$678,219Average Value$469Average Price per Sq Ft7Homes For Sale
History and commercial activity in Salem
Downtown Salem is known for its storied past and chilling tales of witchcraft. From the cod fishermen that initially gave rise to the city’s wealth, to the Salem Witch Trials in the 1690s, there is plenty of history here. However, today's Salem offers much more than what's found in witch movies and historical documents. The downtown community is a thriving, walkable area with dozens of multi-use buildings that house local boutiques and restaurants on the ground floor, and apartments and condos above. These buildings are just a short walk from museums and historical sites, and parks are less than 2 miles from most homes. Locals also have access to Boston via the commuter rail or nearby highways. “People think that Salem is a spooky city, but it is so much more than that with the history and architecture that can be found around every corner,” says Julie Andrews, a sales associate with Keller Williams Evolution who has been serving Salem for over 10 years.
The stately town hall hosts a plethora of events, be sure to check it out when visiting Salem.
Reenactors dress the part for the Red Coat March of Leslies Retreat, one of the many historical events in Downtown Salem.
Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll speaks at the annual Red Coat March Preliminary Speaking Portion of Leslies Retreat.
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Dining options in repurposed banks and Irish pubs
Many refer to Salem as the restaurant capital north of Boston, and the majority of the city’s most popular options are in the heart of downtown. Ledger is one of the more established spots here, built out of the former Salem Savings Bank from 1818. The use of classic architecture and low lighting creates an inviting eating space. A 360-degree bar is at the restaurant’s core, so a hot order of their famous popovers and a custom seasonal cocktail are just steps away from the table. Right across the street from Ledger is O'Neill’s Pub & Restaurant, a more laid-back establishment with Irish and sports team paraphernalia lining the walls. Friends often meet up here to watch the Celtics and enjoy the pub’s famous Shepherd's pie. Next to the Salem Witch Memorial, All Souls Lounge is a bar where local store owners and residents can relax with a cocktail and order a sandwich after a long day. “I absolutely love the grilled cheese sandwiches there,” Andrews says. These popular restaurants are next to numerous boutiques and stores, many catering to visitors and tourists with their magical or witchy themes. Grocery shopping options include local stores like Steve's Quality Market and nearby chains such as Stop & Shop and Market Basket, less than 2 miles away.
Red's Sandwich Shop has been proudly serving Salem since 1945.
Locals of Downtown Salem enjoy grabbing drinks with friends at The Ledger.
Local bar goers enjoy spending nights at All Souls in Downtown Salem.
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Sidewalks and commuter rails in the downtown area
Transportation options are one of the main reasons for Salem’s popularity. The city itself is only around 8 square miles, so the entire community is walkable, especially downtown. This is further improved by streets with boutiques and restaurants being closed off to cars, increasing the amount of daily foot traffic. The Salem commuter rail station is on the northern end of the neighborhood and takes residents to Boston’s North Station in just about 30 minutes. “You have a real ability to get anywhere from Salem, whether you want to go skiing to the north or head 30 minutes to the south for Boston,” says Dan Fox, a broker with MerryFox Realty who has served the community for over 25 years. Part of this access is due to the Yankee Division Highway that is a short drive to the west of downtown. However, with all the transportation options available to residents, it is not uncommon for cars to remain in the driveway or parking lot for days at a time. Boston Logan International Airport is 16 miles to the south, and Salem Hospital is less than a mile away.
The Salem Common and Winter Island
Downtown Salem residents can walk the shaded streets to access recreation options. The closest park to the area is the Salem Common, a wide-open green space with paved sidewalks that crisscross a stone pavilion. These paths connect a shaded seating area, a popular spot for local events, to the basketball court and playset on the other side of the park. “It’s a very dog friendly area,” Andrews says, “I walk my dog there all the time.” Winter Island Park offers camping spots and boat ramps alongside the Historic Fort Pickering Lighthouse. The park is also home to Waikiki Beach, which Andrews says is quite different from the Hawaiian beach with the same name. The Salem YMCA, which fits seamlessly into the downtown area, houses numerous gyms and a pool behind its historic façade.
Salem's Winter Island is a popular recreation spot known for it's natural beauty.
