$657,257Average Value$430Average Price per Sq Ft28Homes For Sale
Salem, an inclusive, bewitching city in the North Shore
Originally inhabited by the Native American tribe Naumkeag and settled by the English and Europeans in 1626, Salem has transitioned from an important seaport colony by the Naumkeag River (now called North River) to one of the American Planning Association’s 10 Great Neighborhoods in America. Perhaps in response to its past as the site of the tragic 1692 Salem Witch Trials in colonial American history, Salem has become a place where crystal shops and tarot reading parlors stand alongside eerily named places such as Mercy Restaurant, Gallows Hill Road and Witchcraft Heights Elementary School. People here are allowed to be their wonderfully weird selves, and those who are into any form of alternative spirituality will find a community of like-minded people. Others flock to Salem for its brick sidewalks and 18th-century buildings and houses, waterfront location, prominent cultural centers such as the Peabody Essex Museum and proximity to Boston.
Today, Salem has a population of about 44,541 and a median household income of $79,196. Its workforce is largely concentrated in the healthcare, social services, education and retail industries. Top employers include Salem Hospital, the city government and commonwealth, Salem State University and retailers such as Market Basket. The city has also implemented redevelopment plans and economic policies to preserve its cultural identity and strengthen heritage tourism, all while adopting sustainable practices to combat climate change.
Salem is a historic city with modern amenities and conveniences.
Crow Haven Corner offers tarot card readings near South Salem.
Mercy Tavern is a vibrant neighborhood restaurant in Salem, known for its locally sourced food.
Salem Hospital offers comprehensive medical and surgical services to the community.
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From 18th-century homes in historic districts to new condominiums
Salem’s homes sit on befitting street names such as Witch Way, Puritan Road and Witchcraft Road. The current median value for Salem’s homes is $571,000, and houses stay on the market for about 21 days before they are sold. Typically listing between $300,000 and $900,000, most properties are between 1,000 and 2,500 square feet and have limited yard space. Similarly priced townhouses, duplexes and condos in 19th-century buildings, Victorian-era triple-deckers and contemporary developments are concentrated mostly in the northwest sections of the city. Newer constructions and waterfront houses can be in the higher price range.
Known for their iconic architecture, many Federal-style mansions and Greek or Classical Revival homes in Salem Common or the McIntire Historic District date to the 1700s and the early 1800s. “The McIntire Historic District, where Chestnut Street is located, is one of the most architecturally perfect streets in America. It’s a big, wide street that has expensive houses on it, large lots, great architectural style and demeanor,” says Gary Blattberg, team leader and associate at the Gary Blattberg Team with RE/MAX in Beverly. Salem Common also features a unique collection of Victorian-era residential architecture, including Georgian and Queen Anne homes. Derby Street, another historic district along Salem Harbor, pays tribute to the city’s maritime heritage with Federal and colonial-style buildings from the 1760s to the 1820s, when Salem was a leading seaport of the country. The neighborhood is also home to the Salem Maritime National Historic Site, Derby Lighthouse, the House of the Seven Gables and the birthplace of Nathaniel Hawthorne.
Duplex homes in Salem are created out of many 19th-century buildings.
Large Federal-style mansions live on historic Chestnut Street in Salem.
Beautiful Classical Revival style homes date back to the 1700's in Salem.
A unique collection of Queen Ann style homes surround Salem Common.
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In honor of the events of the Salem Witch Trials
Salem's downtown area, about a half-mile square, is the city’s cultural epicenter, juxtaposing its historical past with modern-day happenings. Here, people can walk along the brick sidewalks dotted with red maple trees and see local shops housed in well-preserved historic buildings. The Peabody Essex Museum, a contemporary architectural masterpiece designed by architect Moshe Safdie, has acquired 22 historic buildings and holds one of the most comprehensive collections of Asian Art. Those who appreciate architecture can walk to adjoining McIntire or Salem Common neighborhoods and see Hamilton Hall, one of the city’s grandest Federal-style residences, Salem Common or the McIntire-designed Clifford Crowninsheld House.
The Salem Witch Trials Memorial honors the victims of past events while serving as an important reminder of both tragedy and humanity. The Salem Witch Museum and the Witch Dungeon Museum offer tours and interpretations of the historical episode, while entertainment venues such as Gallows Hill Museum/Theatre and the Salem Haunted Magic Show put a contemporary spin on its history.
