$957,488Average Value$525Average Price per Sq Ft52Homes For Sale
A historic coastal city on the Cape Ann peninsula
Dubbed le Beau port, or the beautiful harbor, by 17th-century French explorer Samuel de Champlain, Gloucester is chiefly recognized for picturesque, nautical landscapes. Now, it’s featured on CNN’s 2023 list of top small cities in America for its prototypical, New England village feel set on the rocky coasts and sandy shores of Cape Ann. "It's a city that you don't need to leave. There's entertainment, grocery stores, live theater and fabulous restaurants," says Ruth Pino, a Gloucester resident and Realtor with Re/Max Beacon. "It's authentic and it's a very caring community."
As the oldest seaport in the United States, Gloucester is known for its fishing industry and rich maritime history. Major companies here include the Gloucester Marine Genomics Institute and Gorton’s of Gloucester, the inventors of frozen fish sticks. About 36 miles from Boston by car or commuter rail, Gloucester houses both seasonal and year-round residents looking to trade in the big-city lifestyle for a seaside retreat.
The Gloucester Fishermans Memorial was built in 1925 as a tribute to it's maritime history.
Annisquam Light was serves as the beacon for the rocky shores.
Gorton’s of Gloucester, is a majpr company and inventor of frozen fish sticks.
Gloucester's commuter rail station gives quick access to Boston.
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Home to the oldest art colony in America
The area's remarkable scenery has inspired countless artists, authors and movie directors, bringing a thriving art scene to the city. Wolfgang Peterson’s “The Perfect Storm” was filmed in Gloucester, and Edward Hopper created a collection of paintings depicting the landscape. "People really want to come for the ocean and the art,” Pino says. “We're a huge art community. We have the first art colony in the country, that's called Rocky Neck.” This community on the south side of the Inner Harbor is home to dozens of painters, potters, photographers and jewelers. Visitors can explore the galleries and exhibitions or attend workshops and drawing classes at the Cultural Center at Rocky Neck in East Gloucester. Just up the street from Rocky Neck, the Gloucester Stage Company, a professional, non-profit theater, puts on contemporary and classic plays in a century-old warehouse.
Painters and artists can be found working outside in the Rocky Neck Art Colony.
Visitors can explore exhibitions at the Cultural Center at Rocky Neck in Gloucester.
Annisquam folks can view the largest collection of art on Cape Ann at North Shore Arts Assoc.
The wooden pile, Annisquam Bridge attracts local painters with its charm.
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Relaxing on Good Harbor Beach and learning about maritime history
Gloucester has several parks and recreational facilities, from the Stacy Boulevard waterfront promenade in Central Gloucester to the Cape Ann YMCA. Hikers and cross-country skiers can head to Magnolia Woods Recreational Area or Ravenswood Park. West Gloucester 's Stage Fort Park is the historic site of Gloucester's first settlers and features sandy beaches, athletic courts and a playground. Good Harbor, Niles and Wingaersheek beaches are popular spots for swimming, lighthouse views and exploring sand bars. Plenty of marinas and boatyards dot the coast, and numerous fishing charters operate out of the area. For those more interested in learning about the city’s fishing history, the Maritime Gloucester museum offers marine science and sailing exhibits. Museum visitors can also hop on the Ardelle, a 55-foot schooner operated by the Maritime Heritage Charters.
Residents enjoy using the gym facilities at the new YMCA in Gloucester.
Dogs savor a good walk at Raveswood in Gloucester.
Stage Fort Park in Gloucester has a large playground that over looks the waterfront.
People from all over the North Shore come to relax on Good Harbor Beach in Gloucester.
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Seafood restaurants on the water and authentic dining on Main Street
Downtown Gloucester is the city's central hub for shopping and dining. Cafes and vintage brick restaurants line Main Street and serve fresh Massachusetts Bay seafood, Italian and Mexican dishes. Seaport Grille has become an area classic for its surf n’ turf menu and waterfront patio. Shops downtown sell music, books, clothing and toys out of small, locally owned boutiques, and big-box stores are available at shopping centers like Gloucester Crossing.
Seaport Grille in Gloucester serves New England classics in a waterfront setting with views.
Try out an Igloo with a water view while dining at Mile Marker One in Gloucester, MA.
You can find residents greeting the bears that sit outside Toodeloos Toy shop in Gloucester.
Floating Lotus in Gloucester sells unique clothing, woodcarvings, and instruments.
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Multi-million-dollar estates on the water and landlocked cottages
Buyers can opt for homes in the densely populated downtown area or search for more square footage in neighborhoods like Annisquam and Magnolia. There are very few modern homes in the city, and many are over a century old. Styles range from cottages and Cape Cods to Victorian builds and contemporary mansions. Two-to-three-bedroom homes often fall between $300,000 and $700,000, while housing on the waterfront and elaborate inland estates sell from $1 million to $5.5 million. Condos in complexes or multifamily properties tend to start around $200,000 and can surpass $1 million, depending on proximity to the water. Luxury townhouses in communities such as Riverview can reach about $2.5 million.