Kids in Downtown Salem have a blast at the adventurous playground at Forest River Park.
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Museums and events throughout the year
In Downtown Salem, there are plenty of activities for tourists and residents, even when it is not the Halloween season. Downtown museums contribute to many of the area's happenings. The Peabody Essex Museum is the oldest continuously running museum in the country. It features historic galleries and rotating exhibits that create a labyrinth of information and art. The historic city hall is where reenactments of the Salem Witch Trials take place, and tour groups pause to learn about the city’s history. Festivals and events throughout the year include the Salem’s So Sweet Chocolate and Ice Sculpture Festival in February, where illuminated ice sculptures and chocolate competitions among local vendors take place.
The Peabody Essex Museum in Downtown Salem is one of the oldest museums in the country.
Even the youth of Downtown Salem take part in events such as the Lunar New Year Festival.
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Multifamily and multiuse buildings above Salem storefronts
Multiunit and multiuse buildings make up most of the housing options in Downtown Salem. While it may seem that there is little space for residences, a quick glance up from the ground-level storefronts reveals curtains and personal touches on windowsills. These condos and apartments are typically two- to six-story structures and share similar construction dates. Most were built in the 1980s and 1990s, but some date back as far as the early 1900s. “Even with all the historic buildings around, there are many new developments and new apartments popping up all around the city, especially by the river and the train station,” Fox says. "You really get a lot more for your money out here." Prices downtown can range from around $300,000 to $700,000, and rent often runs between $1,500 and $4,000 per month.
Music programs in Salem public schools
Students in Downtown Salem can start their education at the Carlton Innovation School, which receives a B-minus rating on Niche. They may continue on to Collins Middle School, which receives a C rating. The final stop for many students is the B-minus-rated Salem High School, which Andrews says has become known for its music and band programs. The high school band previously played at the Rose Bowl and won the New England Championship in November of 2024. Additional education options include the Salem Academy Charter School, which earns a B-plus rating and is ranked as one of the top 10 charter schools in the state.
Collins Middle School provides education to the residents in Salem MA.
Carlton Elementary School provides education in the neighborhood of Salem.
Salem High School provides education in the neighborhood of
South Salem
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Are you familiar with the Downtown Salem neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Downtown Salem
US
Homicide
4
4
Sexual Assault
4
4
Assault with Weapon
4
4
Robbery
4
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
4
4
Crime Score
4
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Downtown Salem Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Downtown Salem, Salem sell after 30 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Downtown Salem, Salem over the last 12 months is $562,500, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to the historic "William Haskell" house, a beautifully restored gem in Salem’s prestigious MCINTYRE DISTRICT This impeccably maintained home seamlessly blends timeless character with modern luxury, featuring gleaming wood floors throughout an inviting, open-concept layout. The gourmet eat-in kitchen is a chef’s dream, appointed with granite countertops, premium stainless Jenn-Air
Looking for a stylish townhouse in the heart of historic Salem? This charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath home is set back from the street for added privacy while still keeping you close to everything the city has to offer. Inside, you’ll find the convenience of in-unit laundry and a comfortable, functional layout. Step outside to your own private yard—perfect for gardening, summer BBQs, or giving your
Tucked away on a quiet dead-end street just moments from Salem’s renowned McIntire District, this 2-bedroom, 2-bath condominium offers a blend of comfort, style, and convenience in a highly desirable area. Inside, you’ll find a thoughtfully designed layout with contemporary finishes, a cozy living area, and a seamless flow ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. The current owners have
Open concept two bedroom, one bathroom penthouse condo with beautiful exposed brick, hardwood floors, large eat-in kitchen with stainless steel appliances, and in-unit laundry, This sunny corner unit features lots of windows with excellent natural light, abundant closet space, as well as additional basement storage, and one designated off-street parking space. Centrally located near Salem's
Ideally situated in Town House Square at the heart of Salem’s vibrant downtown, this sun-drenched, third-floor unit offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of the city’s architectural history.This single-story condominium perfectly combines vintage charm with modern living.The interior features gleaming hardwood floors, a well-appointed kitchen,granite countertops,open to generous dining space.