Synonymous with the city’s maritime traditions, Salem is known for seafood fare and waterfront restaurants offering New England classics and views of the waters. Big-box retailers, grocery stores and local businesses, including Market Basket, Walmart and Home Depot, are along the city’s main thoroughfare, Highland Avenue.
The Peabody Essex Museum in Salem is one of the oldest operating museums in the country.
The Salem Witch Trials Memorial honors the 20 victims of the 1692 witch trials.
The Salem Witch Museum provides an immersive look into the historic witch trials.
Gallows Hill in Salem explores the witch trails with history, lore and special effects.
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Haunted happenings: Halloween in Salem
Halloween is when Salem really comes alive. Every year, the streets are flooded with more than half a million costumed visitors from all over the world. Events like the Endless Nights Vampire Ball, a Haunted Happenings Marketplace and a multimedia show centered around the tarot start in September, and the party continues through October 31. There are walking tours, parades and craft fairs, and the witchy museums also get a lot of traffic.
Don't forget to take a picture in front of the giant Jack at the Haunted Happenings Marketplace.
Have your tarot read at The Salem Psychic Fair.
Spellbound tours in Salem, offers historically accurate and frightening guided walking tours.
The Salem Zombie Walk kicks off in the Common Park and goes through the city.
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Waterfront parks and water activities at Salem
As a coastal city in Essex County, Salem offers miles of oceanfront and public beach access. Locals are often spotted swimming at Waikiki Beach, and Winter Island is a popular destination for boating, fishing and camping. Pickering Wharf, in Salem Harbor, is one of the best places to see sunsets and enjoy the ocean view. The waterfront Forest River Park has a baseball field, a playground and bike paths right along the harbor, and people can swim at one of the two beaches or at the park’s swimming pool. Salem Willows Park has an amusement park, a seaside promenade and space for outdoor concerts and events. Nature lovers can hike along Salem Woods Loop Trail or the Marblehead Rail Trail.
Salem's Winter Island is a popular recreation spot known for it's natural beauty.
Pickering Wharf, in Salem Harbor is one of the best places to enjoy the ocean view.
Kids in South Salem have a blast at the adventurous playground at Forest River Park.
Residents in Salem spend summer evenings at Salem Willow Park enjoying outdoor concerts.
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A comprehensive school system at Salem Public Schools
Salem Public Schools serves over 3,700 students with a student-teacher ratio of 11-to-1. With a C-plus Niche grade, the school district has four elementary schools, a K-8 academy, one middle school and one high school. Salem High School has a special preparatory academy on campus called Salem Prep High School. Here, students are equipped with internship opportunities and can take college-level courses and complete capstone assignments. In addition to an early childhood center, there is another school for those with emotional and biological disabilities, which is called New Liberty Innovation School.
Salem State University has over 10,000 students and offers over 30 undergraduate programs and more than 20 graduate degrees.
Local infrastructures and environmental factors
Salem is on Boston’s North Shore, 16 miles north of the capital city. It’s located close to Interstate 95 and U.S. Route 1, and Boston Logan International Airport is approximately 13 miles away. The MBTA commuter rail stops in Salem as part of the Newburyport/Rockport line, and the train drops people off at Boston’s North Station. Situated in the heart of the city, Salem Hospital is North Shore’s largest healthcare provider and has clinical partnerships with Massachusetts General Hospital.
Because of its coastal characteristics, Salem is affected by the growing climate changes that come with more frequent storms and rising sea levels. Many properties in the city are in designated flood zones, and homebuyers may be required to purchase flood or natural disaster home insurance.
Salem’s weather ranges from about 27 °F degrees in the winter to an estimated 81°F degrees in the summer. The city is cloudy between November and June, and snow is expected between November and April with January having the most snow, averaging about 9.2 inches. In addition, rain is expected year-round, and windy days comprise half the year, from October to April, with an average wind speed of 10.6 miles per hour.
Relatively low crime rate in Salem
Within the past year, Salem has had a total of 36 violent crimes reported, including assault and robbery, as well as 217 property crimes such as motor vehicle theft and larceny.
