$1,634,937Average Value$618Average Price per Sq Ft12Homes For Sale
A seaside region of Massachusetts offering scenic views
Manchester-by-the-Sea is part of the Cape Ann peninsula in northern Massachusetts, which juts out into the Atlantic Ocean over 30 miles north of Boston. While locals might not see Casey Affleck wandering the streets like in the 2016 film that shares the region’s name, the area does offer million-dollar homes close to the waterfront. Some of these properties overlook the ocean, offshore coves and rocky outcroppings that make up the New England coastline. “There are a lot of premium properties with great views,” says Portia Green, a Realtor and principal agent with Compass. “There’s a little altitude, so it’s a little hilly here and there. It’s coastal with beach bluffs and the topography varies a bit. They’ve got that picturesque New England view out there, for sure.”
Manchester-by-the-Sea offers nearby access to those recreational areas, as well as the famous “Singing Beach” on the coastline, where the shifting sands seem to sing as the tides recede. The Yankee Division Highway carves through the north side of Manchester-by-the-Sea, as well, linking the region to Gloucester less than 8 miles east.
Manchester by the Sea boasts a lively boating culture and offers scenic views in every direction.
The Manchester-by-the-Sea community gathers together at the Library to view the solar eclipse.
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Classic New England architecture near the coastline
Most properties in the region are single-family homes, many on streets surrounding Powder House Hill Reservation in central Manchester-by-the-Sea. Homebuyers can find properties ranging from Colonial-era architecture, dating to the 17th and 18th centuries, up to more modern, custom creations nestled amid conservation land farther from the coastline. “There are a handful of properties that are newer colonial-style estates,” Green says, “and a couple of antique ones that have been restored.”
Within that broad range of architectural styles, there is a constant theme that most homes here share: large size, both in terms of lots and living spaces. The median lot size in Manchester-by-the-Sea exceeds 26,200 square feet, and the average home is over 3,100 square feet. “Homes are big and sprawling, with lots of acreage,” Green says. “Manchester-by-the-Sea has all different shapes and sizes of lots, homes and styles.” Single-family homes under $1 million are typically farther from the coast and are usually smaller ranch-style homes or bungalows. Properties on the coastline can be priced even higher. “Singing Beach has nice homes around it that are closer to $10 million-plus,” Green says. “They’re right on the coastline, looking out at the lighthouse.” Townhouses and condos are also around $1 million or more.
Prices often fall between $1 million and $2 million, and some homes can fetch upwards of $10 to $14 million. “There are higher price points, and the days-on-market number is very low,” Green says. But she also adds that potential buyers need to be ready to act quickly: “People are making cash offers. There are a lot of cash transactions and homes are moving very quickly.”
Classic New England architecture can be found on almost every street within Manchester by the Sea.
Stately homes a stones throw from the water sit on spacious lots within Manchester by the Sea.
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Recreation on the mainland or in the Atlantic
Manchester-by-the-Sea is dotted with conservation areas, which help to preserve the sense of tranquility that envelopes the area and affords residents ample opportunities to get outside. The Cheever Commons and Millstone Hill Conservation Areas sit on the north side of the Yankee Division Highway and are lined with miles of trails, while Powder House Hill Reservation offers a trail for hikers in central Manchester-by-the-Sea. The private Essex Country Club sits nearby and offers an 18-hole golf course in addition to tennis courts and a full-service restaurant. Sweeney Park also lies near the middle of the region and offers facilities for baseball and basketball, along with a skate park. Masconomo Park has a bandstand, baseball diamonds and a playground. The Manchester Athletic Club offers memberships and has tennis, pickleball, fitness and aquatics.
Various coves and points line the coastline. “If you take it from Boston out, we have sounds, bays and harbors that link up,” Geren says. “It’s this jagged, little inlet along the coast, and that coastline changes a lot.” Singing Beach is the most famous geographic feature and permits boating and swimming, within certain guidelines. “You have options for a rocky excursion or to dig up some clams, bring a chair and an umbrella and sit out all day,” Green says. “The waves wash over it, and as it recedes, it makes this really cool singing sound. There’s an ice cream stop on the way.” Other waterways, like Sawmill Brook and Causeway Brook, cut through the landscape of the region, and the Manchester Sailing Association offers programs for both youth sailors and adults.
