marine. The Manchester Essex Regional School District, formed through a merger with Manchester-by-the-Sea, includes highly rated schools: Essex Elementary School, Manchester Essex Regional Middle School, and Manchester Essex Regional High School. Housing options range from smaller, older colonial homes in town to larger properties with estuary views, though prospective buyers should be aware of the higher flood risk in certain areas. Commuting to Boston involves a 30-mile drive, typically taking 45 minutes to over an hour, while Gloucester and Beverly, offering major amenities, are 7 and 10 miles away, respectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to rent a home in Essex, MA?
The median rent for a home in Essex, MA is $3,000 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of May 2026, condos tend to be the most affordable option while single-family homes are currently more expensive.
How much do you need to make to afford rent in Essex, MA?
To comfortably afford the median rent in Essex, MA, a household needs to earn roughly $120,000 per year. This is based on the common guideline that households should spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing. Most landlords require monthly household income of at least 3x the monthly rent, and with a median rent of $3,000 per month in Essex, MA, renters typically need to show $9,000 per month in gross income to qualify. Actual affordability will vary depending on household debts, other living expenses, and overall budget.
Is it more affordable to rent or buy in Essex, MA?
In Essex, MA, the price-to-rent ratio is 22.8, which generally favors renting. This ratio divides the median home price by the annual median rent: below 15 typically favors buying, 15 to 20 is balanced, and above 20 typically favors renting. Your finances, how long you plan to stay, and costs like mortgage rates, taxes, and maintenance all factor into the decision.
What neighborhoods in Essex, MA are best for renting a home?
The best neighborhood for renting in Essex, MA depends on your priorities: commute, walkability, budget, and lifestyle all play a role. Popular areas for renting a home include West Gloucester, Central Gloucester, North Beverly, East Gloucester and Gloucester Crossing, each with its own character and price range.

Rental Home Trends in Essex, MA

Rental Home Trends

Number of Homes for Rent
1
Median Rent
$3,000
Median Single Family Home Rent
$3,500
Median Condo Rent
$1,850
How to Rent a Home