The stately town hall hosts a plethora of events, be sure to check it out when visiting Salem.
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 However, today's Salem offers much more than what's found in witch movies and historical documents.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.
Red's Sandwich Shop has been proudly serving Salem since 1945.
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'Neil’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, 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.
The Samantha statue in Salem is one of the most photographed statues in town.
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.
Salem's Winter Island is a popular recreation spot known for it's natural beauty.
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.
The Peabody Essex Museum is truly fantastic museum to visit when in Salem.
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.
A number of classic Federal Style homes line the sun soaked streets of Salem.
Multifamily and multiuse buildings above Salem storefronts
Multi-unit and multi-use 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
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City living at its finest in heart of downtown Salem, unique tri-level corner 2-bed, 2-bath unit. Private entry staircase leads to bright, sun-lit rooms, historic charm w/ exposed brick, soaring hi ceilings, original wooden beams, exposed metal ductwork. Beautiful wood flooring thru-out. Open-concept kitchen features floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances. Next
Live in the heart of downtown Salem at The Essex! This 2nd-floor 2 bed/2 bath corner unit offers privacy and city views, tucked at the end of the corridor. The open floor plan flows from the kitchen to dining to living area, where French doors open to a Juliette balcony. Enjoy generous closet space, in-unit laundry, and a layout designed for easy living. The Essex is a professionally managed
Words fall short describing the Grandeur of The Residences at Museum Place. Sophisticated "Penthouse" bi-level, 5 rm/2 bdrm, 2 1/2 bath condominium in C.1913, Brick Georgian Colonial/Federal Architectural Gem in the Heart of Downtown Salem. Original Salem Police Sta., converted 2005 into award winning condominiums in elevatored bldg. Unit 10 has a Chef's Kitchen w/ new quartz counters & SS
Welcome to this updated PH unit in the desirable Central Plaza complex located in the heart of downtown Salem. Unit is in close proximity to public trans., MBTA, shops, restaurants, Salem waterfront, inc. the ferry to Boston & all downtown Salem has to offer. Unit features 2 BR with ceiling fans, 2 fully renovated baths w/an open concept kitchen/LR & DR area. Kitchen has a large walk in pantry,
This nice 2 Bed 1 Bath place in the SALEM area is available for 09-01-2025. 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 conditions
Walk Score of 98 "Walker's Paradise". It doesn't get more downtown than this in the heart of Salem's thriving culture. Steps to the commuter rail, countless restaurants, shops, all the local attractions and a short drive to local beaches but you can take the Salem Skipper for $2 to anywhere in town and most of neighboring Beverly. Fully renovated with beautiful details, gas cooking but high
This 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment at 32 Lynde St offers a total of 480 square feet of living space. The living room provides a functional area for relaxation and entertainment. The bathroom includes standard fixtures for convenience. The bedroom is designed for privacy and comfort. This property is smoke-free, ensuring a healthier living environment. The exterior features a well-maintained
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Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Renters
Demographics
Total Population
2,668
Median Age
43
Population under 18
15.5%
Below the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
21.7%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$72,810
On par with the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$104,156
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
94.2%
College Graduates
62.3%
Significantly above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
25.9%
Above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
72.5%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
48''
Average Winter Low Temperature
17°F
Average Summer High Temperature
80°F
Annual Snowfall
26''
Area Factors
Very Bikeable
Bike Score®
84/ 100
Walker's Paradise
Walk Score®
98/ 100
Some Transit
Transit Score®
42/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