The Athletic Club in Manchester by the Sea is a great spot to play tennis or to do a workout.
The Millstone Hill Conservation Area is a popular spot to go bird watching or hiking in Manchester by the Sea.
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Eateries situated around the New England coastline
Locals have several restaurants where they can stop within Manchester-by-the-Sea, most of them concentrated around an inlet of the Atlantic Ocean in the south-central part of the region. Boo Bird has a pub atmosphere and a menu stocked with burgers, sandwiches, appetizers and drinks. The restaurant also hosts live music. Cala’s has an array of drink options, along with build-your-own pizzas. The Laughing Gull Café is open for breakfast and lunch, offering offers pastries and sandwiches, while Captain Dusty’s Ice Cream lies on the route to Singing Beach and serves up frozen treats and coffee. Bravo by the Sea serves pizza nearby. Crosby’s Marketplace is the local stop for grocery shoppers. For more comprehensive shopping – including Target, Walmart, Lowe’s, Costco and Trader Joe’s – residents here head to the town of Danvers, about 12 miles east.
Captain Dustys's in Manchester-by-the-Sea homemade ice cream is guaranteed to make you smile.
Brows the eclectic book collection at Manchester-by-the-book in Manchester-by-the-Sea.
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Three schools in Manchester-by-the-Sea score an A-minus or better
Schools flank Lincoln Street in central Manchester-by-the-Sea, comprising a single academic pipeline that serves area students. Manchester Memorial Elementary School earns an A-minus from Niche, and kids can continue their education at Manchester Essex Regional Middle School, which also garners an A-minus rating. Manchester Essex Regional High School receives an A from Niche and shares a campus with Manchester Essex Regional Middle.
Manchester Essex Middle School gets an overall grade of A on Niche.
Manchester Memorial Elementary gets an overall grade of A- on Niche.
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Annual festivals in the summer and fall
During the late summer, Festival by the Sea takes place across several parks near the coastline. Local artists display their wares alongside vendors selling food, and the festival also includes a concert at Masconomo Park. Masconomo Park’s bandstand also hosts the Music in Masconomo Summer Concert Series, which runs most weeks from June to August. The Wobblin Gobblin Festival is held in late October and features a parade, petting zoo, hayrides and more.
Neighbors meet up to enjoy Music in Masonomo Park.
Crowds gather to hear local performers at Music in Masonomo Park..
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Traveling across New England via the Yankee Division Highway
The Yankee Division Highway, officially known as Massachusetts Route 128, runs through northern Manchester-by-the-Sea, linking with Interstate 95 around 15 miles west. Trips to Boston can range between 30 and 35 miles, depending on route. Boston Logan International Airport is just under 30 miles away. MBTA trains stop in Manchester, and trips by rail to Boston can take around an hour. For medical services, Beverly Hospital sits about 7 miles west. The region can receive around 10 inches of snow in the early parts of the year, and road-clearing services prioritize plowing the center of town and work outward to make streets passable.