Annisquam is famous for its lovely seaside homes.
Cute Cape Cods make up the streets of the Annisquam neighborhood.
Gloucester is home to many beautiful Victorians like this, which inspired a Hopper painting.
Condos in complexes in Gloucester typically start at 200 thousand dollars.
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Easy access to all of Cape Ann
Residents can easily get to nearby shopping and dining by foot, but the city also has a public transportation system. The Cape Ann Transit Authority provides several bus routes that also operate in Rockport and Beverly. The Newburyport/Rockport commuter rail line runs through the Gloucester train station. For residents who prefer to drive themselves, the commute to Salem is just 17 miles south, and Boston is about 36 miles away. The Yankee Division Highway serves as a major thoroughfare on and off the peninsula and intersects with Interstate 95 in Lynnfield. Flights take off from Boston Logan International Airport, under 35 miles away.
Gloucester Public Schools and private schools in Beverly
The Gloucester Public Schools district earns a B-minus on Niche and consists of one preschool, four elementary schools, one middle and one high school. High school students can choose from several career vocational and technical education programs, as well as the Marine Corps JROTC program. The closest private-school options are about 15 miles away in Beverly.
West Parish School has an overall grade of B on Niche in Gloucester.
Plum Cove School serve Gloucester's youngest students.
O'Maley Middle is a public school located in Central Gloucester.
Gloucester High School gets an overall grade of B on Niche.
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Gloucester’s crime and weather patterns
According to the FBI, property crime rates are lower than national and state averages. Violent crime rates have fluctuated in the last five years, and as of December 2023, Gloucester saw less violent crime than the U.S. as a whole, but slightly more than Massachusetts.
Summers in Cape Ann can get hot, and the city can get some heavy snow in the winter. Residents are encouraged to shovel snow and ice from their sidewalks within 24 hours of a storm. Flooding can be another environmental risk, and houses near the water often require flood insurance.
Written By
Grace Pitney
Photography Contributed By
Amanda Beattie
Video By
Ruo Zheng
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Caroline Morson,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Gloucester, MA sell after 38 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Gloucester, MA over the last 12 months is $716,500, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
At 80 Prospect St U:7 in Gloucester, MA, this 2 bedroom / 2 bathroom condominium presents a refined living experience across 1575 square feet. This attractive property, maintained in great condition, offers an exceptional opportunity for discerning individuals seeking sophisticated urban living. The kitchen is thoughtfully appointed with stainless steel appliances, providing a functional and
NEW CONSTRUCTION! First showing Friday 7/30 5-6 PM. Beautifully designed 2 bed 2.5 bath townhouse. Ground level features large kitchen/dining. Stylish flush cabinets, quartz countertops & full backsplash, stainless steel appliances, induction cooking. Living room with custom built-ins & fireplace leads to private balcony. Private entry with soaring foyer and 1/2 bath. Rich hardwood floors &
Exceptional waterfront living on the Mill River, this 2021-built contemporary home offers beautiful unobstructed riverfront views with glimpses extending toward Wingaersheek Beach and Ipswich Bay. Thoughtfully designed with 4 bedrooms and 4.5 baths, the home features an expansive open-concept layout centered around a dramatic great room that flows seamlessly onto a spacious deck, perfect for
New Construction — A rare opportunity to own one of only two beautiful oceanside units across from Hodgkins Cove. Built by the Larkin Family Builders, known for high-end quality workmanship, this light-filled coastal home offers wonderful ocean views, an open living space, gourmet kitchen, striking fireplace, designer finishes, private outdoor areas, and four covered parking spaces beneath the
Experience the best of East Gloucester in this charming home, ideally located just moments from iconic Good Harbor Beach and all the amenities this highly sought-after neighborhood has to offer. Filled with character and natural light, the home features a beautiful sun sunroom, charming custom built-ins, hardwood floors, and an inviting open-concept layout perfect for everyday living and
Seller is offering a $10,000 closing cost credit. Perfectly positioned in the heart of historic downtown Gloucester, this sun-filled 2-bedroom,1-bath Colonial townhouse-style pet friendly condo with designated parking offers the ideal blend of charm, updates, and location. The home features hardwood flooring in the kitchen, living area, and stairs, along with carpeting in both bedrooms. Skylights
Built in 2022 and thoughtfully designed with quality craftsmanship throughout, this stunning 2-bedroom townhome offers the perfect blend of modern coastal style and easy beachside living. Featuring high-end appliances, upscale finishes, and an open, light-filled layout, every detail was carefully curated for comfort and style. Enjoy the convenience of garage parking, in-unit laundry, radiant
Offered for the first time in over six decades, 8 Atlantic Road is a beloved coastal retreat just 1/10 mile from the Good Harbor Beach footbridge. Its enviable East Gloucester location offers a rare opportunity on the Back Shore. The home retains its classic character and features a remarkably spacious primary suite. Out back, a beautifully landscaped, fenced yard unfolds around a large sparkling
