Welcome to Salem
Salem, famously known as the "Witch City," is a vibrant coastal town rich in history, arts, and culture. While its witch trial legacy draws tourists from around the globe, Salem offers so much more, including a thriving food scene, waterfront beauty, and a strong sense of community. It’s an ideal location for families, young professionals, and history buffs seeking a dynamic yet livable town.
Search PropertiesNeighborhood Snapshot
Located just 16 miles north of Boston, Salem offers easy access to the city while maintaining a small-town feel.
Salem combines historic charm with modern amenities. Residents enjoy picturesque streets, waterfront parks, and a dynamic downtown filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Salem was once one of the wealthiest cities in America due to its prominence as a global shipping hub during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Education
Schools
Public:
Salem Public Schools include Bentley Academy Innovation School and Salem High School.
Private:
Nearby private schools include The Phoenix School and St. John’s Preparatory School.
Colleges:
The Salem Public Library and Salem State University offer enrichment programs and community resources for all ages.
Get Your GuidePrice Comparison
Average Prices
Back Bay:
$5,000,000+
Beacon Hill:
$4,000,000+
South End:
$2.5M - $4M
Seaport:
$1,000,000
Fenway-Kenmore:
$2,000,000+
Charlestown:
$2.5M - $4M
Salem Arts Festival
- When: Annually in June
- Why It Stands Out: This free, family-friendly festival transforms downtown Salem into a dynamic celebration of the arts. It features juried gallery exhibitions, live performances, a bustling street fair, interactive art-making activities, and the popular Mural Slam competition, drawing over 8,000 attendees annually.
Salem Heritage Days
- When: Annually in August
- Why It Stands Out: A week-long celebration of Salem's history and community spirit, Heritage Days offers a variety of events including food tastings, live music, comedy shows, and family-friendly activities, all produced by local organizations and the City of Salem.
Salem Haunted Happenings
- When: October 1–31, annually
- Why It Stands Out: As the world's largest Halloween celebration, Haunted Happenings attracts over half a million visitors each October. The month-long event features parades, vendor fairs, haunted houses, walking tours, and various themed festivities that embrace Salem's spooky legacy.
Holiday Stroll Weekend
- When: Salem Farmers' Market
- Why It Stands Out: Thursdays, June through October Why It Stands Out: Dating back to 1634, the Salem Farmers' Market is a cherished tradition held in Derby Square. It features over 30 local vendors offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and live entertainment, fostering a strong sense of community and supporting local agriculture.
Community
Events
Kimberlee's Top Tips For Salem Living
For Buyers:
- Focus on neighborhoods like The Point, North Salem, or Historic Downtown if walkability, charm, and access to restaurants and shops are top priorities.
- For quieter, more residential living, consider South Salem or the Salem Willows area—both offer scenic views and a strong sense of community.
- Pay attention to historic properties: many come with character and potential tax benefits through Salem’s historic preservation programs, but may also require maintenance planning.
For Investors:
- Salem’s year-round tourism, college presence (Salem State University), and walkable downtown create steady demand for long-term rentals, especially in multifamily properties near the commuter rail.
- Two- and three-family homes in neighborhoods like North Salem or Bridge Street Neck are ideal for buy-and-hold strategies.
- Consider investing in properties near downtown or the waterfront, where ongoing revitalization efforts and arts-driven development increase long-term appreciation potential.
Ready to Make Salem Your Home?
Embrace a one-of-a-kind blend of coastal charm, rich history, and year-round cultural energy. Contact Kimberlee Meserve and the Street Property Team today to schedule a consultation or tour available properties.
Kindly complete the form to get your complimentary guide to Salem.