Written By
Adam Cheek
Photography Contributed By
Noel Poage
Video By
Max Gilmore
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Marcie Gingle,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA sell after 68 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA over the last 12 months is $1,350,000, up 21% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Tucked away, this extraordinary 2.45-acre estate perfectly captures the essence of refined coastal living. A rare offering, the property combines serene privacy with sophisticated design, making it equally ideal as a private retreat or an exceptional family compound. The main residence exudes timeless charm, thoughtfully blending original architectural details with modern amenities. Enjoy
Kristin FrancoeurGibson Sotheby's International Realty
Beautifully updated 4 bed/2 bath home in sought after Manchester-by-the-Sea with huge yard and potential for expansion. This home has been lovingly cared for by the same family for 50 years. Recent update highlights include gorgeous new kitchen, updated baths, all new windows, refinished hardwood floors, and interior paint. First floor flows nicely from kitchen to dining area to living area,
Here is your chance. A coveted in-town location with just steps to the scenic harbor, restaurants, shops, commuter rail, and all the offerings of Manchester by the Sea. This sun-drenched end-unit townhouse features 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2 car garage, central a/c, and an open floor plan on the first floor with fireplace and access to exclusive use deck and terrace. 21 Pine Street is a lovely
Perched in an elevated enclave near Black and White beaches, this exquisitely restored 1890 Victorian captures sweeping ocean vistas and serene overland panoramas. A masterful blend of historic charm and modern refinement, the residence showcases richly detailed period millwork, gleaming hardwood floors, and a stunning rotunda that anchors the home’s timeless elegance. Designed for both grand
Kristin FrancoeurGibson Sotheby's International Realty
Seaway is an exceptional coastal estate located in desirable Manchester, just 45 minutes north of Boston. Set on nearly an acre with sweeping views of the Atlantic, this grand Colonial Revival home has been masterfully restored by renowned architectural firm Carpenter & MacNeille. The residence offers a combination of classic New England charm & refined modern living. Elegant formal spaces flow
8 Flatley Avenue is part of The Flatley Collection, an enclave of four newly built luxury homes set on a quaint side street in the heart of Manchester-by-the-Sea. Thoughtfully designed and crafted with exceptional attention to detail, this residence offers a rare opportunity to enjoy the luxury of new construction in one of North Shore’s most picturesque seaside communities. Inside, elegant
Welcome to a truly exceptional 7.4-acre oceanfront estate in Manchester-by-the-Sea, offering direct access to the soft sands of Graves Beach—your private shoreline retreat. This rare two lot property blends classic New England charm with resort-style living, featuring panoramic water views and extraordinary privacy along one of the North Shore’s most desirable coastlines. The home offers two
Welcome to this exceptional Manchester-By-The-Sea residence with outstanding curb appeal situated in a private, professionally landscaped setting. This premier custom home has been meticulously renovated by highly respected David Clough Construction - completed circa 2012. This impressive home combines old world quality with the modern features of a thoughtfully executed new construction home
Rare beachfront offering in Manchester-by-the-Sea. This authentic shingled Arts & Crafts coastal home sits directly on the sand, offering panoramic ocean views and a private beach. Ideally located near conservation land, the village, and commuter rail to Boston. Originally built c.1928 and thoughtfully renovated, the home features classic Shingle-Style details, a floor-to-ceiling fieldstone
Move right in! Amazing value in this newly renovated 1997-built home 2 miles to Singing Beach! Huge Lot! Beautiful real solid hardwood floors throughout. Tons of windows let the sun shine into this bright & airy home. 1st floor: Open Floor plan with tons of space + half bath. 2nd floor: 3 bedrooms, 2 Full designer baths, laundry area, + sitting room / home office. 3rd floor: amazing unfinished
Elegant Federal Colonial in the heart of the village, thoughtfully updated to honor its historic character while offering modern comfort. This exceptional residence features sun-drenched living spaces, wide pine floors, classic fireplaces, custom built-ins, and exquisite period details throughout. The renovated chef’s kitchen boasts granite countertops, a spacious center island, and French doors
The Kristin Francoeur Collective GroupGibson Sotheby's International Realty
MASCONOMO – A Rare Offering on Manchester’s Prestigious Gold Coast. This spacious Gambrel Colonial features five bedrooms, including a separate one-bedroom au-pair apartment over the garage, offering flexible living options for extended family or guests. Set on a level 1.5-acre lot in one of Manchester’s most sought-after neighborhoods, the property is surrounded by large, established estates and
Powder House Apartments is a community nestled in the beautiful quaint town of Manchester by the Sea, Massachusetts. This community offers a mix of studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartment homes with a wide variety of floorplans. Our residents enjoy easy living in this beautiful North Shore seaside town.Bordering the Powder House Hill Reservation, our professionally managed and maintained
ONE SCHOOL STREET. Newly renovated First Floor studio apartment in the heart of Manchester-by-the-Sea. This unit features great accessibility, hardwood flooring, Calacatta Grande quartz countertops and a modern kitchen equipped with KitchenAid and Bosch appliances. The bathroom is finished with marble tile and a glass-enclosed shower. Additional highlights include central air conditioning,
This amazing two-bedroom, one-bath apartment is ideally located at 4 Allen Avenue in Manchester-by-the-Sea. Nestled in a peaceful neighborhood, this home offers 1,100+ square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, with an open-concept layout, hardwood floors, and custom cabinetry. The modern kitchen features hardwood cabinetry and a central island, perfect for both cooking and entertaining.
