Are you considering moving to Salisbury MA? This charming coastal town offers a classic New England lifestyle, making it a great choice for families and retirees alike.
The history of Salisbury stretches back thousands of years before European settlement, with ancient burial sites dating as far back as 7,000 years. When English settlers arrived in 1638, the Pentucket and Pennacook tribes inhabited the area. Just two years later, in 1640, Salisbury was officially incorporated.
By the 1860s, Salisbury Beach had become a popular resort destination, drawing visitors with amusement parks, roller coasters, and a lively nightlife scene. Even today, the beach remains the area’s top attraction.
In the 20th century, Salisbury thrived as a hub of manufacturing and agriculture, known for its mills, slaughterhouses, and clothing production. Many historic buildings from the 17th century are still standing, including the John Sanders House, built in 1639—the town’s oldest surviving home.
Where Is Salisbury MA?
Salisbury, Massachusetts, is located in Essex County on the Atlantic coast, just south of the New Hampshire border and next to the towns of Amesbury and Newburyport. Part of the scenic North Shore of Massachusetts, Salisbury is a popular choice for people considering moving to Salisbury or looking to enjoy coastal New England living.
Parts of Salisbury make up the census-designated place (CDP) of Salisbury (CDP), which includes the coastal areas and town center but excludes Salisbury Plains and the western sections.
The drive from Salisbury MA to Boston MA is about 41 miles, while heading north along the coast, the drive from Salisbury MA to Portland ME, is around 79 miles. The route is scenic and filled with charming stops, making day trips easy and enjoyable.
To the south, the Merrimack River forms Salisbury’s border as it flows into the Atlantic Ocean. At the river’s mouth, the Salisbury Salt Marsh is a vibrant natural area teeming with wildlife.
Public transportation in Salisbury is provided by Merrimack Valley Transit, with bus routes connecting Salisbury to Amesbury and Newburyport. From Newburyport, the Newburyport/Rockport Line commuter rail line offers a direct connection to Boston. Still, for those living in Salisbury MA, having a car is very useful for everyday convenience.
Salisbury MA neighborhoods
The town of Salisbury is divided into several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character:
- Salisbury Beach – Vibrant and lively in the summer, quiet and peaceful in the off-season. The housing market is a mix of seasonal cottages, rental properties, and year-round homes.
- Town Center – The historic center of Salisbury, with buildings dating back to the early 19th century. Notable landmarks include the East Parish United Methodist Church, built in 1834, the Pike School, and the town library.
- Salisbury Plains – A suburban-style neighborhood known for higher-value homes and a quieter residential atmosphere.
- Browns Point & Rings Island – Stretching between the beach and town center down to the Merrimack River.
Salisbury MA Population and Demographics
The population living in Salisbury MA is 9,217 people, growing by 11% since 2010. A laid-back vibe makes it popular.
Demographic data for people living in Salisbury MA:
- 49% female and 51% male
- 13.2% of the population is younger than 18 years old, well below the national average of 21.7% Persons over 65 years old were 24.4%, above the national average at 17.7%
- Median age 48.4 years
- Median household income in Salisbury is $102,521
- Median home value is $450,100
- The racial and ethnic composition of people living in Salisbury MA, is 86% White, 6% Hispanic or Latino, 2% Asian, and 1% Black. 4.3% are foreign-born, versus 18.8% in Essex County
- 94.2% of the adult residents have graduated from high school, and 43.9% have a bachelor’s degree or higher
- The average household size is 2.3 persons, slightly lower than the national average household size of 2.54
Salisbury MA Crime Rate
How safe is Salisbury MA ?
Overall, living in Salisbury MA is generally considered safe. The town reports about 11 crimes per 1,000 residents, which is lower than the Massachusetts average of 13.6 per 1,000. Violent crime rates are 24% below both the national average and 9% below the Massachusetts average.
What’s encouraging is that Salisbury has seen less and less trouble over the years, with crime steadily declining and the small town maintaining its reputation as a friendly, tight-knit community.
Public safety is overseen by the Salisbury Police Department, which has a team of more than 20 officers dedicated to keeping residents safe.
Cost of Living in Salisbury MA
Can I afford living in Salisbury, MA? The recommended budget for a family of four in Essex County is around $136,942 which is above the national average. While real estate in the area is significantly more expensive, most other living costs are only slightly higher.
Salisbury itself has a few local shops, including grocery stores and a CVS, while nearby Amesbury and Newburyport offer many more shopping and dining options.
Typical Expenses Living in Salisbury MA*
- 1 meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $19.00
- 1 gallon of milk: $3.20
- Loaf of fresh white bread: $1.99
- 1 pound of apples: $1.26
- 1 pound of potatoes: $0.74
- 1 gallon of gasoline: $3.18
- Average Salisbury utilities per month: $188.57
Source: Numbeo
*Prices for Lowell, as statistics for Salisbury are not available.
Salisbury MA Real Estate
Is housing affordable when moving to Salisbury MA? The median home price in Salisbury is about $622.000 — above the national average of $438,357 but below the Massachusetts average of $729,900. The town offers a mix of new construction, empty plots, and older homes.
