$1,744,006Average Value$628Average Price per Sq Ft22Homes 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
Deborah Purcell,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA sell after 49 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 $1,315,000, up 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Set along the inner harbor in prestigious Manchester, this rare waterfront estate offering over 4 acres of exceptional privacy, sweeping coastal views, and direct harbor access from a private dock. Beyond the gated entrance, the property unfolds into beautifully landscaped grounds for both grand-scale entertaining and quiet retreat, complete with a heated in-ground pool, tennis court, and
Stylish coastal living in the heart of Manchester by the Sea! This beautifully updated 2 bedroom,1.5 bath condo offers three levels of versatile living space in a well maintained 21 unit complex built in 2004. From the moment you enter, the home’s clean, coastal aesthetic stands out with durable stone look tile flooring throughout. The entry level offers an exceptionally spacious oversized
Welcome to 25 Bennett Street, a truly special Manchester-by-the-Sea home where character, comfort, light, and location come together. Set on beautiful grounds moments from the heart of the village, this three-bedroom home offers a wonderful sense of space and warmth, with two full bathrooms and a half bath, beautiful hardwood floors, a formal dining room, and an abundance of natural light
Set privately within Manchester-by-the-Sea’s coveted Woodholm neighborhood, this distinctive custom estate blends timeless neoclassical architecture with contemporary living. Surrounded by mature landscaping and beautifully designed outdoor spaces, the property offers exceptional privacy while remaining moments from downtown, Singing Beach, and commuter routes. A dramatic entry opens to expansive
Kristin FrancoeurGibson Sotheby's International Realty
Unique opportunity in Manchester-by-the-sea! Great in town location that has the flexibility to become your dream house. Renovate the stately main house and the legal lower level 1 bedroom apartment or start over and build exactly what you want: a 2 family or a spacious single family. Easy access to Essex County Club and a short walk to the elementary and high schools. Buyer to perform their own
Village Living. Elevated. What if the Village of Manchester were right outside your door? Brand new and effortlessly stylish, this sophisticated townhome offers the best of downtown living with thoughtfully designed spaces, high ceilings, elegant moldings, and beautiful finishes throughout. The chef-inspired kitchen is made for gathering, featuring Bosch appliances, a generous apron-front island,
Kristin FrancoeurGibson Sotheby's International Realty
NEW PRICE – 200K PRICE IMPROVEMENT. Gorgeous custom-built home in Manchester-by-the-Sea is set on a beautifully professionally landscaped lot, surrounded by extensive woodlands and miles of trails. This 4-bedroom, 5-bath residence offers a first floor primary suite and a sophisticated elegant interior. At the center of the home, a dramatic two-sided stone fireplace creates an inviting focal
Evonne BlanchardColdwell Banker Realty - Manchester
Privately set on over an acre in one of Manchester-by-the-Sea’s most sought-after coastal neighborhoods, 3 Proctor offers convenience located just 0.4 miles from Singing Beach and moments from the Village’s shops and dining. Thoughtfully designed for both grand entertaining and everyday comfort, the home showcases expansive living areas, soaring vaulted ceilings, and dramatic floor-to-ceiling
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
Set 150 feet above sea level on nearly 13 acres in one of Manchester-by-the-Sea’s most coveted locations, 370 Summer Street offers a rare opportunity to own an extraordinary North Shore estate. Reached by a long private drive, the property commands sweeping views of Kettle Cove and Crow Island. Designed by Marcus Gleysteen of MGA with interiors by Lena Fransioli of Zoe Design, the home blends
Your search for a spacious in-law suite ends here! Nestled on a private half-acre lot, this 4+ bedroom, 3.5 bath home offers abundant natural light, an inviting floor plan, and a special opportunity to enjoy the tranquility of this desirable Manchester enclave. The spacious lower level of this stylish home features a flexible space which could readily serve as an in-law suite, home office, or
Design your dream home, complete w/sewage disposal system plan, perc test, topography survey and subdivision plan approvals. 1.8 acres of land surround a quiet street on Orchard Lane. Nature-ensconced proposed 4 bedroom home site promising coveted summer simplicity by way of a remote location, all in Manchester By The Sea. Close proximity and conveniently located to commuter rail, Village,