Enjoy breathtaking, ever-changing ocean views stretching across Eastern Point and beyond. Set in one of Gloucester’s most picturesque locations, this charming property offers unobstructed water vistas and a truly memorable coastal lifestyle. Rich in character, the home is surrounded by lush, professionally landscaped gardens, a welcoming patio, beautiful flowering trees, and vibrant perennial
Kristin FrancoeurGibson Sotheby's International Realty
Moments from the pristine shores of Wingaersheek Beach, this beautifully maintained three bedroom, two and a half bath home offers the perfect weekend retreat, seasonal escape, or year round coastal residence. Set in a picturesque setting with views of the Jones River, the property is filled with natural light and features hardwood floors with comfortable living spaces throughout including a
Looking for a woodland wonderland to build your dream home? This consists of 2.05 acres of improved land with driveway, upgraded private well, cleared building envelope, stone walls and privacy borders. The Soil Test results are for a four bedroom system, buyer is responsible for septic design. The Zoning is R-80, requiring 100 feet of frontage and 80,000.00 square feet of land for a single
Iconic and storied East Gloucester location with amazing potential! First floor commercial condo unit is formerly Duckworth's Bistrot. This space could be a restaurant, office or business. Consists of a large great room with beautiful floor to ceiling windows, half bath, kitchen and washroom. Outdoor space currently holds a walk-in refrigerator but could be a patio space. You are in the heart of
Imagine living where every day feels like a vacation. Tucked away on a quiet dead-end street and abutting Stage Fort Park, this ideally located home offers the opportunity to enjoy one of Gloucester's most sought-after neighborhoods. Leave the car behind and take a short stroll to Half Moon Beach, Stacy Boulevard, Gloucester Harbor, downtown restaurants, boutique shopping, galleries, and
Discover a truly special coastal urban living experience at 5 Babson St. Unit 1. Sited on private 1.19 acre hilltop lot surrounded by woods and yard overlooking Gloucester Harbor, Ten Pound Island and City! Spacious attractive 2 BR 2 BA 1st floor 1 level condo comprising 2279 SF living area with many original features retained including built ins, hw floors, wainscotting, and 2 working fireplaces
Best opportunity of the year. 7,400 SF building lot in Riverdale with active building permit for construction of a single family home with one car garage. Utilities including public sewer, water and electric are nearby. The lot is staked at its four corners and the four corners of the dwelling footprint. The design on file adheres to R-10 zoning setbacks. The design is for a three bedroom,
***SEASONAL RENTAL SEPTEMBER 8 - MAY 9, 2027*** Charming three-bedroom home in quaint Annisquam Village available October 1 through May 31, 2027. Recently renovated with hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances, and marble countertops. Features a large three-season porch in the front and a private patio in the rear. Amenities include washer/dryer on the first floor, ample closet space, full
Be the first to live in this exceptional new construction oceanside home across from Hodgkins Cove in Gloucester. One of only two exclusive residences built by Larkin Family Builders, this light-filled coastal retreat offers over 2,650 sq. ft. of luxury living with beautiful ocean views, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, an open-concept floor plan, gourmet kitchen with oversized island, striking fireplace,
Quietly nestled at the highest point in Gloucester is the Heights at Cape Ann, an exceptional apartment home community. Stop by our onsite management office to view our one, two, and three bedroom floor plans. The Heights at Cape Ann is a pet-friendly apartment community that offers a modern fitness center, swimming pool, fire pit, resident's lounge, Wi-Fi cafe, and units with terraces boasting
Discover coastal living at its finest in this beautifully designed 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom condo, offering breathtaking waterfront views of Wingaersheek Beach and the prestigious Annisquam Yacht Club. This seaside retreat is perfectly situated for those who love the ocean. The open floor plan is flooded with natural light, showcasing panoramic water vistas from nearly every room. The spacious
Property Id: 127381 Seasonal Rental-- This lovely 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom home is located on Good Harbor beach. This family home is beautifully decorated and very well equipped. Fabulous ocean views, multiple decks. Available Nov 2026- May 2026.
Short term rental-winter furnished rental. Enjoy this beautiful costal apartment by the ocean in an amazing location! This apartment offers 3 bedrooms, 1.5 bedrooms, nice size living room and kitchen with parking up to 3 cars ! Feel the luxury of leaving in this beautiful decorated apartment and with the comfort of have Landry in unit. Also offers a private patio with breathtaking ocean views!
Beautiful home for rent. 2 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms on the Mill River. Large kitchen with slider. Extra room for home office. Off street parking and washer, dryer in unit. Everything included except oil heat. 1st, last and $600 sec deposit required. Won’t last. Call for showing.
WINTER RENTAL - Available: September 1, 2026-June 15, 2027 (Utilities Included)Tucked away along the harbor, this charming East Gloucester end-unit condo is part of a classic coastal Victorian-era complex overlooking picturesque Smith Cove and Gloucester Harbor. With its private entrance and two spacious decks, this light-filled retreat is the perfect seaside escape.Step inside
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