Written By
Christina Xu
Photography Contributed By
Amanda Beattie
Video By
Brandon Flash Craigie
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Adele Faso,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Salem, MA sell after 24 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Salem, MA over the last 12 months is $581,250, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Truly a Salem Gem! Fully gut-renovated three-family in Salem, delivered fully vacant, fully furnished with furniture included in the sale—ideal for investors, owner occupants, Airbnb or short-term rental use. Renovated from the studs up with new electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roof, windows, kitchens, and baths. Modern layouts, separate utilities, and zero deferred maintenance. Prime location near
Situated at 11 Barton St in the historic city of Salem, MA, United States, this multi-family residence presents itself as an attractive property in great condition. The kitchen invites culinary exploration with its elegant backsplash, expansive kitchen peninsula, and durable stone countertops, providing both aesthetic appeal and practical workspace for everyday living. Within the living room, a
**Offer deadline Tuesday, March 17th at 6PM - Previous Buyers got cold feet (never submitted deposit).** There's an adorable home on the corner of Loring & Chandler that caught your attention. Yes, the cute bungalow with the orange wood shakes! The home has a fully fenced-in yard w/ garage and onto a large paver patio, and it is close to convenient amenities in Vinnin Square and beaches in
Situated at 65 Washington St. in Salem, this condominium presents an attractive property in great condition. Constructed in 2020, the residence offers a contemporary living experience on the fifth floor. The thoughtfully designed open floor plan creates an expansive atmosphere, perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. Within this engaging space, the kitchen stands as a centerpiece,
This is coastal living at its best. Perfectly situated just minutes from the ocean, Forest River Park, and downtown Salem, this 2-bedroom, 1-bath condo offers an effortless blend of seaside charm and everyday convenience. Whether your mornings begin with time spent by the water, afternoons are spent in the park, or evenings unfold in the heart of the city, this location puts it all within easy
This home sits on an approximately 8,200 square foot lot and is being sold strictly AS-IS. Renovation or possible tear-down. Ideal for investors, contractors, or buyers seeking a value-add project. Three off-street parking spaces and large yard. Located minutes from downtown Salem, commuter routes, and historic attractions. Excellent opportunity in a high-demand area.
End-unit townhouse with rare three full baths and serene wooded views in one of Salem’s most beautifully maintained communities—offering 1,854 sq ft of flexible living space. The sun-filled main level features hardwood floors, fireplace, and a renovated kitchen with granite counters and center island that flows into the dining area and spacious living room with slider to a private deck
Unique opportunity to build sweat equity in a highly convenient area with easy access to downtown Salem and downtown Peabody as well as Highland Ave and Bridge St. This property offers two beds and a full bath in the original main house and the addition offers easy opportunity for a potential accessory dwelling with one bed and a full bath. Large fenced yard, off street parking for 2-3 cars make
Enjoy breathtaking water views and the ease of modern single-level living on the North Shore. This new, spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bath condominium is designed for the most discerning buyer. This residence features soaring ceilings, oversized windows, top-of-the-line finishes, and private balcony. The chef’s kitchen impresses with Bosch stainless appliances, custom cabinetry, and quartz counters and
Escape to your own private oasis only a stone's throw from the action of historic downtown Salem and the train to Boston. The luxury boutique condominiums at RIVERWALK SALEM offer the best in modern single-level living on the North Shore. RIVERWALK amenities include indoor heated parking, elevator, Clubroom Lounge, state-of-the-art fitness center, and Riverside Outdoor Kitchen/Patio. This
Strong cash-flowing 6-unit multifamily investment opportunity in desirable Salem, MA. The property generates approximately $248,724 in gross annual income and a high NOI, offering an attractive cap rate of approximately 8.5%. Based on typical financing assumptions, projected Year-1 cash flow is approximately $64,000 with a healthy DSCR of about 1.46. The building includes six residential units
Truly a Salem Gem! Fully gut-renovated three-family in Salem, delivered fully vacant, fully furnished with furniture included in the sale—ideal for investors, owner occupants, Airbnb or short-term rental use. Renovated from the studs up with new electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roof, windows, kitchens, and baths. Modern layouts, separate utilities, and zero deferred maintenance. Prime location near
MOTIVATED SELLER. Spacious upper-level townhouse with over 2,000 sq ft with 4 beds, 2 baths, an office/study room, and more. This is your opportunity to own a piece of Salem half a mile or less to the train, Salem Common, Collins Cove, the PEM, and Coffee Time Bake Shop.You're also moments from top spots like The Salem Witch Trials, Settler, and Odd Meter. Inside, find. Recent updates include
