$691,387Average Value$459Average Price per Sq Ft17Homes 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 However, today's Salem offers much more than what's found in witch movies and historical documents.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 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Downtown Salem, Salem over the last 12 months is $570,000, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Located in a prime location in the heart of historic Salem,(2026 marks Salem's 400th anniversary!) this beautifully updated one level condo offers the ideal balance of sophisticated modern living and timeless New England character. Steps to Salem Common, downtown restaurants, boutiques, galleries, museums, the waterfront, ferry service to Boston and COMMUTER RAIL! Salem’s rich colonial seaport
Grand Federal townhouse offering four floors of gracious living on Salem's celebrated Chestnut Street. Generously scaled living and dining rooms showcase original woodwork and elegant King of Prussia marble mantels. A pair of dramatic 9-foot doorways in the dining room open to a deck with steps to the garden below, creating seamless indoor-outdoor living. Reflecting the home's thoughtful design,
Michael SelbstGibson Sotheby's International Realty
Experience the best of downtown Salem from this sprawling 3-bedroom condo offering over 2,300 sq. feet of living space in the heart of the city! A gracious entrance hall & elegant staircase create the welcoming feel of a single-family home before giving way to a breathtaking loft-inspired living space. Soaring ceilings, a dramatic 40-foot corner living-dining room, a gas fireplace, and 7
Michael SelbstGibson Sotheby's International Realty
Stunning end-unit townhouse in a premier downtown Salem location, quietly situated on one of the city’s most desirable streets within a beautifully maintained, 100% owner-occupied complex. Completely renovated from the studs out in 2026, this 4-bedroom, 3-full-bath residence offers elevated design, refined finishes, gleaming hardwood floors, soaring ceilings, and exceptional natural light
Presenting 2 Andover Street, Unit B, a remarkable ~2300 sq ft, 3-story townhouse nestled in the heart of the Historic McIntire District. The stately Beckford-Whipple House, circa 1739, offers the perfect mix of historic charm and modern convenience. Step inside this distinguished home and enjoy the gorgeous original wide plank pine floors, 7 original fireplaces, custom built-ins, and excellent
Unique opportunity to own the historic Captain Nathaniel Osgood House, an elegant brick seven-family property built in 1815 and prominently situated within Salem's highly sought-after McIntire District. Rich in period charm and architectural character, the property consists of three (3) one-bedroom units, one (1) two-bedroom unit, and two (2) spacious one-plus-bedroom units. Each units showcases
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
Rare opportunity to own a beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath condominium in Salem's sought-after Historic District. Ideally located just blocks from vibrant downtown Salem, this home offers convenient access to renowned restaurants, boutique shopping, galleries, waterfront parks, Salem Common, Derby Wharf, Salem Willows, and the MBTA Commuter Rail (less than two miles away) with direct
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
Well located 1787 Gambrel office building directly across from courthouse , 1 block to train and parking garage. Currently used as Attorney At Law Office. Huge plus is the off street parking allowing for 2 car tandem parking. The building also has central air and is within moments to banks, restaurants. Very high "in and out" index. BUyers and buyers agent should determine of a change of usage is
Located in Salem's prestigious McIntire District, this remarkable six-family Georgian Colonial, built circa 1735, presents a rare opportunity to own a significant piece of the city's architectural history. The Property consists six (6) residential units comprised of four (4) one-bedroom apartments, one (1) two-bedroom apartment, and one (1) studio.The Essex Street-facing apartments showcase an
Penthouse living in the heart of historic downtown Salem — a bright one-bedroom-plus-office condo with deeded parking, steps from the shops, restaurants, and nightlife and just a half mile to the Salem commuter rail station. This updated top-floor home features hardwood floors throughout, cathedral ceilings, central A/C, a large eat-in kitchen, custom closet system in the primary bedroom, and a
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 can include one garage space for a nominal fee. This centrally located elevator building even boasts an indoor Gym!
1 bedroom condo in the heart of downtown Salem, set in a charming brick building with natural light throughout walk to restaurants, pubs, shops, museums, and the waterfront.- Less than a 5-minute walk to the commuter rail; ferry to Boston about 20 minutes on foot- Large bay window with beautiful hardwood floors throughout- Gas stove- Direct deck access- In-unit
Don’t miss your chance to live in this MAGICAL building in the HEART of Salem! With LUXURY finishes, an open floor plan, parking and in-unit laundry, there is nothing about this unit you won't fall in love with! This centrally located elevator building even boasts an indoor Gym! Schedule your private showing now as this apartment won't last long!
AVAILABLE November 1st 2026. Fully furnished Room in a house for rent. Electricity, heat, hot water, high speed wireless, central, air cable TV, laundry in unit and gas all INCLUDED in rental price. One bedroom with private ensuite full bathroom. Bedroom has walk in closet. The private bedroom/private bath is in a three bedroom luxury condo in quiet neighborhood walk to downtown Salem and
LOW MOVE IN COST!! Bright Sunny 1 bedroom located right in the heart of downtown Salem. This prime location grants immediate access to the T, Shopping, Restaurants, Public Transportation, Museums and More! This unit features new flooring, updated kitchen with granite countertops, and large windows. The building and grounds are professionally maintained and feature a private parking lot with video
Jared McBrideBetter Homes and Gardens Real Estate - The Masiello Group
Who needs all the space when you're always working!Small Studio Available NOWHot Water IncludedUNFURNISHED STUDIO WITH A PRIVATE BATHROOM, NEW CABINETS, A SINK, UNDER THE COUNTER REFRIGERATOR AND TWO BURNERS ....OVERLOOKING BEACON STREET.
Welcome to **16 Cherry St, Salem**! This spacious two-level townhouse offers **5 oversized bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms**, providing plenty of room for comfortable living. Featuring **beautiful hardwood floors throughout**, this home combines classic charm with generous living space. Conveniently located in a **prime Salem location**, you'll enjoy easy access to shopping, dining, public
Unbeatable location for this updated one bedroom plus office penthouse unit in the heart of downtown Salem with assigned off-street parking, in-unit laundry, central air, and a private deck! This updated unit has hardwood floors throughout and a recently renovated bathroom with newer Bosch washer and dryer. Off the living room with vaulted ceilings you will find a bonus room perfect for a home
Welcome to Downtown Salem ** Available September 1st ** This charming condo apartment blends antique style with modern urban living. Located in the heart of Salem, experience the city's vibrant downtown with restaurants, shops, parks and the PEM steps outside your door! Close to MBTA, Salem State and the waterfront. This bright unit features open concept living with hardwood/pine floors, high
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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