SCHOOL YEAR RENTAL. Extraordinary WATERFRONT furnished home, available September - June. Located in the private enclave of Smith's Point, this quintessential Shingle style home is a dream. From the breathtaking water views to the direct access private beach & dock at the end of the lawn, homes like this are rarely available. Comfortably furnished &basked in light, boasting high ceilings &
Jeremy McElwainColdwell Banker Realty - Manchester
Perfectly located near the center of Manchester by the Sea, this beautiful three-story separate residence near the water has a modern layout, incredible high-end finishes and three floors of spacious living. A rare find on the Northshore, Twenty One Sawmill Circle has marble countertops, hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances, a gas fireplace, four large bedrooms and three full baths.
Pristine renovated first floor residence in a beautiful Victorian near the water awaits you in Manchester by the Sea! High quality finishes and hardwood floors throughout this sunny two bedroom unit in the historic center of Manchester. Thoughtfully designed with large living room, open kitchen and washer and dryer in unit. With an incredible marble kitchen, stainless steel appliances, two marble
ONE SCHOOL STREET. Newly renovated First Floor one bedroom apartment in the heart of Manchester-by-the-Sea. This unit features high ceilings, hardwood flooring, Calacatta Grande quartz countertops and a modern kitchen equipped with KitchenAid and Bosch appliances. The bathroom is finished with marble tile and a glass-enclosed shower. Additional highlights include central air conditioning, in-unit
ONE SCHOOL STREET. Newly renovated Second Floor one bedroom apartment in the heart of Manchester-by-the-Sea. This second floor sunny unit features hardwood flooring, Calacatta Grande quartz countertops and a modern kitchen equipped with KitchenAid and Bosch appliances. The bathroom is finished with marble tile and a glass-enclosed shower. Additional highlights include central air conditioning,
Prime in-town Manchester location! This spacious 2+ bedroom, 2-bath year-round rental offers ~2,500 sq ft of living space with generous rooms, wood floors, and large windows overlooking picturesque Manchester Harbor and downtown. The updated kitchen includes stainless steel appliances, a Viking gas range, and a Sub-Zero refrigerator. The primary bedroom features a walk-in closet, en-suite bath,
One of two units available for immediate rental or rent both for a great family compound. Freshly painted and updated spacious 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath condo in the heart of Manchester! Experience coastal Massachusetts real estate in Manchester-by-the-Sea on the North Shore MA, just minutes to Singing Beach, Masconomo Park, and the MBTA Commuter Rail for an easy commute to Boston. Sun-filled living
Stunning short term rental right on private beach of Magnolia Harbor .Hear the ocean waves crash from inside this lovely recently remodeled townhouse as well as from the beautiful newer deck that faces the ocean and Kettle Island where the boats moor throughout the day and night It is not only about the location and view here but the inside is just as stunning as the outside is from 2 state of
Spring pricing. Move in now and experience the best of coastal New England in this exceptional, year-round rental perched above the pristine sands of White Beach. Enjoy unparalleled blend of privacy, modern comfort, and breathtaking ocean views from nearly every room. This newly refreshed, architecturally distinctive home features three spacious bedrooms—two with ensuite baths and direct outdoor
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