Homes for Rent in New Salem, Phillipston

New Salem, located in central Massachusetts, is a rural community with a population of around 1,000 people, spanning 59 square miles. The town is known for its historic charm, featuring 18th-century meeting houses and antique clapboard homes with views of the Quabbin Reservoir. The New Salem Museum & Academy of Fine Art, opened in 2023, showcases contemporary realist art, while the 1794 Meetinghouse serves as a performing arts venue. The New Salem Public Library offers a mini art gallery and internet access. Outdoor attractions include the 1,100-acre New Salem State Forest, which provides opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and fishing. The Bears Den Waterfall is a popular spot for picnics and relaxation. Despite its scenic beauty, New Salem lacks restaurants and grocery stores, with the New Salem General Store being the only place for basic provisions and fresh baked goods. For more extensive shopping, residents travel about 10 miles north to Orange. The town's housing includes Colonials, Cape Cods, and one-story homes, with prices ranging from $250,000 to $500,000. Many residents are retirees or professors commuting to nearby colleges in Amherst. Younger students attend the highly rated Swift River School, while older students go to Ralph C. Mahar Regional School. New Salem is accessible via Route 202 and is 40 miles from Worcester and 75 miles from Boston.