Currently, buyers can find two-bedroom homes under $600,000. The most expensive homes are beachfront properties with spectacular ocean views. Many properties are listed above $1.4 million. Currently, there is a good selection of Salisbury MA homes for sale.
View this post on Instagram
For rentals, most available homes are concentrated around Salisbury Beach. On average, expect to pay around $2,320 per month for homes for rent in Salisbury MA.
Weather Salisbury
Living in Salisbury MA, means enjoying a humid continental climate, with cold winters and warm, humid summers. The best time to visit is during the summer if you want to experience the town at its liveliest, when the seaside comes to life. July is the warmest month with average daily highs of around 80°F, while in January, average lows dip to about 22°F. Snow is common in the winter.
The most likely natural hazards in Salisbury include winter storms and flooding, which can also contribute to coastal erosion. During the past year, a major project was completed to reinforce the beach and protect it from erosion.
Things to Do in Salisbury
Salisbury, MA is primarily a safe and peaceful town with a strong sense of community. Residents enjoy a mix of cultural activities, rich historical heritage, and abundant natural areas to explore.
The town hosts community events throughout the year, especially in the summer, including a popular farmers’ market. Its close proximity to the sea is one of many reasons people decide for moving to Salisbury MA.
Salisbury Beach
The town’s main attraction is its miles of sandy beach and dunes. Families will enjoy spots like the Blue Ocean Music Hall, Winners Circle, and Joe’s Playland, which offer fun entertainment for all ages. The area also has plenty of restaurants, bars, and cafes that keep the beach lively in the summer—a great place for a stroll or a walk with your dog.
4 Ocean Front N, Salisbury, MA 01952, (978) 462-5888
Essex Coastal Scenic Byway
This scenic route stretches from Salisbury to Lynn, MA, offering beautiful coastal views, historic architecture, and plenty of attractions along the way.
10 Federal St #12, Salem, MA 01970, (978) 224-2036
Salisbury Beach State Reservation
Managed by the Salisbury Beach State Reservation, this area offers beaches, dunes, and marshes with excellent opportunities for boating, swimming, and fishing. There are also hiking and bike trails, perfect for checking out the local wildlife at the Salisbury Salt Marsh.
1 Beach Rd, Salisbury, MA 01952, (978) 462-4481
Salisbury Restaurants
Salisbury offers a wide variety of great restaurants, from fast food to seafood spots and lively bars. Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience, a casual meal, or a lively night out, you will find something exciting. Here are some favourites to explore:
Hungry Traveller
A beloved local spot known for its classic seafood and American fare. The prime rib receives excellent reviews.
98 Beach Rd, Salisbury, MA 01952, (978) 465-9743
Seaglass Restaurant and Lounge
Enjoy stunning beach and ocean views while dining on gourmet seafood in a modern, upscale setting—perfect for special occasions.
4 Ocean Front N, Salisbury, MA 01952, (978) 462-5800
The Deck
A laid-back spot for great food, drinks, and live music. Sip cocktails and soak in the summer buzz. It gets busy, so be prepared for a wait!
179 Bridge Rd, Salisbury, MA 01952, (978) 499-4422
View this post on Instagram
Private and Public Schools in Salisbury MA
Is living in Salisbury MA a good choice for families? Absolutely! With a great school, beachside living, and a warm, small-town vibe make it a wonderful place to raise kids.
The Triton Regional School District serves the area with an elementary school in Salisbury and a middle school and high school in Byfield.
At Salisbury Elementary School, students benefit from small class sizes and a favorable teacher-to-student ratio of 11:1. Middle and high schools are located in nearby towns, and Whittier Technical High School in Haverhill, about 10 miles from Salisbury, is another option. In addition to public schools, private schools are available in nearby Newburyport.
The modernized Salisbury Library also provides a vibrant learning environment and community hub for residents of Salisbury, MA.
Jobs in Salisbury MA
A majority of people living in Salisbury MA work in the public sector, with healthcare being the largest employment field, followed by education. The town posts available positions on the Salisbury MA jobs board, while smaller local businesses offering service and retail jobs can often be found on Indeed.
The median commute time for residents of Salisbury, MA is about 28.5 minutes, roughly in line with the Massachusetts average of 29.3 minutes. Overall, Essex County offers a dynamic job market with opportunities across various sectors. Located just 41 miles from Boston, Salisbury offers abundant job opportunities for commuters.
The average base salary in Salisbury MA is approximately $66,000 per year, which is about 25% below the state average.
Salisbury MA Statistics and Information
- Salisbury County: Essex, Massachusetts
- Salisbury area: 17.9 square miles
- Salisbury MA zip code: 01952
- Salisbury area code: 351 and978
- Salisbury time zone: Eastern Time Zone (UTC -4 and -5)
- The closest airport to Salisbury: Portsmouth International Airport, 20 miles from Salisbury.
Where is Salisbury Massachusetts?
Explore this map of Salisbury MA to find the most exciting things to do.
Thinking About Moving to Salisbury Massachusetts?
With affordable housing, scenic ocean views, and all the essentials nearby, Salisbury is an ideal place to live. Whether you’re retiring or relocating with your family to escape urban congestion, Salisbury could be your next home. When you’re ready to make the move, call top Salisbury MA movers, Mass Bay Movers at (978) 587-3775 for a free quote.