Kristin FrancoeurGibson Sotheby's International Realty
Spacious 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath townhouse-style rental offering approximately 1,340 square feet of living space in the heart of Manchester-by-the-Sea. The main level features a bright living room, dining area, kitchen, and half bath, while the upper levels offer three generously sized bedrooms and a full bath. In-unit laundry adds everyday convenience.Ideally located just minutes from downtown
Enjoy coastal living in the heart of Manchester-by-the-Sea. This gut-renovated, beautifully appointed 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath apartment plus office offers stunning harbor views from multiple rooms and combines modern comfort with an unbeatable downtown location. The spacious layout features an open living area filled with natural light, a large, well-equipped kitchen, and the convenience of in-unit
Cape Ann coastal living at its best! Near picturesque beaches, scenic trails, and all that Manchester by the Sea has to offer, this rare find features spacious rooms, flexible living areas, and exceptional indoor/outdoor spaces designed for entertaining, relaxing, and hosting. Set on a beautiful private lot with gardens, stone walls, flowering trees, yard space, and oversized shed. Three-bedroom
Enjoy the best of Manchester-by-the-Sea from this charming and beautifully appointed one-bedroom apartment, offered for an academic year, September 1 through May 31. Located in the heart of downtown, this fun and eclectic unit offers an ideal combination of comfort, character, and convenience.The apartment is bright, clean, and thoughtfully furnished, with hardwood floors, abundant natural light,
Furnished Short- or Long-Term Rental Available! Tucked away in a peaceful, private setting, this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 1.5-bath home offers over 2,000 square feet of comfortable living space in Manchester-by-the-Sea. Thoughtfully furnished and ready for occupancy, this inviting home provides the ideal blend of privacy, space, and convenience for those seeking a short- or long-term
Enjoy coastal living in the heart of Manchester-by-the-Sea. This beautifully furnished 2-bedroom, 2-bath apartment offers stunning harbor views from multiple rooms and combines modern comfort with an unbeatable downtown location. The spacious layout features an open living area filled with natural light, a cozy fireplace, a well-equipped kitchen, and the convenience of in-unit laundry. The
Enjoy downtown Manchester-by-the-Sea living from this charming top-floor two-bedroom apartment, available on an academic year basis from September 1 through May 31. Located right in the heart of the village, this sunny and inviting home offers the convenience of being able to walk to shops, restaurants, cafés, the library, commuter rail and the waterfront, while still feeling like a private
SCHOOL YEAR FURNISHED RENTAL Enjoy living near the ocean at 5 Victoria Road in Manchester-by-the sea. Located just steps from White and Black Beaches, and a very short drive to Landmark School, Brookwood and highly rated public schools, this is an opportunity to experience the "off" season in this beautiful seaside town. This comfortable home is very well maintained. Owners will pay for water,
Enjoy an exclusive waterfront leasing opportunity in the heart of Manchester-by-the-Sea—a rare chance to lease the entire property, combining two beautifully renovated residences into one expansive 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath home. With sweeping harbor views from multiple rooms, this offering blends modern comfort, flexibility, and a coveted downtown waterfront location in one of the North Shore’s most
SCHOOL YEAR Fall 2027 SPRING 2028 10 month or possibly year rental. Manchester-by-the-Sea at its best! This beautifully furnished and recently renovated custom Colonial is available for a 9-month lease with a little flexibility in dates. The updated kitchen with large center island opens to a spacious family room, while a separate office/library provides the perfect work-from-home space or second
Bright and spacious 1,650 sq. ft. first-floor apartment in a well-maintained property in desirable Manchester-by-the-Sea. This 3-bedroom, 1-bath unit offers generously sized rooms, beautiful hardwood floors, abundant natural light and plenty of space to spread out. The apartment features a granite kitchen with white cabinetry and stainless-steel appliances, a large living room and dining area,
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