NEW CONSTRUCTION condo offering 5 rooms, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, with high-end finishes in a prime location. Enjoy this exceptional unit that features an open concept living room/kitchen . 3⁄4” wide oak hardwood floors throughout. Quartz kitchen with large island, 42” cabinets, SS Whirlpool appliances. Central air/heat with Bosch systems, Harvey windows, recessed lighting, and spray foam insulation
Step into this beautifully updated first-floor 1-bedroom apartment where historic charm meets modern comfort. Sunlight pours through generous windows, highlighting refinished hardwood floors and freshly painted walls. Imagine preparing a favorite meal in the newly renovated kitchen, featuring granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and crisp new flooring, then enjoying it in the inviting
We don't just rent apartments. From the moment you walk through the front door you'll feel the comfort that makes our residents happy to call us home. Cutting edge amenities, meticulously-groomed grounds, and a dedicated staff contributes to a higher standard of living. Convenient shopping, award-winning schools, local museums and parks are all close at hand, with sponsored activities to develop
Two bedroom, one bathroom apartment conveniently located in close proximity to all Salem has to offer but tucked away on a quiet side street! The bright first floor unit features hardwood floors, fresh paint, and recent updates to the kitchen and bathroom. The unit features a large living room and open concept kitchen, as well as a sun porch offering extra living space. The well-maintained
Rooted in the rich character of Salem and designed for modern living, Lore invites you to experience a new chapter in style and comfort. Nestled on Canal Street, these newly-constructed studio, one and two bedroom apartment homes offer designer finishes, upscale amenities, and an air of timeless intrigue. Whether you're unwinding in the speakeasy lounge, swimming in the Summer sun in the heated
Check out this amazing townhouse rental tucked away in historic Salem, MA! Welcome to the townhouses in Pickman Park! This spacious two-story home offers comfort & flexibility w/room to grow. First floor features a versatile bedroom, a bonus room perfect for a home office/guest space, or play room (formerly a garage), a half bath, laundry, & plenty of storage. Upstairs, enjoy a bright living room
Transform your lifestyle at Traders Row, where smart style meets a savvy sense of what's new and next in Salem living. Trade in hustle for haven with a home base that offers more of what matters, steps from convenient shopping and the iconic Salem Woods. Featuring one and two bedroom apartment homes, residents enjoy open floor plans and designer finishes. The amenity spaces include a resort style
Luxury 1-bedroom apartment available in downtown Salem’s renovated Peabody Building. This corner unit features exposed brick, tons of natural light, modern kitchen with stainless appliances and quartz counters, penny tile bathroom floors, in-unit laundry and central heat/AC. Building amenities include elevator, common roof deck overlooking Lappin Park, bike storage and secure key card access.
A place apart from anywhere else in Salem, yet centered in the heart of the community. Where a hip and stylish urban industrial aesthetic becomes close friends with the easygoing feel and natural beauty of the area. And exceptional amenities, including a two-story fitness center and beautifully landscaped rooftop deck with fire table and outdoor entertainment areas make coming home an exciting
Third-floor one-bedroom apartment conveniently located near Salem State University. This bright unit features spacious rooms, skylights, and wall-to-wall carpeting throughout. Washer and dryer hookups are available so tenants may bring their own machines. On-street parking. Please note there is no dishwasher or garbage disposal. Tenant is responsible for electric and oil heat. First month’s rent,
Our Princeton Crossing community in Salem, Massachusetts are located directly off of Highland Ave (Rt-107) and across the street from Salem Hospital - Mass General Brigham. Our ideal location, central to medical centers and Salem State University, and minutes to historic downtown Salem is second only to our beautiful-garden style apartment homes. Residents enjoy the comfort and convenience of our
Pet Friendly! Beautiful luxury unit featuring open kitchen / living area with high ceilings, freshly painted with maple cabinets, granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances, new vinyl plank floors throughout, central AC, washer/dryer in the unit. There is an elevator in the building and on-site parking. Rent includes hot water. Located in the heart of downtown Salem near many restaurants
Adjacent to Hampton Inn Salem, 231 Washington features 56 luxury apartments equipped with modern amenities with integrated technology, a fitness room, availability of covered/heated parking and rentable storage lockers. The perfect setting for a young professional or suburban transplant, 231 Washington is situated within walking distance of Salem’s most popular restaurants, breweries and
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