Downtown Salem living at its finest. This bright, corner one-bedroom at Central Plaza has been beautifully updated and is move-in ready. Updated features include fresh paint, recessed lighting, laminate flooring, decorative molding, stainless steel appliances, and major system upgrades, including a newer furnace and hot water heater. Additional highlights include a private balcony, extra storage,
Prime Location. Live in the center of it all! Sunny 3rd floor condo in the heart of Downtown w/Deeded Garage Parking, Storage & Elevator. Enjoy views of Crombie & Essex St from its picture window featuring; Sedona Maple wood floors, Maple cabinets, Granite, NEW SS appliances & central A/C. EV charging stations are right outside, along with additional parking. Pet Friendly. Stroll to Restaurants,
Located in the heart of downtown Salem, this renovated Samuel McIntire penthouse is full of historic character in a PRIME location. The bright living area features soaring ceilings, oversized windows, & hardwood floors that fill the space with natural light & create an open, inviting feel. The updated kitchen offers granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, sleek cabinetry, & a tile
Don't miss your chance to live in this MAGICAL building in the HEART of Salem! With LUXURY finishes, open floor plans, oversized cathedral windows and in-unit laundry, there is nothing about these units you won't fall in love with! This unit includes one garage space at Museum Park Garage. This centrally. located elevator buildiing even boasts an indoor Gym!
Property Id: 1403074An opportunity to live in a spacious one bedroom abutting the beautiful Chestnut Street district! This beautifully preserved historic home boasts original features with modern comforts. Living room floor is preserved 1740 softwood with the original fire place silhouette (chimney was removed in 1900s after a fire. Enjoy spacious rooms with high ceilings, modern
Don’t miss your chance to live in this MAGICAL LOFT in the HEART of Salem! With LUXURY finishes, open floor plans, oversized cathedral windows and in-unit laundry, there is nothing about these units you won't fall in love with! This centrally located elevator building even boasts an indoor Gym! Schedule your private showing now as this unit won't last long!
This nice 2 Bedrooms 1 Bath place in the Salem area is available for 09-01-2026. Included Features are: Laundry in Unit. 1.Boston Pads is not responsible for any errors, omissions and change in price, prior sale, rent and withdrawal without notice. All information from sources reliable but not guaranteed. Photographs, videos, description and information about the properties reflect
This nice 1 Bedroom 1 Bath place in the Salem area is available for 07-01-2026. Included Features are: Laundry in Unit. 1.Boston Pads is not responsible for any errors, omissions and change in price, prior sale, rent and withdrawal without notice. All information from sources reliable but not guaranteed. Photographs, videos, description and information about the properties reflect
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.
Spacious 2 Bedroom, 2 Full bath Condo offers carefree living in this elevatored brick building in the Heart of Downton Salem. Be just steps to shops, restaurants, cafes and nightlife. Minutes to the Commuter Rail and Rts. to Boston. This unit is Updated and Newly Painted throughout boasting great natural light, and western sunsets. . Enjoy cooking in the Galley Style kitchen with granite and SS
Don’t miss this beautiful one-bedroom in the heart of downtown Salem available now! Located right in the middle of Salem’s vibrant restaurants, boutique shops, scenic harbor, and the commuter rail with direct service to Boston. This fabulous one-bedroom condo offered for rent provides the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and style. Inside, you’ll find a bright open floor plan featuring
Live in the heart of the Historic McIntire District in this bright, sun-filled condo rental! This inviting 1 bedroom unit offers a spacious living room plus a bonus room - perfect for a home office, reading nook, or dressing space. Gleaming hardwood floors add warmth throughout, with tile flooring in the kitchen. The fully-applianced kitchen features granite counters and room for a small table
Cozy and charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath apartment located minutes from downtown Salem’s restaurants, shops, Pickering Wharf, and the commuter rail—perfect for convenience and lifestyle. This well-maintained unit features an updated kitchen and bath, all newer appliances, freshly repainted walls, and beautiful hardwood floors throughout. Large windows fill the space with natural sunlight, while
Beautifully renovated one bedroom apartment in just steps to historic downtown Salem. This is a lower level apartment but very bright and clean! NO pets or smoking of any kind. HEAT AND HOT WATER INCLUDED!! Tenant must have good references and credit.
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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